If you loved taking your Pokémon for walks before, Nintendo has a newly announced gadget on its way to "Pokémon HeartGold" and "Pokémon SoulSilver" boxes in March that may convince you to extend your morning walking commute. The existence of the Pokéwalker hasn't been a well guarded secret in recent months, but the Pokéball-shaped pedometer now has some official details available that explain how it will communicate with the DS and reward off-screen pedestrians.
In addition to allowing the wireless transfer of individual Pokémon with "HeartGold" and "SoulSilver" and items exchanges among players, the Pokéwalker will rack up "Watts" for its user, according to a press release. Those Watts can then be used to unlock routes and special Pokémon versions that appear in-game. The Pokémon being stored in the Pokéwalker can benefit, as well, earning experience points based on a user's step counts.
If you miss your Giga Pet from '90s, this little doodad should fill a whole in your pocket, as its LCD screen is oddly reminiscent of those supped-up key chains. At its heart, though, the Pokéwalker comes as the latest attempt to encourage off-the-couch activity while still being engaged in a gaming experience, which parents of aspiring couch potatoes will appreciate.
Do you think the Pokéwalker will help you beef up your critters any quicker? Would you walk an extra five or six blocks to gain a level for your Vulpix? Sound off in the comment section below.