Pokopia brings a whole new element to the Poké franchise: relaxation.
In the latest Nintendo Direct, the big N had some surprising announcements for us. Even Pokémon fans, who were mainly waiting for new info about Legends Z-A, still got a little treat.
Pink Poké-Pudding Protagonist
What nobody expected is basically a mix of Pokémon, Animal Crossing, and Harvest Moon. And who would be better suited to adapt the abilities of others and use them for themselves than Ditto?
That’s why the shape-shifting Pokémon is the protagonist in Pokopia, a laid-back life simulator that takes place away from fiery battles and the exploration of dangerous dungeons.
In Pokopia, it’s not about catching them all or becoming a Pokémaster. It’s not even about blasting that smug grin off your rival’s face because ever since he deliberately chose the Pokémon with a type advantage over your starter back then, he thought he was better than you.
Instead, you craft, build, and plant to create a dreamy place of relaxation for you and your Poké-friends.
Classic Moves – But Make Them Building Actions
Your Ditto in human form shapes the area according to your wishes – and don’t worry, we’re not talking about the nightmare fuel Ditto from Detective Pikachu, but a truly cute, chibi-esque style clearly inspired by Animal Crossing and Minecraft. It invites you into a world filled with adorable pocket monsters, Easter eggs, and puzzles.
The challenges and tasks awaiting you are overcome thanks to Ditto’s ability to copy other Pokémon’s moves. So you plant a tree with Bulbasaur’s help, water it with Squirtle’s Water Gun, and turn the harvested fruit into baked apples for everyone using Charmander’s Ember.
With Pokopia, Game Freak and Nintendo are diving deeper into the realm of wholesome Pokémon content, which they’ve already explored with the stop-motion series Pokémon Concierge.
Pokopia is set to release next year, but starting November 12, 2025, it will already be possible to pre-order the digital version of the game.
So if you can’t get enough of Pokémon, are looking for a relaxing alternative to the intense battles in Z-A, or just need something to shorten the wait for a new Animal Crossing: Pokopia and Ditto are here for you!