Pokémon UNITE, The Pokémon Company’s 5v5 mobile MOBA, will be shutting down in Belgium and the Netherlands, as announced by the publisher. Here’s an overview of the affected regions and the reasons behind the decision.
Pokémon UNITE to End Service in Belgium and the Netherlands by 2025
In an official blog post, The Pokémon Company revealed that Pokémon UNITE will cease operations in Belgium and the Netherlands on November 30, 2025. Additionally, in-game purchases will no longer be available in these regions as of October 31, 2024. This means players in these countries who wish to buy Aeos Gems or subscriptions will need to do so before this date.
Reasons Behind the Shutdown
Although The Pokémon Company did not provide a detailed explanation, the decision likely stems from Belgium’s ban on loot boxes, which the country classifies as a form of gambling. The Netherlands, while not yet having a formal ban, is actively pursuing similar restrictions.
In a message to players, the publisher expressed gratitude and apologized for any inconvenience caused, thanking the Belgian and Dutch communities for their support.
This decision is specific to regulatory issues, and it is unlikely that Pokémon UNITE will shut down in other regions. It reflects compliance with local laws rather than a broader decline in the game’s popularity.
About Pokémon UNITE
Launched in 2020 on Android, iOS, and Nintendo Switch, Pokémon UNITE introduced a fresh take on the MOBA genre with quick 10-minute battles featuring teams of five players. Despite a more casual gameplay style, the game has successfully established an esports presence. The recent Pokémon UNITE World Championship in August 2024 offered a $500,000 prize pool, with Japan’s FENNEL taking the championship title in Honolulu, Hawaii.
