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
POKEMONSLotadHave the Game Boy Advance Pokemon Sapphire game in the cartridge slot and search for Lotad at Route 203, Route 204, Route 205 north, and Route 212 South.
LucarioRiolu will only evolve into Lucario if it is happy with you and it levels up in the day time.
Lucario: EggAfter getting a mysterious egg from Riley and to hatch it as soon as possible, you need a certain amount of steps. Clear your step counter and move 6,535 steps. After that, you will see it hatch.
LunatoneHave the Game Boy Advance Pokemon Sapphire game in the cartridge slot and search for Lunatone at Lake Verity surroundings, Lake Verity, Lake Acuity, Lake Valdor, Mountt Coronet, Spring Path, and Turnback Cave.
Here's a video of this game: