[HTML2]

Despite the fact that Pokemon X and Y are still relatively recent core installments in the Pocket Monster franchise, gamers are chomping at the bit for another adventure. Fans will get just that later this November in the form of remakes of Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire — two titles that originally debuted during the Game Boy Advance era.

While the pair of upcoming 3DS titles are remakes of the original GBA games, Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire will feature a number of new features for those that have already experienced the originals. One of the biggest additions the series has seen since the originals is the addition of Mega Evolutions, and that's a battle mechanic that will carry over into the revamped versions.

So far fans have been treated to Mega Evolutions for each of the three starter Pokemon in the new games, and now The Pokemon Company has announced three more Mega Evolutions that'll be making their debut. These Mega-ified monsters will be none other than Salamence, Lopunny and Altaria, but (as many trainers already know) these Pokemon will gain much more than just a new appearance upon Mega Evolving.

For example, Mega Lopunny will be awarded increased Attack and Speed stats during battles. Meanwhile Salamence will be on the receiving end of a Defense boost, and Mega Altaria will change its type to Dragon/Fairy and score Attack, Special Attack and mild Defense boosts. Each monster will also be able to Mega Evolve during Pokemon Contests, which will help them in their overall score with the CPU judges.

Last but not least, it's been announced that anyone that picks up either Pokemon Omega Ruby or Alpha Sapphire near launch will be able to download a shiny Beldum. Similar promotions have occurred in the past, the most recent being Torchic for Pokemon X and Y owners, so this offer doesn't come as a surprise. Like the aforementioned Torchic, Beldum will also be holding a Mega Stone which it can use to transform into Mega Metagross once it has evolved into its third and final form.

Everything seems to be coming together in the build up to Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire's release, and there will likely be even more announcements made between now and the games' arrival. While much is changing, however, there are some features that longtime fans will be elated to see make their return. Secret Bases will without a doubt be a major point for fans of the original games to gravitate to, while the return of contests is another cool aspect for gamers to sink their teeth into after the main campaign comes to a close.

Heck, the costumes for Pikachu even carry over into actual battles and they bring unique moves with them. Whether the electric mouse is decked our in Luchador garb and utilizing its Flying Press attack or Rock Star apparel and busting out Meteor Smash, gamers will definitely be having fun customizing the franchise's mascot for their own personal gain.

___

Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire will hit the Nintendo 3DS on November 21, 2014.

Follow Riley on Twitter @TheRileyLittle.