A new Pokémon game combining the popular franchise with sandbox gameplay is set to launch on March 5, according to recent announcements. “Pokémon Pokopia” distinguishes itself from traditional Pokémon titles by prioritizing interaction with Pokémon over battling, offering players a “gradual life sandbox” experience.
The game centers around Metamon, who awakens after a long sleep in human form. Players will utilize Pokémon abilities to cultivate habitats and explore uncharted territories. A key feature is the ability to learn techniques from other Pokémon, enabling players to construct structures and rebuild towns.
Developed through a collaboration between The Pokémon Company, GAME FREAK inc., and KOEI TECMO GAMES, “Pokémon Pokopia” features an open-ended structure, allowing players to create their own unique Pokémon world without strict narrative constraints. The developers emphasized the importance of community features, including “Sharing Communication” for direct interaction with friends and “Cloud Island” for asynchronous multiplayer experiences.
According to developers, the game aims to provide a peaceful and immersive experience where players coexist and interact with Pokémon. This marks a significant departure from the series’ traditional focus on competitive battling, offering a new avenue for fans to engage with the Pokémon universe. The release signals a growing trend of integrating established intellectual property with the increasingly popular sandbox genre.
Pre-orders for the package version of “Pokémon Pokopia” (with a key card) began on January 14, 2026, and those who purchased the game early received a Metamon rug as a bonus. The initial announcement of the game’s spring 2026 release was made on November 11, 2025, with further details revealed on November 13, 2025, and January 14, 2026. More information about the game can be found on the official Pokémon Pokopia website and in a report from Inven.
The game is slated for release on the Nintendo Switch 2, as noted on Namuwiki.
