Pokemon Diamond and Pearl’s U.S. release date is just looming across the horizon, and fans of the franchise just can’t wait for it. Nintendo has recently issued a press release that ought to drive this rabid group of Pokemon lovers even wilder with news that players will be able to chat with one another before, after, as well as during the battle as long as they remain connected to one another. This function will only be made available to players who have exchanged assigned friend codes, ensuring your child/ward remains safe.

This chat feature is not limited to just two people, as up to eight different trainers will be able to connect and play. In addition to chatting, both titles boast the ability to trade Pokemon with one another via the Global Trade Station as long as they’re connected to Nintendo’s Wi-Fi connection. Trainers who have registered their player data in the Wi-Fi Battle Dome will be able to battle with up to seven other registered trainers, where more victories equals to a higher ranking.

Looks like all the trash talking from the playground can now be ported over to the digital realm, and I suspect that this feature will definitely bring more gamers to the DS fold. After all, who knows but some people might just be crazy (and cheapskate) enough to set up a Pokemon game just to chat with one another from another state instead of using other more civilized means such as Skype and other IM programs. Whatever the case is, North America (and the rest of the English speaking world) will be looking forward to both Diamond and Pearl’s release.

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