According to the latest Pokemon Day Presents broadcast, the popular MOBA Pokemon UNITE is receiving a massive roster expansion featuring iconic Kanto Legendaries Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres, and fan-favorite Johto starters. Players can expect the trio to arrive in Pokemon UNITE alongside the second-generation starters.
This announcement arrives during a historic moment for the pocket monster franchise. February 27 marks the 30th anniversary of the Pokemon series, a milestone that celebrates three decades of catching, training, and battling. Since its launch in 2021, Pokemon UNITE has carved out its own niche in the multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) world by bringing team-based strategy to the Pokemon universe on Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. The game has consistently expanded its playable licenses to keep the meta fresh, but fans have been vocal about wanting more representation from earlier generations. This anniversary update serves not just as a content drop, but as a tribute to the legacy that began in Kanto and Johto years ago.
Pokemon Unite Is Making Major Changes For The Rest Of 2025
Pokemon Unite reveals what players can expect through the rest of 2025, including some significant changes to the game’s most competitive map.
The Legendary Birds Join the Fray
The primary highlight of the presentation was the official confirmation that the three Legendary Birds—Zapdos, Articuno, and Moltres—are transitioning from powerful map objectives into fully playable characters. While Twitter updates confirmed the trio’s arrival, Game Freak clarified that they won’t all land at once. Zapdos is officially available starting February 27, taking on the role of a high-damage Attacker. Moltres and Articuno are set to follow shortly through a series of special events, where they will fill the All-Rounder and Defender slots, respectively.
Beyond the Kanto legends, the Pokemon Presents broadcast confirmed that the Johto starters—Chikorita, Cyndaquil, and Totodile—will finally reach their final forms on Aeos Island. While official release dates for all three are still pending, data mines and leaks shared by community insiders like ElChicoEevee suggest that Meganium will likely be the first to sprout.
While the Legendary Birds are the immediate focus for many, the Johto starter evolutions are expected to bring much-needed variety to their respective roles. Meganium is set to break the mold of typical grass-type All-Rounders by debuting as a dedicated supporter. This choice has been praised by the Pokemon community on Reddit, where users noted that a bulky, plant-based healer is a “perfect fit” for the role. Meganium’s kit is reportedly built around utility, featuring moves like Magical Leaf and Grass Knot to hinder opponents, while Synthesis provides sustain for its teammates.
In contrast, Typhlosion is expected to fulfill the fantasies of competitive players as a high-burst Attacker. The role aligns with Typhlosion’s mainline history as a glass cannon that utilizes Eruption to decimate teams. Though official moves are still under wraps, there is heavy speculation that it may also feature Flame Wheel as an early-game mobility option.
Feraligatr, the final piece of the Johto trio, is an All-Rounder, specializing in physical brawling. Community discussions suggest that Feraligatr will likely follow a traditional evolution path, starting as a high-pressure Totodile before becoming a late-game powerhouse. Insiders suggest that these three additions will land directly in the S-tier, potentially forcing a massive reshuffle of the current tier list as players adapt to their unique mechanics.
The addition of these six heavy-hitters is expected to shake up the current meta significantly. Early assessments place these new additions in the S-tier, potentially outclassing current favorites upon release. To help players unlock these new licenses, a special anniversary event is currently active, providing a path for everyone to add the Legendary Birds to their collection. This is a welcome change for players who have recently expressed frustration over the license journey system, as these events typically allow for free unlocks through consistent play.
While UNITE fans have plenty to celebrate, the Pokemon Presents stream covered much more ground for the franchise’s 30th. The 10th Generation of Pokemon, titled Pokemon Winds & Waves, was teased for a 2027 release. Additionally, the GameCube classic Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness is headed to Nintendo Switch Online, and Pokemon Champions received an April 2026 release date.
The road ahead for Pokemon UNITE looks busier than ever. Between the immediate arrival of Zapdos and the looming debut of the Johto starters, the 30th Anniversary is delivering the high-impact content the community has been craving. Whether players are looking to dive into the new Electrode Volleyball World Tour or grind out event points for Moltres, the next few months will be pivotal for the MOBA’s legacy.
