Turn-based RPG where you catch, train, and battle creatures across the Sinnoh region. You'll build a team from over 400 species (107 new to this generation), fight in gym battles to earn badges, and work toward completing a regional encyclopedia of monsters. Combat uses a rock-paper-scissors type system with elemental strengths and weaknesses. Between story battles against a criminal syndicate, you can enter Pokémon Contests—timed rhythm challenges that judge your team's appeal rather than raw power. Trading with other players is required to fill out the full creature catalog, since certain species only appear in the paired Diamond Version. Dual-screen DS interface lets you manage party stats on one display while exploring towns and routes on the other. Expect 30+ hours for the main campaign, more if you're hunting rare encounters.
