The Pokémon Company, in collaboration with developers GAME FREAK and KOEI TECMO GAMES, has released new information about the content coming soon to Pokémon Pokopia. This city-building title for Nintendo Switch 2 will receive an extended trailer, titled “Pokémon Pokopia Expansion Pass | Extended Trailer”, which features the first of three chapters of paid DLC and a free software update released simultaneously.
The “Bubbly Basin” expansion and version 2.0.0 of the game will be available on the same date, coming together to expand players’ experience.
The first part of the Pokémon Pokopia Expansion Pass, called “Bubbly Basin”, is scheduled for release on August 5, 2026. On the same date, the free update to version 2.0.0 will be released. Players will be able to use their current save data when accessing all new content.
The Expansion Pass will be introduced in three distinct phases. The first part, “Bubbly Basin”, features a brand new underwater city, as well as new Pokémon and furniture options. The second part, expected in late 2026, will add accessories, more Pokémon and furniture items, but will not include a new urban area. The third and final part, scheduled for 2027, will bring another new city, with additional Pokémon and furniture. The full Expansion Pass, covering all three parts, is now available for purchase on the Nintendo eShop, the Nintendo Store, and the official Nintendo Store app.
To access the “Bubbling Basin”, players must first install the free Version 2.0.0 update, complete a quest called “Level up the environment!” in the area known as Praia Desolada and learn a new movement, Diving.
Exploration and features of the new bubbling basin
The “Bubbling Basin” is an underwater area where players build a city alongside Popplio and Ditto, completing missions with the Pokémon they encounter. New mechanics are incorporated to complement this unique scenario:
- Cultivation of watermelons:A new crop, watermelon, can be grown in underwater fields. Water-type Pokémon like Mudkip need to cover seedlings with bubbles for growth, while Pokémon with the Grow ability can speed up the process.
- Floating Blocks:They allow the construction of buildings that float at different underwater depths, enabling exclusive three-dimensional layouts for the aquatic environment.
- Bubble Machines:Pokémon with the Generate specialty, like Chinchou, can power underwater devices such as lampposts and bubble machines themselves.
New water-themed furniture will also be made available, including the option to build a Sharpedo submarine, which serves as a Secret Base. In addition to the urban expansion, players can explore a dark underwater cave accessible through a hole in the sea floor, guided by luminous corals, and unlock a Dream Island — obtained with a Starmie doll — where you can swim and interact in multiplayer mode. The update also adds new clothes, Pokémon, an improved Surf move and a new food recipe: smoothies.
Contents of the second part of the expansion pass
Part 2 of the Expansion Pass, expected in late 2026, will introduce accessories that allow players and their Pokémon to dress in coordination, as well as additional furniture and Pokémon. Unlike the first part, Part 2 will not include a new urban area.
Advantages and gifts for those who purchase the expansion pass
Purchasers of the Pokémon Pokopia Expansion Pass receive two exclusive bonuses.
One of the bonuses is the dynamic Ditto printing recipe, which can be used to create blocks and wallpapers with the Ditto image. This item is immediately redeemable through the game’s Downloadable Content menu, requiring an update to version 1.1.0 and approximately 30 minutes of gameplay to unlock access to the workbench.
Another benefit is 30 rare Pokémetal ingots, available via a serial code emailed to the buyer’s Nintendo account. The offer is valid for purchases made until August 31, 2027, and the code can be redeemed via in-game Mystery Gifts, valid until September 30, 2027. Each code is single-use and redemption requires an internet connection and a linked Nintendo Account, although a paid Nintendo Switch Online subscription is not required. These items can also be obtained during normal gameplay.
Diving skill transforms construction into underwater areas
The free update to version 2.0.0 introduces Diving, a move that grants players the freedom to move underwater. This skill is taught by Manaphy, who can be recruited during the “Bubbling Basin” DLC, after players complete the quest “Level up the environment!” and have already mastered the Surf and Jump movements.
With the Diving skill, players can build underwater recreation areas and crop fields. It is even possible to install train tracks that connect land to water areas, allowing wheelbarrows to travel, which enables the sustainable development of underwater cities, something previously unheard of.
Temporary event details collecting scales for Feebas
An in-game seasonal event titled “Collecting Scales for Feebas” will run from August 13th at 5am (UTC+9) until August 28th at 4:59am (UTC+9). During the event period, players will collect prismatic scales, which can be exchanged for water-themed furniture. These items are used to build habitats that attract and allow you to befriend Feebas and Milotic.
To participate, players must have the version 2.0.0 update installed, complete an in-game request to rebuild the Pokémon Center, and ensure their Nintendo Switch 2’s date and time are set correctly while connected to the internet. The event will not be activated if the system clock is outside the established duration period.
