A Closer Look at the World of Pokémon X and Y [Article]

Yesterday we got some news from Japan about the Pokémon franchise's highly anticipated 3DS entries - and today that news finally made its way West (along with a few extra tidbits). This October PokéManiacs worldwide will be introduced to the star-shaped Kalos region, which you can see in the map below.

Welcome to the Kalos region, home of fighting pandas.

One of the locations within Kalos will be called Lumiose City, a thriving metropolis that just screams "tourist attraction" - complete with an Eiffel Tower-like structure, a bustling downtown area, and a Roselia fountain (which you can see in the video at the bottom of the page). Check out some concept art for Lumiose City below.

You know Kalos is based on France because that woman in the bottom left has tall bread.

Pika! Chuuuuu!

But what of the pocket monsters?! By the good grace of Arceus, it was officially confirmed that the awesome goat/ram thing players can now ride is indeed called Gogoat. This Grass-type monster is classified as a "Riding Pokémon," and can learn the move Horn Leech to recover HP equal to half the damage it deals in battle.

Gogoat confirmed!!

That Fighting-type panda will be called Pancham. It can learn a new move called Parting Shot, which lowers an opponent’s Attack and Special Attack, while also allowing the trainer to switch out Pancham for another Pokémon during battle.

So much attitude for such a tiny panda.

The Normal- and Flying-type birdie is called Fletchling. It knows the Fire-type move Flame Charge, which raises Fletchling’s Speed while unleashing a fire wave of damage.

Adorable... yet lethal.

Last but not least, the Electric- and Normal-type lizard is called Helioptile, which is apparently cowardly by nature and generates energy through sunbathing. It knows a new move called Parabolic Charge, which allows it to attack all surrounding monsters at the same time and restores its HP by half the damage given.

Its ears! So floppy!!

We were also treated to a closer look at the new trainers. It looks like you now have three hair and skin color options to choose from.

Finally, take a gander at the official box art for these games.

Without further ado, take a look at the exciting new trailer for Pokémon X and Y!