New content for the free-to-play MOBA Pokémon Unite will feature fan-favorite Pokémon including Blastoise, Gardevoir, and other mystery creatures. The game released earlier this month on Nintendo Switch, and Pokémon Unite will be available on mobile devices in September.
Pokémon Unite is a 5v5 multiplayer online battle arena video game that is free to download but does contain microtransactions. Players must choose their fighter to take down opponents and score goals before the timer runs out. Unlike other MOBAs on the market, such as DOTA 2 or League of Legends, Pokémon Unite matches take place in just 10 minutes, instead of the typical 30-40 usually seen from the genre. The game will support crossplay between Switch and mobile devices when the mobile version of the game launches later this year, giving the chance for players to play Pokémon Unite without needing a Switch console.
The official Pokémon Unite Twitter account has confirmed that the roster of fighters will soon be growing with the upcoming addition of three new Pokémon. Gen I's Water-type starter evolution Blastoise and Gen III's Psychic/Fairy-type fan favorite Gardevoir will be added to the game at some point in the future, though a specific release date for either has not yet been announced. Pokémon Unite has also teased future additions to the game, with a mystery Pokémon also confirmed to be coming soon. Pokémon Unite players have been advised to stay tuned to the game's social media channels for more details.
Gamers might recognize the Blastoise revealed in the teaser image, as Pokémon Unite suffered from leaks following its Japan-only beta earlier this summer. A number of Pokémon Unite skins were revealed including a very gentlemanly Blastoise complete with tailored vest, hat, and pocket square. Other skins uncovered by the leak are already in the newly-released game, including Beach-Style Snorlax, who has a pool ring and a fashionable pair of star-shaped sunglasses. While there's no word on when players can expect to see all of the leaked skins in the game, it hopefully won't be long until they're available.
Pokémon Unite has already seen criticism for its inclusion of microtransactions, which some players feel are too heavy-handed. While cosmetics are expected to come at a price in free-to-play games, Pokémon Unite features multiple monetization strategies, something which has been met with controversy not just because of items that can be seen as pay-to-win, but also because of the young demographic Pokémon typically caters to. The developer has not responded to claims of aggressive microtransactions.
Pokémon Unite is available now on Nintendo Switch and will come to mobile this September.
Source: Pokémon Unite/Twitter