Pokemon Studio Releases New Game That\'s Not Pokemon

Game Freak, best known for the Pokémon franchise, has surprised fans with the release of its new title, Pand Land, in Japan. This adventure RPG, available on Android and iOS, sees players exploring a vibrant world in search of treasure. This isn't Game Freak's first foray outside Pokémon; titles like Little Town Hero and HarmoKnight have also garnered attention.

Given recent criticism of some Pokémon games due to shorter development cycles, Pand Land's release might seem unexpected. While ILCA handled the 2021 Gen 4 remakes, Game Freak has concurrently released Pokémon Legends: Arceus, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, and the Gen 9 DLC since early 2022, with another major Pokémon title in development.

The creation of a completely new IP is a positive step for both Game Freak and gamers. In Pand Land, players become expedition captains exploring the vast, oceanic world of Pandoland, seeking treasure at their own pace. The game offers a relaxing experience combined with combat and dungeons, playable solo or with friends in multiplayer mode.

Currently Japan-Only Release

Currently, Pand Land is only available in Japan. While no international release date has been announced, this doesn't preclude future global availability. Game Freak clearly considers Pand Land a significant project, as development director Yuji Saito stated in the official announcement (via publisher WonderPlanet), "We've been working hard to create a game that takes the scale of a console game and makes it easy and simple to play."

Pokémon fans can rest assured; Pand Land's development hasn't impacted the highly anticipated Pokémon Legends: Z-A, slated for release next year. Details on this upcoming title remain scarce, but the predecessor's popularity has generated considerable excitement.