Pokémon Champions to replace Scarlet and Violet in Pokémon World Championships 2026

Pokémon Champions will take the place of Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet as the official Video Game Championships (VGC) platform at the 2026 Pokémon World Championships - marking the first time a non-main-series title leads the competition.

Pokémon Champions will also serve as the official game for Championship Series events in the lead-up to Worlds.

Unveiled at the 2025 World Championships closing ceremony, this spin-off is slated for release in 2026 on Nintendo Switch and mobile devices, and introduces mechanics like Mega Evolution, supported by in-game features such as the Omni Ring.



WHAT IS POKÉMON CHAMPIONS?

Pokémon Champions is an upcoming battle-focused spin-off that introduces a streamlined training system, full Pokémon Home connectivity, and multiple online competitive modes. The title is set to take over as the official VGC platform at the 2026 Pokémon World Championships, replacing Scarlet and Violet.

The 2026 Worlds, scheduled for San Francisco, will mark a new era of competition with several major changes driven by Pokémon Champions. Among the highlights is the debut of Mega Dragonite, a brand-new Mega Evolution. First appearing in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, this powerful form will also be fully integrated into Champions battles.

According to Pokémon's official website, the upcoming battle-centric title will retain core mechanics like Pokémon types, Abilities, and moves, ensuring a competitive environment that fosters diverse strategies for both seasoned players and newcomers.

HOW TO ASSEMBLE YOUR PERFECT TEAM

According to the website, players can now transfer past partners via Pokémon HOME or catch and recruit new ones directly within the game.