A new Pokémon game has been added to the catalog of the Nintendo Switchand it doesn’t cost a cent to download. Proposed by The Pokémon Company, Pokémon Champions transforms Nintendo’s hybrid console into a giant arena for online battles, focusing on a free-to-start model. Best of all, an early download bonus offers a Dragonite free to the first players, but you will have to act in time.
This competitive spin-off arrives on April 8, 2026 for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, before a mobile release later in the year. Designed as a new official hub for tournaments, it fits between big episodes like Pokémon Winds and Waves And Pokémon Legends: ZA. Before launching into the world ladder, it is better to understand how to secure this free Dragonite and what it actually changes for your team.
Pokémon Champions: what is this new free Pokémon game on Switch?
With Pokémon Champions, The Pokémon Company refocuses the experience on what strategists prefer: combat. No more exploration and storyline, this title focuses on solo or duo clashes, ranked matches, private lobbies and official tournaments. Each battle earns Victory Points, an internal currency that allows you to recruit new Pokémon and refine their abilities to climb the rankings.
The game is available for download free of charge on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 via the eShop, with crossplay planned with iOS and Android versions expected later in 2026. A paid Starter Pack exists for those who want more storage or some cosmetic bonuses, but the core competitive content, including future support for the 2026 Pokémon World Championships in San Francisco, remains accessible for free.
Pokémon Champions Early Download Bonus: How to Enjoy Free Dragonite?
Where Pokémon Champions becomes really interesting is with its launch bonus. According to the official announcement relayed by Pokémon HOMEany player who downloads and launches the game at least once before Monday August 31, 2026 receives a Dragonite free via the in-game mailbox, accompanied in some versions by a few Quick Coupons to speed up recruitment. This Dragonite will later be able to mega-evolve into Mega Dracolossus thanks to the Dragoninite Mega Gem from the first Battle Pass.
Concretely, the procedure is simple : you download Pokémon Champions from the eShop, you complete the short introductory tutorial then you open the game’s messaging system to collect the gift. No purchase is required. Get Dragonite from the start, while it is a Pokémon normally reserved for the end of the game, offers a huge boost to test the meta and chain victories without having to farm Victory Points for hours.