Welcome to this week's Pokémon news roundup for September 9, 2026. We have major updates across multiple titles, including a massive update for Pokémon Champions, a brand-new season in Pokémon GO, and limited-time events in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. Let us dive into what you need to play this week.
Champions Update and Scarlet and Violet Raids
Today marks the launch of Version 1.2 for the turn-based strategy spin-off Pokémon Champions. Developed by The Pokémon Works, this update introduces Ranked Battle Season M-6 and Regulation M-C. Players can now use 34 newly added Pokémon, including competitive favorites like Rillaboom, Cinderace, and 'Indeedee'. Additionally, six powerful Mega Evolutions make their debut, featuring 'Mega Lucario Z', 'Mega Garchomp Z', and 'Mega Absol Z'.
Meanwhile, players of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet have only a short time left to challenge a formidable opponent. The 7-Star Black Crystal Tera Raid event featuring a Grass-type Mighty Meowscarada is ending on September 10, 2026, at 23:59 UTC. Make sure to log in and defeat this starter Pokémon before it leaves the rotation.
Pokémon GO Twilight Trails and Community Day
In mobile news, Niantic has officially kicked off the Twilight Trails season in Pokémon GO, which runs until December 1, 2026. This season introduces Paldean favorites Maschiff and Mabosstiff to the wild. Furthermore, players can challenge new Dynamax encounters, including Dynamax Uxie, Mesprit, and Azelf. The introductory Mega Squads event is currently live until September 14, and trainers should prepare for the Gible Community Day Classic taking place this Saturday, September 12.
TCG 30th Celebration and Legends Z-A Gifts
Looking ahead to next week, the Pokémon Trading Card Game is preparing for the historic launch of the 30th Celebration expansion on September 16, 2026. This is the first-ever simultaneous worldwide release for the TCG, consisting entirely of foil cards. It introduces the new Futuristic Rare rarity tier illustrated by YOSHIROTTEN, alongside 30 unique Pikachu illustrations and a Classic Collection of historic reprints.
Finally, players exploring Lumiose City in Pokémon Legends: Z-A can still claim valuable active Mystery Gift codes. Enter the code PREPAR1NG before March 31, 2027, to receive a bundle of Max Revives, Full Restores, and Ultra Balls. Additionally, players who have completed the main campaign can claim Mewtwonite X and Y Mega Stones via the Internet menu to unlock the Project M side mission to catch Mewtwo.