Pokémon Champions is set to launch on Nintendo Switch on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, bringing intense Pokémon battles to a whole new level. Alongside the base game, a special Pokémon Champions + Starter Pack bundle will also be released on the same day.
Pokémon Champions is a battle-focused game that uses the same classic features fans already know, like Pokémon types, Abilities, and moves. These help players create different strategies during battles. You can choose to compete seriously in Ranked Battles or just have fun in Casual Battles, depending on what you like.
The Pokémon Champions + Starter Pack bundle will include the main game along with some useful in-game bonuses like extra Pokémon storage space, an additional battle song and more, according to the official website.
Players using Nintendo Switch 2 will also get a free update which will make the game look clearer with better graphics.
A mobile version of Pokémon Champions is also being developed. Players on Nintendo Switch and mobile will be able to battle each other, thanks to cross-platform play.
Additionally, Pokémon Champions will also connect with Pokémon HOME which will allow the players to bring in certain Pokémon from past games in the series as well as from Pokémon GO and team up with them in battle.
One of the biggest highlights of Pokémon Champions is the arrival of three powerful Mega Evolutions, all of which originally appeared in Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
The Video Game Championships (VGC) will start using Pokémon Champions as the main platform for all competitive matches from April 8, 2026.