Recruiting Warriors and Pokémon

Unification Stage: Plan party movements on a map of Japan. Each character has one action per turn (one month). A maximum of six characters can be stationed in a castle. AI can manage armies in conquered castles, but the protagonist requires manual control.

Battle Stage: When challenging or being challenged, battles occur on a specialized grid. Up to six generals/Pokémon per side can fight. Use Warrior Skills (once per battle) and equipment for advantages.

Pokémon Linking: Build compatibility ('Link') with Pokémon by visiting towns or fighting wild Pokémon. Tame wild Pokémon in battle to switch or obtain multiple Links. Compatibility is shown by bronze, silver, or gold medals; 'X' means no link possible. Each character has a 'Best Link Pokémon' for 100% linkage.

Evolution: Pokémon evolve similarly to the main series, with Evolutionary Stones carrying over. Characters also change appearance based on Link percentage with their Pokémon partner. The protagonist has three forms based on strength; Warlords have two or three ranks.

Battle Mechanics: Pokémon elemental weaknesses and special abilities from the main series apply. Special abilities can create advantages. Group attacks can hit allies. Stage gimmicks and treasures offer bonuses.

Energy: A Pokémon's Energy (willpower) affects performance, indicated by colored arrows. Low energy can be restored by resting or eating ponigiri in castle towns.

Recruitment: Over 197 Pokémon can be obtained in-game. Others are available via passwords from merchandise or events. Downloadable bonus scenarios and events allow recruitment of more characters and obtaining additional Pokémon.