Full Breakdown
Pokémon Pokopia’s Bubbly Basin DLC Expands Underwater Play and Treasure Hunting
8/9/2026, 3:43:15 AM
Core Event: Bubbly Basin DLC Launch Introduces Diving and New Content
Pokémon Pokopia’s first expansion, Bubbly Basin, launched on the Nintendo Switch 2 in early August 2026. The DLC adds a new underwater-themed town that becomes accessible after raising the Bleak Beach area to Level 5. Central to the expansion is a diving mechanic that lets players explore submerged environments.
Background & Context: Pokopia’s Rise and Design Origins
Pokopia debuted in March 2026 and quickly became a system-seller for the Switch 2, moving over 4 million copies in its first five weeks. Game Freak’s Shigeru Ohmori explained that the game’s prototype emerged as development on Pokémon Scarlet/Violet concluded, initially built by a three-person team before expanding to five. The title blends sandbox building with life-simulation, positioning Ditto as a human-shaped protagonist who restores a post-apocalyptic Kanto region.
Player Tips for Underwater Navigation
Many players reported that the default sinking speed feels sluggish. He also noted that holding the B and L buttons simultaneously provides a slightly faster paddle than simply letting the character sink.
Dowsing Machine Guide and Treasure Mechanics
The Dowsing Machine, introduced in the base game, enables players to locate buried treasure. Daniel González detailed the process on 8 August 2026:
1. Equip the Dowsing Machine so Ditto holds it.
2. Walk while pressing A; a Search-specialty Pokémon (e.g., Pidgey, Zubat, Dreepy, Venomoth) beeps to indicate proximity.
3. When the Pokémon points a direction, move a short distance and press A again to continue the cue.
4. Repeat until the Pokémon stops and signals treasure beneath its position, then strike the ground to reveal a glowing block.
The machine can uncover random Lost Relics, fossils, music CDs, mural slates, and dolls. A single copy suffices, though additional copies can be crafted using a Pokémetal at a Workbench after unlocking the recipe.
New Content Overview: Pokémon, Town, and Fixes
Bubbly Basin introduces 50 new Pokémon, primarily Water-type such as Totodile, Staryu, Mudkip, Sharpedo, and Corphish. The DLC also resolves a long-standing issue: players can no longer lose in-game items. Access to the expansion requires the Expansion Pass, priced at $34.99/£29.99.
Upcoming DLC Teasers and Future Plans
Following Bubbly Basin, the second DLC has been teased with a focus on fashion, allowing players to dress Pokémon in various accessories. Details on a potential third DLC remain sparse, though speculation suggests the inclusion of legendary Pokémon. Developers have hinted that a second Expansion Pass could appear in the future.
Data & Statistics
- Copies sold (first five weeks): > 4 million
- New Pokémon added: 50
- Expansion Pass price: $34.99/£29.99
What’s Next
- Second DLC: Fashion-focused content, release date not announced.
- Potential third DLC: Possible legendary Pokémon, details pending.
- Future Expansion Pass: Possibility of a second pass mentioned by developers, timing unspecified.
The Bubbly Basin expansion deepens Pokopia’s sandbox experience by adding underwater exploration, a treasure-hunting tool, and a substantial roster of new Pokémon, while upcoming content promises further customization and expansion of the game’s world.
