Pokémon’s upcoming life-sim Pokopia is shaping up to be one of the most unique entries the series has attempted. Scheduled to launch on Nintendo Switch 2 on March 5, 2026, Pokopia lets players step into the role of a Ditto-turned-human while building a town, decorating homes, chatting with Pokémon, and harvesting cosy crops. Pre-orders are officially live, and several bonuses have already been confirmed.
What You Get When You Pre-Order Pokopia
Pokopia is available in two formats:
1. Digital Version
Available directly from the Nintendo eShop. Download begins on release day.
2. Game-Key Card Version
This is the first major Pokémon release to use Nintendo’s Game-Key Card format.
The card does not contain the game itself—think of it as an activation key that triggers a download on your Switch 2 system.
Here’s what you need for the Game-Key Card version:
- An active internet connection
- At least 8 GB of free space (possibly more for updates)
- Nintendo Account link on your profile
Early Purchase Bonus: Ditto Rug
Every pre-order—digital or Game-Key Card—includes an in-game Ditto rug, a cosmetic item you can use to decorate your Pokémon homes.
Key details:
- Available through Mystery Gift
- Requires internet connection
- Your profile must be linked to a Nintendo Account
- No Nintendo Switch Online membership required
- Unlocks ~30 minutes into the game
- Bonus can only be claimed once
- Also obtainable through normal gameplay
- Claim deadline: January 31, 2027
Exclusive Pokémon Center Pre-Order Bonus: Free Ditto Plush
Pokémon Center is preparing a special pre-order bonus: a free Ditto Sitting Cuties plush for anyone who buys Pokopia from the Pokémon Center storefront before release.
- The offer applies only to physical copies
- Physical pre-orders for Pokopia at Pokémon Center are not live yet, but a promo banner is already visible
- Digital pre-orders do not grant the plush
- Previous plush promotions (such as for Legends: Z-A) had stock shortages—so availability may be limited
Once Pokémon Center opens physical pre-orders, stock may go fast. Anyone wanting the plush should secure it early.
Where to Pre-Order Pokopia
Digital pre-orders are open in all major regions.
United States
- Nintendo eShop
- Retail partners (Best Buy, Amazon, GameStop) — availability may vary
United Kingdom
- Nintendo eShop
- Major retailers such as GAME, Amazon UK, ShopTo
Physical pre-order listings will expand over the coming months, especially as Pokémon Center releases its Ditto plush bundle.
Should You Buy Digital or Game-Key Card?
If you’re deciding between the two:
Choose Digital if:
- You want instant access at launch
- You prefer not handling physical cards
Choose Game-Key Card if:
- You want a physical collectible
- You plan to secure the Pokémon Center Ditto plush bundle
Keep in mind: both versions require full game download, so storage requirements are the same.
