Pokémon Pokopia launched its first major paid downloadable content, Bubbly Basin, on August 5, 2026, exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 players worldwide. The DLC introduces a new underwater town and exploration areas featuring aquatic-themed furniture, outfits, crops, and water-type Pokémon such as Totodile, Popplio, Mudkip, Corsola, and Sharpedo [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6].
Alongside the DLC, a free update added the Dive ability, allowing Ditto to breathe underwater and access previously unreachable locations. This update is available to all players without needing to purchase the expansion [1, 2, 3, 4, 6]. Players can now build underwater structures using new buoyant blocks, raise the environment level, and create habitats suitable for aquatic Pokémon. New crops like watermelons and recipes including smoothies were also introduced [2, 3, 5, 6].
The Bubbly Basin expansion pass costs $34.99 and includes two additional DLC updates: one planned for late 2026 focusing on customization and new accessories for Ditto and other Pokémon, and another for 2027 that will add a new town and more characters [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6].
By March 2026, Pokémon Pokopia had sold over 4 million units, securing its position as one of the best-selling titles on the Nintendo Switch 2 platform [1]. The game blends elements from Pokémon, Minecraft, Stardew Valley, and Dragon Quest Builders, offering a unique hybrid experience [1, 5].
The Bubbly Basin DLC also contains hidden underwater secrets like dark caves illuminated by neon coral, adding a layer of exploration depth and intrigue for players [3, 5]. Pokémon's official Twitter account confirmed the DLC rollout saying, "The #PokemonPokopia Expansion Pass paid DLC Part 1: Bubbly Basin releases August 5, 2026" [3].
A summer in-game event titled "Help Feebas Collect Beautiful Scales" is scheduled to run from August 13 through August 28, 2026, providing players additional activities tied to the underwater theme [6].
