Game Freak, best known for the Pokémon series, has surprised fans with the release of a new adventure RPG, Pand Land, exclusively in Japan for Android and iOS. This isn't their first foray outside the Pokémon franchise; 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 Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl remakes, Game Freak has still 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 like Pand Land is a positive step, benefiting both Game Freak and players. In Pand Land, players are expedition captains exploring the expansive world of Pandoland, searching for treasure. The game offers a relaxed exploration experience, complemented by combat encounters and dungeons, playable solo or with friends in multiplayer mode.
Limited Release: Japan Only (For Now)
Currently, Pand Land is only available in Japan. While there's no confirmed international release date, Game Freak clearly sees it as a significant project. In the official announcement from WonderPlanet, Game Freak development director Yuji Saito emphasized their goal of creating a console-scale game with accessible mobile gameplay.
Pokémon fans can rest assured: Pand Land won't impact the development of the highly anticipated Pokémon Legends: Z-A, slated for release next year. Details on Pokémon Legends: Z-A are scarce, but the popularity of its predecessor generates considerable excitement.