'Pokemon Sun and Moon' news, features, release date: Buddy system enhanced in recent titles

"Pokemon Sun and Moon," Nintendo's latest installments for their well-loved role-playing game franchise, was launched on Nov. 18 exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS. Though the newest titles maintain the traditional elements that make the franchise popular, the games have brought in significant changes to the series as well.

In the popular animated series, the bond between the trainer and his Pokemon friends were always emphasized. This, however, wasn't highlighted as much in several "Pokemon" video games in the past. Instead of having Pokemon as buddies, they seemed as if they were simply pawns that were part of a strong army that players were trying to build. Along with the introduction of the buddy system in the mobile app "Pokemon Go," the latest titles have implemented a way for trainers to bond with the creatures they catch.

In a review by Wired, the publication emphasized the difference in gameplay between the previous titles and the latest "Pokemon Sun and Moon" games. According to the news outlet, in preceding versions of the game, players go on an adventure in which they will always be subjected to one-on-one encounters with characters. Meanwhile, the latest games won't take place in endurance-based environments. The news outlet noted that anywhere in the Alola region, players will meet friendly locals who will offer to heal their Pokemon.

Wired believes that the change in gameplay could also be due to the change in setting. In the Alola region, which is based on the Pacific Islander culture, the community is laid-back and the locals are friendly. Unlike the past titles, Pokemon will not ask their trainers to clean them up after fights, treat them when they are sick, etc.

Furthermore, "Pokémon Sun"and "Pokémon Moon" now offers traditional and simplified Chinese, another first for the series. The games also feature Pokemon Bank support, allowing players to transfer their creatures from other titles in the franchise, including "Pokemon Red," "Pokemon Blue," and "Pokemon Yellow" among others.