Pokémon Pokopia's first DLC, Bubbly Basin, launches August 5, introducing underwater exploration and new building mechanics.
ManaphyPokémonThe Pokémon CompanyNintendo

Pokémon Pokopia's first DLC, Bubbly Basin, launches August 5, introducing underwater exploration and new building mechanics.

Pokémon Pokopia's first DLC, Bubbly Basin, launches on August 5, introducing underwater exploration through the new Dive move, buoyant blocks for unique building mechanics, and additional Pokémon and outfits. The expansion is part of a $35 Expansion Pass, which includes future content drops.

Engadget+2 sources29 July 2026 · 20:40 UTC
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Pokémon Pokopia's first DLC, Bubbly Basin, is set to launch on August 5, 2026, for the Nintendo Switch 2. This expansion introduces an underwater town, allowing players to explore new depths with the free Dive move and construct unique buildings using buoyant blocks.123457

Players can access the new underwater area, which resembles the ruins of Cerulean City, and discover additional Pokémon, outfits, and a power-up for the Surf move. The Expansion Pass costs $34.99 and includes all three major DLC drops, with Bubbly Basin being the first part.6

The free update will enable all players to learn the Dive move from Manaphy, enhancing gameplay by allowing exploration of previously inaccessible areas. The expansion also features new ocean-themed furniture for building floating houses, which can be illuminated by Chinchou's electricity at night.

Nintendo has released a deep-dive video showcasing the upcoming updates, emphasizing the exciting new mechanics and content players can expect. The second part of the Expansion Pass, scheduled for late 2026, will introduce Pokémon accessories, further enriching the gaming experience.

With the launch of Bubbly Basin, Pokémon Pokopia aims to deepen player engagement and creativity in its vibrant world.

Key Insight
“The Bubbly Basin expansion will feature a new Dive move, allowing players to explore underwater environments, and includes buoyant blocks for unique building opportunities. Additionally, the Expansion Pass, priced at $34.99, grants access to all three major DLC drops planned for the game.”
CuriousCats studied:
1
Engadget
“Pokémon Pokopia's first DLC comes to Switch 2 on August 5”
Engadget →
2
Pokemon PressPokemon Press
BELLEVUE, Wash. – July 29, 2026 – Today, The Pokémon Company group revealed that Part 1 of the *Pokémon Pokopia* Expansion Pass paid DLC is set to release on August 5 for the Nintendo Switch 2 system.”
Pokemon Press →
3
Game InformerGame Informer
“Nintendo has released an extended deep-dive video showcasing Pokémon Pokopia’s upcoming free Dive update and paid Bubbly Basin expansion.”
Game Informer →
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