For quite a number of Pokémon fans, last year's Pokémon Legends ZA was disappointing. The game received mixed reviews, with some criticising the poor visuals, restrictive game world, and buggy gameplay. However, Pokémon Pokopia could win back some fans.

Animal Crossing-styled Pokémon game

Most Pokémon games play the same; you catch Pokémon, battle trainers and gyms, then win badges to be crowned league champion. But according to Nintendo, Pokémon Pokopia drops that formula for something more chill. You play as a lonely Ditto impersonating a human, and your goal is to revive a ruined Kanto region. Sounds familiar? That setup is pretty similar to Harvest Moon and Stardew Valley.

Of course, the Ditto can transform into other Pokémon. This allows limited access to that Pokémon's skill, which is then used to perform various tasks. For example, transforming into a Squirtle to water plants, or a Scyther that can cut through trees. Using these abilities, you can develop a village, build roads, and make different furniture. If you enjoy chill games, Pokémon Pokopia could be right up your alley.

March launch

Pokémon Pokopia releases on 5 March 2026 and will retail for USD 70 (~RM273). Whether it will be officially available in Malaysia is unknown, but you can expect some news sometime next month.

Until then, stay tuned to TechNave for more news like this.