New Pokémon is Free and Already Has a Release Date

Key Takeaways

Created with AI - we're still experimenting, so apologies if it misses the mark

Pokémon Champions is set to release on April 8 for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, with an enhanced graphics version for the latter. Mobile versions will be available in 2026.
The game introduces Mega Evolutions such as Mega Meganium, Mega Emboar, and Mega Feraligatr, along with new abilities like Mega Sol, Mold Breaker, and Dragonize.
Players can start the game for free and transfer Pokémon from previous games to Pokémon Champions using Pokémon Home. Early adopters will receive a free Dragonite.
Pokémon Champions focuses exclusively on online PvP battles, marking a shift towards a competitive focus for the franchise.

Recommended products

This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn a commission from purchases made through these links.

-6%

Pokemon Monster Colle Mega Charizard Y 2 inches

$14.99$14.12

CHAOZI0Evil Winged, fire-Breathing Dragon Stuffed Animal Dinosaur Plush firedragon Toys, Throw Pillow, Role-Playing Game Fan Props (Orange Yellow)

$26.96

Squishmallows Original 10in Dragonite Pokémon Plush - Ultrasoft Official Jazwares Plush (Little)

$28.58

-18%

Pokemon Dragonair Plush - 12-Inch Soft Plush with Authentic Details

$27.98$22.99

The Pokémon Company has confirmed that Pokémon Champions will be released on April 8 for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. The Nintendo Switch 2 version will feature enhanced graphics. Versions for iOS and Android are planned for 2026. A Pokémon Champions Starter Kit will also be available, which includes the game plus bonuses such as extra Pokémon storage, additional battle music, 30 Teammate Tickets, and access to 50 Training Tickets and Trainer Battles. Pokémon Champions will feature turn-based battles in the style of the main series games, emphasizing strategic planning based on Pokémon types and abilities. Mega Meganium, Mega Emboar, and Mega Feraligatr are among the first confirmed Mega Evolutions. The game will include new abilities for many Pokémon, such as Mega Meganium’s Mega Sol, Mega Emboar’s Mold Breaker, and Mega Feraligatr’s Dragonize, which turns Normal-type attacks into Dragon-type attacks. As a free-to-start game, Pokémon Champions allows players to begin without any initial cost. Play Pokémon Competitions will begin using Pokémon Champions starting in April–May 2026, with the global event scheduled for May 14, 2026. The Indianapolis Pokémon Regional Championships in late May will be among the first competitions to transition to Pokémon Champions.

Pokémon Champions Introduces Mega Evolutions, Online PvP Focus with Nintendo Switch Release and Mobile Version in 2022

The new trailer for Pokémon Champions confirms that Mega Evolutions from Pokémon Legends: ZA will be included. Nintendo Switch 2 owners will receive a free update at launch to enhance the game’s visuals. Pokémon Champions will support Pokémon Home at launch, allowing players to transfer their Pokémon from Scarlet and Violet, Legends: ZA, Pokémon GO, and previous series titles. Players who get Pokémon Champions early will receive a free Dragonite. Dragonite’s Mega Evolution stone will be available in the Battle Pass. By transferring certain Pokémon from Legends: ZA, players can also acquire the Mega Stones for Chesnaught, Delphox, Greninja, and Eternal Flower Floette. The game will be the official VGC format this August at Pokémon Worlds, with a mobile release planned for later this year. Notably, Pokémon Champions focuses solely on online PvP battles, omitting traditional narrative-driven gameplay. This competitive focus promises a new experience for fans of the franchise. [Cover image for YouTube video “Pokémon Champions – Overview Trailer – Nintendo Switch”]

In Case You Missed It

Mark your calendars, Pokémon fans! The first official tournament of Pokémon Champions is happening May 1-4, bringing the competitive spin-off of Pokémon VGC to Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 in April. With a chance to earn a spot at the Pokémon Japan Championships or even the World Championships in San Francisco this August, and a Venusaur for all participants, you won’t want to miss it! Learn more about this groundbreaking event in Carlos Mendoza’s article from March 7, ‘Pokemon Champions Already Has Its First Official Tournament’ Pokemon Champions Already Has Its First Official Tournament. Meanwhile, Nintendo is making waves in the legal sphere too. Ahmed Hassan reports that the company has demanded a refund of illegal tariffs through the US International Trade Commission, alleging violations against Donald Trump’s administration under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977. Follow this developing story in Ahmed’s March 7th article here Nintendo Demands Return of Money from Trump’s “Illegal Tariffs. Speaking of Nintendo, did you know the Switch 2 is a treasure trove for Pokémon fans? Bruno Pferd’s recent article ‘All Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch 2’ (published March 18th, 2026) reveals that this console is essentially a time machine for these beloved creatures, with over 20 games available and more on the way. Dive back into your favorite Pokémon adventures in Bruno’s must-read article here All Pokémon Games on Nintendo Switch 2.

Specification
Official Name	Pokémon Champions
Brief Summary	Get ready to experience everything you love about Pokémon battles all in one place—in Pokémon Champions. This new, battle-focused game will feature familiar mechanics such as Pokémon types, Abilities, and moves, creating an environment conducive to rich and varied strategies for new and experienced Trainers alike. It’s not just familiar mechanics—you’ll be able to bring in classic Pokémon from Pokémon HOME, too! Look forward to cross-platform battles alongside your favorite Pokémon on Nintendo Switch and mobile, with a variety of different modes available for your desired experience.
Platforms	iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch
Released	April 8, 2026
Genre	Fighting, Role-playing (RPG), Strategy
Play Modes	Single player, Multiplayer
Content Rating	7
Languages	Czech, Spanish (Spain), Japanese
Genre	The Pokémon Works
Genre	Nintendo, The Pokémon Company