Since most of the game takes place online, it's natural to wonder whether Pokemon Champions requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership.
Though it's considered a free game, Pokemon Champions has some paid content, but whether it is truly free-to-play depends on whether you need the separate NSO subscription. We've done some testing, and have all the answers right here.
Does Pokemon Champions require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription?
No, Pokemon Champions doesn't require a NSO subscription. You aren't even restricted to playing with friends, and can embark on online battles without a membership to the online service.
Pokemon Champions works in a similar fashion to Pokemon Unite, another free Nintendo game which doesn't require the subscription to play online. Since you don't need NSO to use Pokemon Home either, you can also recruit Pokemon to Champions from Home for free, as well.
The official Pokemon Champions website does state that a Nintendo Switch Online membership is required to access some Champions content, though we're yet to work out what that is. It could be referring the ability to participate in Online Competitions, which we'll confirm when the next one goes live.
As you're preparing for battle, don't forget to check out the latest Pokemon Champions Mystery Gift codes.
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