Pokémon Pokopia’s Bubbly Basin Expansion Dives In on August 5
The Pokémon Company has officially confirmed that the first paid expansion for Pokémon Pokopia, titled Bubbly Basin, will launch on August 5, 2026, kicking off the game’s three-part Expansion Pass.
Alongside the paid DLC, all players will also receive a free game update that introduces one of the most requested features since launch underwater exploration using the move Dive.
With new locations, Pokémon, activities, and even Pokémon customisation arriving later this year, the Expansion Pass is shaping up to significantly expand the world of Pokopia.
Dive Beneath the Surface
Available to every player as part of the free August update, the new Dive ability allows Trainers to explore beneath the ocean for the first time.
Previously inaccessible underwater environments will open up, revealing hidden paths, rare Pokémon, collectibles, and secrets waiting to be discovered beneath the waves.
The free update ensures every player can experience underwater exploration, regardless of whether they purchase the Expansion Pass.
Welcome to Bubbly Basin
Players who purchase the Expansion Pass will gain access to Bubbly Basin, an entirely new area to explore.
Unlike the existing islands found throughout Pokopia, Bubbly Basin introduces a vibrant seaside town surrounded by crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and new habitats filled with Pokémon.
According to The Pokémon Company, the expansion adds:
- A brand-new town
- New Pokémon habitats
- Additional quests and activities
- New characters to meet
- Fresh areas to explore both above and below the water
The expansion forms Part 1 of the three-part Expansion Pass announced earlier this year.
Part Two Revealed
The Pokémon Company also shared the first details about Part 2 of the Expansion Pass, which is scheduled to release later in 2026.
One of its headline features will allow players to dress up their Pokémon companions using a variety of cosmetic outfits and accessories.
While only a brief teaser has been shown so far, it appears players will be able to personalise their favourite Pokémon with different styles, giving them an even greater role in everyday life around Pokopia.
More details about Part 2 are expected closer to release.
A Three-Part Adventure
The Expansion Pass will be released across three separate updates:
Part 1 — Bubbly Basin
Release Date: August 5, 2026
Features:
- New town
- New quests
- New exploration areas
- Paid DLC
Free Update
Also launching August 5:
- Dive ability
- Underwater exploration
- Available to all players
Part 2
Coming Late 2026
Confirmed Feature:
- Dress up your Pokémon friends with cosmetic outfits
Part 3
Coming in 2027
The Pokémon Company has yet to reveal what the final chapter of the Expansion Pass will include.
Pokémon Pokopia Continues to Grow
Since launching earlier this year, Pokémon Pokopia has continued to receive regular updates, seasonal events, and new content.
Recent additions have included:
- The Jirachi event
- Special Dream Island activities
- Free content updates
- Expansion Pass announcements
The August update marks the game’s largest content drop so far, introducing both a significant free feature and the first paid expansion.
Watch the Official Trailer
The announcement was accompanied by a brand-new trailer showcasing the Bubbly Basin DLC in action.
The video gives players a first look at:
- Underwater exploration using Dive
- The colourful new Bubbly Basin region
- New Pokémon encounters
- Additional story content
- A teaser for the upcoming Pokémon outfit customisation feature arriving in Part 2.
