New Details Announced for Pokemon: Let’s Go: HMs, New Moves, and Gameplay

As we get closer to the holiday video game season, we continue to uncover more info regarding Pokémon: Lets Go Pikachu! and Pokémon: Lets Go Evee! This week, news came in the form of new gameplay footage and information announced on the weekly Japanese variety-show, Pokénchi. Pokémon news source Serebii breaks down some of the exciting news and game-footage revealed during the show. Through this news, alongside other information we have received regarding the title, we are beginning to understand what the newest installation of the Pokémon franchise holds   ̶̶ welcome news for many fans who are curious about this mold-breaking iteration of the series.

 Pokémon: Let’s GO supports Pokémon Go cross functionality

The most notable information revealed is the changes being made to the HM system. The upcoming title will not adhere to the traditional HM system, which restricted a player’s team building strategy by forcing permanent move selections on Pokémon. These moves, such as cut and surf, were necessary to traverse the environment but not always the best choice for battling. Now, HM moves will not occupy one of the four move-slots a Pokémon has available. Instead, both Evee and Pikachu can traverse the terrain through hidden techniques: Diagonal Cut and Water Walk.

Game-footage released during this show also highlights new moves coming to the game. One of these moves is Pikachu’s Splash Surf, a Water-Type attack which shows Pikachu hopping on a surfboard – A nod to fans who have seen Pikachu do the same in the franchise’s anime, video game, and trading card game. Alongside Pikachu’s Splash Surf, Evee will learn the new Fire-Type move Flare Burn.

Pokémon: Let’s Go is the second Pokémon title coming to the switch, and the first in the franchise’s traditional RPG format. With a more causal game system and Pokémon Go integration, this game is a unique take on the series’ often formulaic approach.

While the game does not release until November 16, we are sure to see more news on the title. Stay tuned to LoadingXP for more updates!

Travis Williamson

Travis is a gamer, writer, and cat lover from the greater Pittsburgh area. While he is a multi-genre gamer, there is a special place in his heart for fighting games - particularly the Super Smash Bros. franchise. Outside of gaming, Travis enjoys embarking on pizza and Rupaul’s Drag Race benders.