Pokémon Champions: The Heir to Stadium, Colosseum, and Battle Revolution's Pokétopia, Opens Its Doors Today on Nintendo Switch

The Pokémon Company International has confirmed the launch of Pokémon Champions for Nintendo Switch on April 8th, with a mobile version planned for later this year. This new title, which will not feature the National Pokédex, aims to expand the Pokémon battling experience to a wider audience, allowing players on both platforms to engage in strategic battles with a diverse array of Pokémon, each with their unique types, abilities, and moves.

Furthermore, Pokémon Champions will offer compatibility with Pokémon Home. This means trainers will be able to transfer their eligible Pokémon from the main series games and Pokémon GO, ensuring their favorite companions can join them in battles and events within Pokémon Champions.

Pokémon Champions has also been designated as the official platform for Play! Pokémon Video Game Championships. The Ranked Score season will kick off with the Indianapolis Regional Championship (May 29-31), followed by the Turin Special Championship (June 6-7), the North America International Championship (June 12-14), and culminating in the Pokémon World Championship (August 28-30).

Launch Bundle and Graphical Enhancements

The Pokémon Champions Starter Pack will be available from April 8th, offering the base game along with additional benefits for new players.

Nintendo Switch 2 owners will receive a free update on April 8th, significantly enhancing the game's graphics. An internet connection will be required to download this update and access the improvements.

Mega Evolutions and New Abilities on the Battlefield

Mega Meganium, Mega Emboar, and Mega Feraligatr are among the Mega Evolutions making their debut in Pokémon Champions. These forms, originally introduced in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, arrive with brand-new abilities that will transform battle strategies.

• Mega Meganium will feature the Megasolar ability, boosting its moves as if under intense sunlight.
• Mega Emboar's Mold Breaker ability will allow it to nullify opponents' abilities during battle.
• Mega Feraligatr will introduce Dragon Skin, an ability that transforms its Normal-type attacks into Dragon-type attacks, increasing their power by 20%.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A is currently available on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. Further details regarding supporting characters and trainers in Pokémon Champions will be revealed soon.