Surprise! The Pokémon Company has launched a free new pocket monster-themed smartphone game for iPhone and Android: Pokémon Duel.
While augmented reality smash hit Pokémon Go had players hunting for creatures in the real world, Pokémon Dual is a bit more of a conventional smartphone game. The game takes some of the franchise's hallmarks - collecting new creatures, teams of six, turn-based battles - and twists them into a board game.
In order to win a round, you'll have to move your team of six monsters around a board and land one on your opponent's goal, while your opponent tries to do the same. Players can block each other's Pokémon, which in turn results in a battle.
While the board game aspect of Pokémon Dual requires wits, team composition is just as important. Just like in the classic Game Boy games, different Pokémon have different attributes; some can move further, some have stronger attacks, for example. Individual Pokémon can also be levelled up as you play.
A round of Pokémon Dual is just a few minutes long. You're able to play online against other players, but there's also a single-player quest mode. Due to the game's online component, you'll need an active internet connection whenever you play.
While Pokémon Duel is free-to-play, it's supported by in-app purchases. You can spend real world money on gems that let you buy extra boosters, but you're also able earn these just by playing (although at a slower rate).
Pokémon Duel is available as a free download for both iOS and Android.
Alex Choros
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