Pokemon X and Y

Two of the oddball Pokémon from the earliest days of the series, Electabuzz and Magmar, are going to be making their debut in Pokémon X and Y, and the only way to get them will be through a store promotion.

From April 11, all American gamers have to do is ask for the Nintendo 3DS download code on their receipt at any EB Games, JB Hifi and Target stores. With that code, you'll be able to enter it into the game to claim your Pokémon. Simple as that.

Pokémon X owners will be able to claim Magmar, and Pokémon Y trainers have Electabuzz as their choice. Both Pokémon come equipped with the item necessary to make them evolve, so you'll have to trade with a friend to make that happen. I had no idea Electabuzz and Magmar even could evolve, so that shows how far behind I am on my Pokémon lore.

Back in the early days, the two were distinct for being exclusive to either the Blue or Red version of the game. Neither were able to evolve, both had only a single and very common element, both had the same body structures, and they didn't seem to have any connection or relationship to other Pokémon in the game. This "after thought" image gave them an extra mystique. I wonder how they'll look in the latest game.

UK players will be able to pick up the code at any GAME store.

It's a shame there is no Target in Japan. Boy oh boy, my parents are going to be embarrassed to be asking the store clerk at Target for a Pokémon code.

"Oh how cute. I had to get a code for my son, too? How old is he? Six? Seven?"

"He's 29"

"…oh, here you are. Thank you."

Oh, I can't wait to hear the report. Be sure to pick up Magmar and Electabuzz on April 11 at participating stores. Codes must be redeemed by Sept. 30.