Universal Destinations & Experiences and The Pokémon Company have announced plans to develop a new Pokémon-themed experience for Universal theme parks. This first long-term Pokemon-themed experience is set to be “innovative, immersive, and world-class.” The “ultra-real” experience will allow fans to walk into the Pokemon world for themselves. The initial focus of the project will be Universal Studios Japan, though the company has already announced it would like to make similar experiences at other Universal properties.
Key art for Pokémon GO (2024), Niantic
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The announcement did not come with many specifics. The description suggests a themed-area, especially given Universal’s recent push toward immersive themed lands. However, Universal has not explicitly stated whether the new Pokemon “experience” will be a themed area, ride, or a collection of interactive elements. Executives described the project as an immersive experience without offering design specifics.
Starting in Japan
Universal Studios Japan has collaborated with The Pokémon Company in the past. Since 2021, the park has hosted limited-time Pokémon-themed parades and seasonal entertainment offerings. Those projects were temporary and did not involve permanent infrastructure. The newly announced initiative marks the first publicly confirmed effort to create a long-term Pokémon presence at a Universal theme park.
A screenshot from Pokémon Violet (2022), Nintendo
Launching the Pokémon experience in Japan aligns with the franchise’s origins and continued popularity in the region. Pokémon was created in Japan in 1996 and has maintained a strong cultural presence there. Universal Studios Japan has also been used previously as a testing location for major projects before their introduction to other markets.
The announcement to make a Pokemon a more permanent theme park staple comes as the franchise celebrates its 30th anniversary. According to Universal, Japan will serve as the starting point for the experience. The company stated that it intends to expand Pokémon-themed offerings to other Universal parks around the world. However, Universal did not identify specific locations outside Japan or commit to a rollout schedule.
Bringing Pokemon to the Parks
Universal executives framed the partnership as part of the company’s broader strategy to invest in established intellectual properties. In recent years, Universal has focused heavily on branded attractions tied to well-known entertainment franchises. These include Nintendo properties, Illumination films, and DreamWorks Animation characters.
At the time of the announcement, Universal and The Pokémon Company did not release concept art or design previews. No permit filings or construction notices have been made public. Both companies stated that additional details will be shared once development advances further.
Key art for Pokémon UNITE (2021), TiMi Studio Group
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The Pokémon franchise spans video games, animated television series, films, merchandise, and mobile applications. In the Japan Universal park, Pokemon occasionally appears for seasonal and limited-time events, live shows, and parade appearances. However, this will push the brand toward a more permanent place in the theme park landscape. Theme park operators increasingly rely on established brands to support long-term attendance and global recognition.
Universal and The Pokémon Company did not disclose financial terms related to the partnership. Representatives from both organizations emphasized that the project remains in early development.
Key art for Pokémon GO (2024), Niantic
Further updates are expected as planning progresses. Until then, details regarding scale, capacity, and guest interaction remain unconfirmed.
What do you hope to see out of a Pokemon experience at Universal? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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