Pokemon franchise approaches 150 million games sold. Newest Pokemon game launched Oct. 3 with novel storyline.

REDMOND, Wash., Oct. 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Pokemon has not only proved itself as a leader in the video game industry, but it also has become an obsession for millions of zealous fans. Pokemon has spawned more than $15 billion in worldwide retail sales, while the franchise is on the verge of selling its

150 millionth game worldwide. Without fail, every new Pokemon game sells more than 1 million, while the legacy has grown in the United States since its introduction in 1998. But the newest game speaks for itself -- Pokemon(R) XD: Gale of Darkness launched Oct. 3 for Nintendo GameCube and is the next step on the ladder of success for Pokemon. As fans have grown up, so has
the game.

The role-playing game brings with it nearly 40 hours of game play and a fantastic new storyline. The legendary Lugia tragically has been turned into Shadow Lugia: the ultimate Shadow Pokemon that supposedly can't be purified. The evil organization Cipher is dedicated to world domination and uses Shadow Lugia to steal a Pokemon-carrying cargo ship. Now players must snag and purify the Shadow Pokemon, saving them from a life of evil deeds.

The game is inundated with fascinating and original features: Players can use a new method to help purify up to nine Pokemon at once in the Purify Chamber. Taking full advantage of the Purify Chamber means building up a collection of purified Pokemon to place around the Shadow Pokemon: the more the Pokemon, the faster the purification.

Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness also runs deep with inventive game-play components. The option-rich Vs. Mode allows players to compete in extreme 3-D battles with their favorite Pokemon. A mini-game called Battle Bingo appeals to players of all ages. It's much like real bingo: Players must fill in their card squares by battling Pokemon.

In addition, the game is highlighted by great battles, astonishing graphics and mind-boggling effects. For Pokemon loyalists, Nintendo resourcefully incorporates the Game Boy Advance by offering players the ability to import their preferred Pokemon and watch them battle in full 3-D on Nintendo GameCube -- the Vs. Mode allows players to import all their Game Boy Advance Pokemon from games like Pokemon Ruby, Pokemon Sapphire, Pokemon FireRed, Pokemon LeafGreen and Pokemon Emerald. The craving for Pokemon continues to escalate with Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, which is Rated E for Everyone.

Jason's Comments: I bought the first two games in the series, but I haven't touched the franchse since then.