Pokémon Black and White 2 has new map, characters

Upcoming Pokémon sequels Black 2 and White 2 will feature new main characters and a number of fresh locations to explore.

Set two years on from the original Black and White, the new DS sequels see the Unova region partly covered in ice, forcing the action into new areas of the map.

New playable characters, gym leaders and a new rival will feature, while the game's events kick off in a fresh location, Hiougi City, Serebii reports.

The sequels will focus on the legendary ice Pokémon Kyurem, likely the cause of the region's recent temperature drop.

Black 2 and White 2 are set to launch first in Japan on 23rd June. The games will get an "autumn 2012" release in the UK.