These figurines will have in-game effects, in a play style similar to Activision's Skylanders franchise. Pokémon Rumble U's near field communication feature will allow player to utilize real-world Pokémon figurines that will be 'read' by the Wii U GamePad. Pokemon Rumble U, the latest installment in the Pokemon Rumble series, will launch in Japan on April 24 as the first Wii U title to utilize the console's near field communication capabilities, according to a listing on the official Pokemon website.