Just days after the release of Resident Evil Requiem, Nintendo has delivered another heavyweight contender for 2026’s Game of the Year conversation. Pokémon Pokopia, the latest spin-off in the legendary franchise, is debuting to critical acclaim, currently holding the title of the highest-scoring game of 2026 on Metacritic.
Ahead of its official release on March 5 for the Switch 2, Pokopia boasts an 89 Metascore based on reviews from four dozen critics. This places it just above the former co-leaders, Resident Evil Requiem and Mewgenics, though the ranking could shift as more reviews pour in.
While 2026 is still young, the competition is shaping up. Other notable releases include Nioh 3 (86), Mario Tennis Fever (77), and Code Vein II (70). But Pokopia and RE9 are currently the year’s biggest critical heavyweights.
What Is Pokémon Pokopia?
For those unfamiliar, Pokopia is far from a traditional Pokémon adventure. The game puts players in control of a Ditto imitating a human, offering a completely fresh perspective. Key features include:
Crafting & Building: Players construct and upgrade their environment to befriend new Pokémon.
Move Acquisition: Befriended Pokémon teach the Ditto new moves, which are used to interact with the world.
Dynamic World: The game features a real-world time-linked day/night cycle and diverse biomes to explore.
Progression: Building up the area attracts more Pokémon, creating a rewarding loop of expansion and discovery.
This inventive spin on the formula has clearly resonated with critics, positioning Pokémon Pokopia as a must-play title for Switch 2 owners and a strong early contender for game of the year.
