'Pokemon Go' release date news: new footage teases gameplay, creation of characters and how Pokemon are caught

First look at "Pokemon GO" Niantic/The Pokemon Company

The "Pokemon Go" beta has launched in Australia, and as stated in a report from Dual Shockers, it did not take long for gameplay footage to be released online. The leaked 10-minuted footage of the game's field test comes from Youtube user Darkathion, who showcases how the game handles character creation, egg hatching, and Pokemon catching.

The video reveals that the character creation is a little bit more robust when compared to what gamers are accustomed to with the main "Pokemon" titles. The game allows the player to choose between a male or female avatar and then may continue deciding on the design and colors of their clothing.

Once this is done the player is then brought directly to the map screen which utilizes GPRS technology to properly place the avatar in the real-life world map. From there the phone will reveal where local gyms are located and will show images of nearby Pokemon that the player can catch.

Catching Pokemon appears to be precision-based as the player in the video needs to tap the screen at the right place and time to make sure that the thrown ball will hit the target. If this is done right then the Pokemon will enter the Poke Ball. It is undetermined yet if, like the main games, there are factors that may allow a Pokemon to break free.

Combat is also showcased a little bit yet as stated in a report from RPGFan it appears that the player has no direct control over their Pokemon while fighting. Instead, it seems as if the Pokemon will randomly execute moves from its move list until one of the opposing forces is defeated. 

Egg hatching is also shown and it is tied to the user walking a certain distance, similar to how it was in the original Game Boy games. 

"Pokemon Go" has no specified release date but it is expected to launch globally within the year.

News
Indian Christians denounces crackdown on property
Indian Christians denounces crackdown on property

There has been an alleged crackdown on Christian buildings providing services for the most vulnerable in society.

Belgian broadcaster apologises over video showing destruction of Christian statues
Belgian broadcaster apologises over video showing destruction of Christian statues

A Belgian radio station has apologised after a video segment showing presenters smashing statues of Jesus and the Virgin Mary drew criticism and sparked questions about respect for Christian beliefs.

Boko Haram kills 10 Christians in northeast Nigeria
Boko Haram kills 10 Christians in northeast Nigeria

Members of Islamic extremist group Boko Haram on Monday killed at least 10 Christians in an attack on a village in Borno state, Nigeria, sources said.

King Charles faces criticism for declining to issue Easter message
King Charles faces criticism for declining to issue Easter message

King Charles' decision not to release an Easter message this year has been criticised by some Christians.