Pokemon Sword and Shield have officially released in Japan today, as it’s now November 15, 2019 in Japan.

To celebrate the launch, game director Shigeru Ohmori shared a message and piece of artwork with his fans. Check it out below (translated by NintendoSoup):

「ポケットモンスター ソード・シールド」ついに発売日になりました！！

ゲームフリークスタッフ皆で作ったガラル地方。やっとお届けすることができました。

ポケモン達との出会いや、新しい冒険が、思い出となってくれたら嬉しいです。

それではガラル地方の旅をお楽しみください！！ pic.twitter.com/BYsNvLnWgS

— 大森滋 @ポケモンスカーレットバイオレットDLCゼロの秘宝発売中！ (@Shigeru_Ohmori) November 14, 2019

The launch day for Pokemon Sword and Shield has finally arrived!

This is the Galar region, which was created by everyone at Game Freak. We have finally did it.

I will be happy for all the Pokemon encounters, new adventures, and memories that you experience.

Please enjoy your new adventure in the Galar region!!

What do you think?