Love Pokémon? Looking to grab the perfect gift for the devoted Poké fan in your life? Great news, as on October 18, the UK’s first ever pop-up Pokémon Center will be throwing open its doors at Westfield London, Shepherd's Bush, for 4 weeks. The shop is springing up in time to celebrate the release of Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, giving UK fans the chance to snap up some brilliant bits of merchandise that they won’t be able to get anywhere else.
To prepare you for this event, we’re going over five big reasons why you’ll want to make time to head out to this brand new Pokemon Center. Make sure you’re quick though, as you’ll have until November 15 to snag something special from the store.
1. It’s the UK’s first ever Pokémon Center
Pokémon Centers of various sizes have historically been based in Japan, Singapore, or the United States, making this one the first of any kind in the UK. While fans based on this side of the Atlantic have been able to get goodies through the Nintendo Official UK Store, this pop-up store not only gives you a chance to fully immerse yourself in the world of Pokémon, it’ll also offer some extra special items…
2. There’ll be exclusive Pokémon Gear
Yep, if you take the time out to visit this Pokemon Center, you’ll be rewarded with the chance to nab some merchandise that won’t be available anywhere else. One such gem could be this very sharp lad, the London City Pikachu. Turns out the electric Pokémon is still utterly adorable when dressed to the nines in a suit.
Bringing charm, sophistication and shockingly good looks... It’s our new favourite gentleman, London City Pikachu! 😍Available exclusively at #PokemonCenterLondon! https://t.co/3dAkFiTHdI pic.twitter.com/94cTq05HLOSeptember 30, 2019
3. Get 10% off the Nintendo Official UK Store
The Nintendo Official UK Store has plenty of Pokémon merchandise, games, and consoles for fans of all things Nintendo. And if you head to the Pokemon Center, you’ll be able to get 10% off any order thanks to the GamesRadar+ Presents: The Ultimate Guide to Nintendo 2019/2020 catalogue you can pick up there. The 132-page catalogue not only includes that great offer, but also gives a rundown of what games you can expect on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo 3DS over the coming months, as well as a Switch’s buyers guide if you’re yet to buy one.
4. You can play Pokémon Sword & Pokémon Shield early
The Pokémon Center in London is being set-up to celebrate the launch of Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield on November 15, so what better way to kick off the festivities than playing the game itself? There’ll be demos of the new adventure for visitors to get their hands on, giving you an early taste of the Galar Region and some of the new creatures you’ll be trying to catch.
Plus, if you pre-order Pokémon Sword and Shield right there at the Pokémon Centre, you'll nab yourself some adorable exclusive pins featuring the new Gen 8 Starter Pokémon, and the original chubby Pikachu design.
5. It’s great for fans of any age
Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or take along some dedicated friends and family, this new London Pokémon Center promises to give fans of any age a perfect opportunity to grab something special for their collection and meet like-minded trainers. Whether it’s snagging that adorable Pikachu plushie or getting an early go on Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, there’s plenty to ensure that no matter your age, this is a trip worth taking.
Can’t make it to the Pokémon Center but still want to get 10% off any order on the Nintendo Official Store UK? Request a copy of the GamesRadar+ Presents: The Ultimate Guide to Nintendo 2019/2020 here
