Battle-hungry Pokemon fans will be thrilled to hear that Pokemon Champions is now on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. The free-to-start title marks a step away from titles like Pokemon Scarlet & Violet or Pokemon Legends Z-A, and instead offers up quick online battles with other Pokemon fans all over the world. But what do you actually need to get started?
Do You Need Nintendo Switch Online for Pokemon Champions?
No, you do not need an active Nintendo Switch Online account to play Pokemon Champions. Much like some other online titles, such as Pokemon Unite, Fortnite, and Rocket League, you can play Pokemon Champions online with just an active internet connection.
Thankfully, no content is gated either, with every online multiplayer mode open to all players, whether they have an active Nintendo Switch Online membership or not.
What You Actually Need to Play Pokemon Champions Online
To play online matches of Pokemon Champions, you need a Nintendo Switch or a Nintendo Switch 2. Then, download the free Pokemon Champions app from the eShop, provided you have an active Nintendo account, which lets you access the eShop.
When the game is downloaded, you will just need a steady internet connection to join and play matches against other online opponents.
At the time of writing, Pokemon Champions is only available on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. However, it is also slated to arrive on mobile devices later in 2026.
Can You Play Pokemon Champions Offline?
No, Pokemon Champions does not offer any significant offline options. You can navigate the game’s menus while offline, and complete the intro tutorial, but if you want to battle against other players, it must be done over the internet.
At the time of writing, Pokemon Champions has no local multiplayer mode that lets Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 owners connect wirelessly together to battle. Hopefully, this feature gets added in the future.
Is Pokemon Champions Free to Play on Nintendo Switch?
Pokemon Champions is free-to-start, meaning that you do not have to pay any money to download and play the app. But there are ways to spend money inside the game. Pokemon Champions currently has both a monthly membership and a Premium Battle Pass.
The monthly membership costs $5 / £4.19 , while the 12-month membership costs – $50 / £42. This offers an additional 1,000 box spaces, an extra 15 battle teams, as well as exclusive missions and battle songs.
The Premium Battle Pass costs $10 / £8 per season and allows players to unlock many more rewards alongside the free Battle Pass.
