TOKYO: Pokémon UNITE will end service next year, bringing its online multiplayer battles to a close on Nintendo Switch and mobile devices, the game’s developers have announced. According to the official notice, the servers will shut down on March 23, 2027, at 00:00 UTC. After that, players will no longer be able to log in or participate in battles.
The developers announced the decision on October 27, thanking players who have supported the game since its Nintendo Switch debut in July 2021. Although online gameplay will end, players will have an opportunity to preserve some of their in-game achievements and collected items through a planned library feature.
Purchases suspended as shutdown approaches
Sales of Aeos gems, the game’s premium currency, have been suspended. Players can continue using their existing balances until service ends.
New UNITE Club memberships and automatic renewals have also been discontinued, although current subscribers can retain their benefits until their existing membership periods expire.
A special update scheduled for November 12 will introduce events, missions and login bonuses that reward players with Unite Coins. These can be exchanged for eligible items, including Pokémon licenses, Holowear and Trainer fashion accessories.
Library feature to preserve selected content
The planned library will allow players to revisit certain achievements, tournament records, collected items and other in-game content after the servers close. However, players must complete the required library data download before the shutdown date to retain access. Those who miss the deadline will not be able to use the feature afterward.
The library will not preserve the full online game, and battles will no longer be available.
Meanwhile, the developers confirmed that the Pokémon UNITE Aeos Crown 2027 Tokyo competition will proceed as planned, with qualifying tournaments scheduled to begin on December 5, 2026.
The shutdown marks the end of the game’s online service after nearly six years, although selected content and memories will remain accessible to players who complete the required preparation.
