Like Skylanders before it and Disney Infinity this summer (but not June 1, as originally predicted; it’s been pushed to August 18), the upcoming Pokémon Scramble U will be a game for Nintendo’s Wii U console which interacts with physical toys outfitted with NFC technology.
NFC, or Near Field Communications [covered in the November 14, 2012 TecTiles geek-out] is the low-power communication protocol which will allow the Pokémon figures to “talk” to the NFC receiver on the Wii U’s GamePad controller, thereby affecting gameplay.
Presumably, placing the Pikachu figure onto the GamePad will allow you to play as the li’l electro-mouse and zap everyone around you with shocking cuteness.
The first set of toys (pictured) features Bulbasaur, Pikachu, Torchic, Piplup, Lucario, Victini, and one yet-to-be discovered “secret” Pokémon.
It comes out April 24 in Japan, with no North American release date confirmed yet. =) Bud
