It's time for the first Pokemon General Election

The world's first Pokémon election is happening, and only one of the 720 candidates will be elected. In Japan, timed to promote the latest in a possibly never-ending series of movies, the company is holding an vote to choose one Pokémon -- which somehow apparently makes it different to the many popularity polls it's held before. (Pikachu regularly does well, as do rare, powerful 'mon.) Voting, on adorable physical Poké-ballots, will be held in Pokémon Centers and Toys 'R Us stores across Japan, while residents will also be able to vote online on their 3DS through Japan's network of Seven-Eleven convenience stores and its WiFi hub.

There is one thing voters should factor into their decision -- and it's not the fictional candidates position on healthcare -- the winner will become a free download for theater goers that bring their 3DS (and a copy of Pokémon X, Y, Omega Ruby, or Alpha Sapphire). Voting kicks off tomorrow through May 8th.