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Disappearing in 2027

After nearly six years, it’s over! This Switch game is being shut down.

A man in a light blue sweater holds a Nintendo Switch horizontally with both hands. The black back of the console, featuring the white Nintendo Switch logo, is visible. A blue Joy-Con controller is attached on the left, and a red one on the right. The man smiles as he looks at the console.
Pokémon UNITE to be Discontinued on Nintendo Switch and Mobile Devices in March 2027 Photo: Future via Getty Images
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October 29, 2026, 9:00 am | Read time: 3 minutes

A free Pokémon game has been a staple on Nintendo Switch and smartphones for years. But now it’s official: 2027 will be the end.

Since July 2021, players have been competing against each other in Pokémon UNITE. Now, the operators have announced the end of the game. According to a statement on the official “Pokémon UNITE” website, the service will be discontinued on March 23, 2027. The server shutdown affects both the Nintendo Switch version and the mobile editions. After that, it will no longer be possible to log in or participate in battles.

A specific reason for the discontinuation is not mentioned in the statement. Instead, the operators thank the players who have supported the title since the launch of the Switch version on July 21, 2021. Pokémon UNITE will remain playable until the shutdown. This means that next year, a title that combines the Pokémon concept with strategic team battles will disappear.

First Paid Offers Already Disappeared

Preparations for the end have already begun. Since October 27, 2026, Aeos Gems are no longer being sold. However, existing units of the in-game currency can still be spent until the service ends. New paid memberships in the UNITE Club can also no longer be purchased from this point on.

Colorful game graphics from the video game 'Pokémon Unite.' In a futuristic arena, several Pokémon can be seen, including Pikachu, Cinderace, Greninja, Gengar, and Mr. Mime. The Pokémon are in various battle poses and are surrounded by glowing energy effects. In the background, a large arena, spectator stands, and a blue sky can be seen.
In “Pokémon Unite,” various Pokémon compete against each other in an arena. The game focuses on team-based battles with well-known characters like Pikachu, Cinderace, and Gengar.

Additionally, existing memberships will no longer be automatically renewed. Current members can use the associated benefits until the end of the current membership period. However, players won’t have to completely forgo new content until the server shutdown. An update with a special farewell event is scheduled for November 12, 2026. Among other things, previously released Unite licenses and Holowear will be available.

A Part of Pokémon UNITE Remains

With the November update, the developers are also introducing a so-called Library function. It will allow certain recordings and content from the game to be viewed even after the regular operation ends. However, the necessary Library data must be downloaded before the shutdown on March 23, 2027. Afterward, there will be no support for the function. Additionally, the operator notes that the saved Library data generally cannot be transferred when changing devices.

Also of interest: This Nintendo console is now worth a fortune

So, Pokémon UNITE is not saying goodbye quietly. The already announced tournament “Pokémon UNITE Aeos Crown 2027 Tokyo” is still set to take place, with qualification beginning on December 5, 2026, according to the operator. After that, the countdown begins: On March 23, 2027, the actual game operation will end for good.

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of TECHBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@techbook.de.

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