Free-to-Start
Ongoing coverage on Free-to-Start.
Latest coverage
[Let’s Talk] Will you be giving Nintendo’s new game Pictonico a shot?
Nintendo has surprised players with the announcement of Pictonico, a new mobile game featuring mini-games centered around photos. The game will be free-to-start, with players needing to pay to access all content. Pictonico is set to launch next week.
Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Pokémon Champions
Critics have shared their reviews for the new free-to-start battle game Pokémon Champions on Nintendo Switch. While praised for its accessibility and solid core mechanics, the game is criticized for convoluted monetization, performance issues, bugs, and a significant grind. Reviewers suggest the game has potential but requires substantial updates and additions to become a premier competitive Pokémon experience.
Pokemon Champions now available to download
Pokemon Champions has launched as a free-to-start title on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, featuring in-game purchases like a Battle Pass. The game utilizes familiar mechanics from previous Pokemon titles and will be used for official Pokemon Video Game Championship events.
Pokémon Champions First Details About Price Reportedly Surface
Details regarding the pricing model for the upcoming free-to-start game Pokémon Champions have reportedly surfaced at PAX East. Potential costs include a $9.99 Starter Pack, a free Battle Pass, a $6.99 Premium Battle Pass, and a $49.99 12-Month Membership, though these have not been officially confirmed by Nintendo or The Pokémon Company.
Pokemon Champions producer says it could run “forever” if the series does
Pokemon Champions producer Masaaki Hoshino stated that the game is planned to run "forever" as long as the Pokemon series continues. The free-to-start title, launching on April 8th for Nintendo Switch, features extensive customization options. Its long-term success will depend on its initial reception and solid foundations.
Hands On: Pokémon Champions Promises Top-Tier Battling, But At What Cost?
Pokémon Champions aims to be the premier battle game for the competitive scene, integrating mechanics like Mega Evolutions and Terrastalisation. While the accessible team-building and training systems are promising, the game's 'free-to-start' model raises concerns about multiple in-game currencies and potential pay-to-win elements, leaving its ultimate value proposition uncertain.
ICYMI: Pokémon Champions Is Getting A Free Update For Switch 2
The Pokémon Company and Nintendo have announced that Pokémon Champions will receive a free update for the Nintendo Switch 2, offering enhanced visual performance at launch on April 8, 2026. The game is free-to-start with optional paid content, and the mobile version is also scheduled for release later this year.
Pokemon Champions Arrives in April With Free Switch 2 Update
Pokemon Champions will launch on April 8, 2026, for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, with a free-to-start version and a Starter Pack bundle available. A free update for the Switch 2 will enhance visual performance. The game will be used for Play! Pokemon Competitions and allows players to import Pokemon from other titles like Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet.
Pokemon Champions overview trailer game launches 8th April
Pokémon Champions, a free-to-start game focused on online Pokémon battles, is launching for the Nintendo Switch on April 8th. The game will also be playable on the Nintendo Switch 2 with enhanced performance via a free update. Players can purchase additional content bundles and a Premium Battle Pass for expanded features and customization options.
Pokémon Champions Is Coming To Nintendo Switch On April 8, With Free-To-Start Model
Pokémon Champions will launch on April 8 for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, featuring a free-to-start model similar to Pokémon Unite. The game focuses entirely on player-versus-player battles with various online modes, including Ranked and Casual Battles. While the base game is free, optional purchases like the Starter Pack bundle and a Premium Battle Pass will be available.
Pokemon Champions Release Date Set for Early April
The Pokemon Company has announced that Pokemon Champions will be released on April 8th for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. The game will be free-to-start, with optional purchases for additional content and features. A day-one update will improve visuals on the Switch 2, and players can transfer Pokemon from Pokemon Home.
Pokémon Champions Launches April 8 on Switch With Online Battles and Free-to-Start Model
Pokémon Champions, a free-to-start battle-focused game, will launch for Nintendo Switch on April 8, with an update for Switch 2 available at launch. The game centers around player-versus-player battles using familiar Pokémon mechanics, featuring various online modes like Ranked Battles and Casual Battles. While the base game is free, optional purchases include a Starter Pack, Premium Battle Pass, and Membership.
Pokemon Champions launches in April
The Pokemon Company and The Pokemon Works have announced that Pokemon Champions, a new multiplayer-focused Pokemon battling game, will launch on Nintendo Switch on April 8th, with iOS and Android versions to follow in 2026. The free-to-start game features online battles, team building, and various monetization options including a Premium Battle Pass.
