Pokemon Diamond and Pokemon Pearl, or Pocket Monsters Diamond/Pearl, as it is known in Japan, is a role-playing game franchise developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo exclusively for its hugely-popular Nintendo DS handheld gaming console. Of the Pokemon RPG series, Pokemon Platinum has also been recently released. Based on the world famous Pokemon anime series, it was first launched in its native Japan on September 28, 2006, and reached North American and European shores on April 22, and July 27, 2007, respectively.
Both Pokemon Diamond and Pokemon Pearl are set in the fictional world of Sinnoh, which is the habitat of 493 different species of Pokemons, a special type of animals that possess different kinds of powers that can be used in the fight against their enemies. As all Pokemon stories, this title documents the journey of a young trainer who needs to raise and battle Pokemons, all of this while investigating a criminal organization that wants to hurt the creatures.
Features such as Internet play, via the Nintendo Wi-Fi connection, or changes to the gameplay and battle mechanics are also present in the title, which aims at giving a fresh new experience to Pokemon fans all across the world. Older concepts such as Pokemon contests are also introduced, in order to bring back the old fans of the anime series and older video games.
The game has received positive reviews, with critics praising the Wi-Fi features, which enable players to engage in some interesting battles, and the gameplay that, although being based on almost the same principles as older titles, has managed to offer an entertaining experience. Sales have been very good, with the game shipping around 15 million units worldwide, thanks to the big number of Pokemon fans out there.
HINTS
POKEMONS
Azlef After battling and quelling Dialga or Palkia, the three legendary Pokemon will be scattered around Sinnoh. The Blue Pokemon in the trio is positioned in Lake Valor. You battle it here and it is only here once. Make sure to save. It is at level 50.
Bonsly (in Pokemon Diamond) – To get Bonsly, you must trade it from Pokemon Pearl. – Talk to the person in the Pokemon Mansion after you get the National Dex. A random rare Pokemon will appear every day. One of them may be Bonsly.
Bronzor Defeat the Elite Four and get the National Dex. Go to Spring Path and head to the right. Go up, then left, where you can use Rock Climb. When you get down, there will be a hole. Head in and look around until you find Bronzor.
Caterpie Have the Pokemon Fire Red Game Boy Advance game in the cartridge slot and search for Caterpie at Route 204 south.