The Pokémon Company has confirmed that Pokémon Champions will only allow fully evolved Pokémon at launch. That means no Pikachu, Porygon2, Chansey, or Dragonair-unless you evolve them first. Producer Masaaki Hoshino told journalists: “Only final evolutions will be available at launch… After we introduce many of the final evolutions, we may also consider previous evolutions. For now, this approach is more accessible to new players.”
This decision aims to simplify the experience for newcomers. It prevents new players from accidentally handicapping themselves by choosing weaker, unevolved Pokémon in tough battles. However, it also sidelines a significant part of the competitive meta. Items like Eviolite, which boost the defenses of Pokémon that can still evolve, have made picks like Dusclops, Chansey, Clefairy, and Porygon2 staples in high-level play. With only final evolutions allowed, that entire strategy is off the table.
Casual players will feel the pinch too. Want to field a team of baby Pokémon just for fun? Not at launch. This rule also means you can’t bring your favorites if they aren’t fully evolved-a tough blow for iconic Pokémon like Pikachu. Although Pikachu features prominently in the game’s artwork, it’s technically banned since it evolves into Raichu. There’s speculation that exceptions might be made for mascot Pokémon like Pikachu and possibly Eevee, as they’ve been treated specially in past titles like the original Japanese Pokémon Stadium.
For those eager to experiment with team-building, patience is key. Hoshino hinted that earlier evolutions might be added later, but at launch, it’s strictly final forms. That means no assembling a Munchlax squad or running quirky “baby Pokémon only” formats. Competitive players will also need to rethink strategies, as the Eviolite meta is temporarily sidelined.
Pokémon Champions launches April 8 on Switch, with a mobile version arriving later this year. The game will be the main stage for official Pokémon tournaments, including the Pokémon World Championships. Whether you’re competing or just playing with friends, expect a streamlined experience-at least until more options roll out.
The bottom line
- Only fully evolved Pokémon are playable at launch; fan favorites like Pikachu may get exceptions, but nothing is confirmed.
- Competitive and casual strategies relying on unevolved Pokémon are off the table for now.
- Pokémon Champions launches April 8 on Switch; mobile version follows later in 2026.