Pokémon Champions is a new title in the much-beloved franchise, and as with any fresh release, there's a lot to be excited about. It lets you take battles on the go and test your skills wherever you are, giving the competitive scene a new central hub.
If you're after more Poké-info, check out our Pokémon Presents roundup, everything as well as plenty of Pokémon Go codes .
When was the Pokémon Champions release date?
Pokémon Champions was released on April 8, 2026, for Nintendo Switch, with an iOS and Android launch coming later in the year.
What is the Pokémon Champions gameplay like?
Pokémon Champions is a free-to-play upcoming battle simulator from Game Freak, the same developer behind Pokémon Legends Z-A. From the gameplay footage we've seen so far, it looks like the new home of competitive Pokémon battling for both the singles and doubles formats. It will have Mega Evolution and Terastallization, so pretty much any 'mon from the Pokédex could be available to play.
Does Pokémon Champions support crossplay?
It has been confirmed that Pokémon Champions will have cross-play between Nintendo Switch and mobile, when the latter releases later in the year. This gives you an even bigger opportunity to team up with your friends, as they won't even need to own a Switch to get in on the fun.
During the game's original announcement, it was confirmed that the game will link up with Pokémon Home, meaning you can choose as and when you want to play, with any device. The game also gives you the power to change your Pokémon's stats and moves, so you can refine them from party members into battling powerhouses.
If you're looking for something to fill the void while you wait, check out the new Pokémon TCG Pocket packs and our picks for the best Pokémon games of all time - we're preemptively carving out a spot for Champions!