What It Is

These two games for Game Boy Color are the long-awaited follow-ups to the Red, Yellow and Blue versions. Among the advanced features of these games are pre-evolved Pokémon and day and night modes. (Bet you didn’t know there were nocturnal Pokémons!) The game also includes strategy tips as well as a Pokémon cell phone and much more to keep kids endlessly entertained.

Why It’s Fun

The magic of all the Pokémon products is in the storyline–and the quest to collect all the creatures and become a Master Pokémon Trainer. This classic quest story has enough depth and detail to keep older kids deeply involved in the strategy of the game and enough action to entertain younger kids.

Who’s Going to Love It

If what happened in Japan is any indication, every kid who’s enjoyed playing Pokémon on Game Boy Color is going to be intrigued and delighted by these games. There is a lot of demand for the next installment in this story from the core players, and there’s already lots of buzz about the story and the characters. And, adults, don’t worry if you don’t "get it." Pokémon is a classic tale of adventure and heroism–with about 200 kinds of odd critters running around.

What to Be Aware Of

This is going to be one of the hottest games of the holiday season. Nintendo is predicting that it will sell more than one million copies of these games. Many stores are taking pre-orders, which may be a good idea closer to the holidays if supplies become limited.