Pokemon Black and White to feature PC connectivity, rankings, other web-based goodies

Did we hear someone say "Pokemon MMO"?

No, no, we didn't. But this looks to be the next best thing. Sort of. Maybe the next, next, next best thing.

Nintendo's announced that Pokemon Black and White will be able to sync with your PC via the Internet, so as to show the world that you really want to be the very best, like no one ever was. But let's be honest here: to catch them is your real test - to train them is your cause. Fortunately, Pokemon Global Link - as it's known - will allow you to "befriend additional Pokemon" and play minigames that "enable Pokemon and items to be transferred back into Pokemon Black and White." And you won't even have to travel across the land, searching far and wide!

There's also the Global Battle Union, which - in addition to being something of an oxymoron - keeps track of how you've fared against other players and hands you a corresponding worldwide rank. Depending on your level of Poke-mastery, you may even be invited to compete in live tournaments and things of the like.

And who knows? Maybe it's better that a Pokemon MMO doesn't exist anyway. After all, there's more to life than forcing tiny creatures into lives of gladiatorial servitude - despite the Pokemon theme song's inspiring, heartfelt claims to the contrary.

Thanks, Joystiq.