TODAY’S PAPER | April 09, 2026 | EPAPER

Free Nintendo Switch game Pokémon Champions offers early download bonus

Pokémon Champions players can claim Dragonite and in-game rewards with early download offer


Pop Culture & Art April 09, 2026 1 min read
Photo: Nintendo

A new Pokémon Champions release on the Nintendo Switch is offering players an early download bonus, providing additional incentives for those who access the game within a limited timeframe.

The title, which launched globally, is available as a free-to-play experience focused entirely on battles. Unlike traditional entries in the Pokémon series, Pokémon Champions removes role-playing elements such as story progression and exploration, instead centring on competitive online gameplay.

Players who download and play the game before April 8 are eligible to receive a bonus package that includes a Dragonite and 100 Quick Coupons, an in-game currency.

According to an update shared by Serebii.net, the offer has been extended, with players able to claim the same rewards if they access the game between April 8 and August 31.

The inclusion of Dragonite is notable, as the character is typically difficult to obtain in standard Pokémon titles. It usually requires players to capture and evolve Dratini through multiple stages, making it a later-game acquisition. 

Pokémon Champions also includes support for Pokémon Home, allowing players to integrate their existing collections. However, the game’s roster is limited to fully evolved Pokémon, with Pikachu being a notable exception.

The game is available on both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, although no platform-specific enhancements have been announced for the newer system.

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