Sixteen years ago, an electric mouse became a defining symbol of childhood for a generation. Since that time, Pokémon has gone on to spawn 56 video games, 17 television shows, 11 comic book series, and 59 collectible card game sets. That’s aside from the countless toys, plush dolls, board games and the theme park in Japan.  

There’s more than one mouse with his own theme park, it seems.

I am a Pokéfan. I’ve played nearly all 56 video games. This Saturday, I was among the first to receive my copies of both “Pokémon Black 2” and “Pokémon White 2.”

If you’ve been in a coma since 1996, allow me to catch you up. The principal goal in Pokémon is to capture and train monsters, and battle against them competitively. You work your way up a competition ladder to eventually become the best Pokémon trainer in your region.

So, what’s new in this edition? The storyline is a direct sequel to the “Black and White” series—the first time there has been a direct sequel. The main action takes place two years after the end of the previous games, and it does feel like a natural extension of the story, as opposed to simple laziness.

Also new is Pokéstar Studios, where you can create films featuring your Pokémon written, directed and starring you.

If you are a Pokéfan, I’m probably preaching to the choir. You were likely in line behind me with your copy on Saturday. For those of you who might have forgotten how much fun Pokémon can be, maybe these new games will send you on a new quest to defeat the Elite Four.