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Pokémon Pokopia Expansion and Free Update Arrive Next Week, Unlocking Underwater Gameplay
Pokémon Pokopia will receive a free update and its first paid expansion on 5 August 2026, introducing underwater gameplay to the life-sim spin-off for the first time. The free update grants all players the new Dive ability, courtesy of an in-game visit from the Mythical Pokémon Manaphy, letting their Ditto avatar breathe underwater and build on the seabed much as they currently do on land, with their collected Pokémon able to swim alongside them.
The paid content, called Bubbly Basin, costs $34.99 as part of the Pokémon Pokopia expansion pass and adds the game's first post-launch region, a submerged town where players can meet water-type Pokémon such as Popplio, Mudkip and Corsola, grow underwater crops, and explore neon-coral-lit caves. The expansion also brings new furniture, collectible items and a Sharpedo-shaped submarine base, and the pass covers two further expansions, one due later in 2026 adding Pokémon accessories and another in 2027 adding a new town.
In short
- Pokémon Pokopia gets underwater gameplay via free update on 5 August 2026
- Manaphy grants players the new Dive ability
- Paid Bubbly Basin expansion ($34.99) adds a submerged region and new Pokémon
Explained simply
Pokémon Pokopia is a life-simulation game where players build communities and care for Pokémon creatures in a peaceful setting, contrasting with the battle-focused main Pokémon games. The game has developed an audience amongst players seeking creative, non-competitive experiences within the franchise.
Until now, Pokémon Pokopia's gameplay has been limited to above-ground environments where players build and explore. The introduction of underwater exploration represents a substantial expansion of the game's world, allowing players to discover new Pokémon species that inhabit water, construct underwater bases and engage in activities previously unavailable.
This expansion is being introduced through a combination of free additions available to all players and premium paid content. Further expansions are planned through 2027, indicating long-term support for the game and giving players new experiences to enjoy.
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