Pokémon Unite Welcomes Legendary Birds: Zapdos Arrives on Nintendo Switch and Mobile for Pokémon Day 2026
As the Pokémon franchise approaches its landmark 30th anniversary, The Pokémon Company continues the celebration by expanding its popular free-to-play MOBA, Pokémon Unite, available on both Nintendo Switch and mobile devices.
In an exciting announcement ahead of the annual Pokémon Day festivities, developers have confirmed the arrival of three iconic legendary Pokémon: Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres. Zapdos, one of the legendary birds first introduced in Pokémon Red and Blue for the Game Boy, will debut as a playable Pokémon on February 27, 2026, coinciding with Pokémon Day.
According to an official statement from Pokémon Unite, the inclusion of these legendary birds pays homage to the original Pokédex and aims to provide veteran and new players alike with fresh in-game experiences.
Articuno and Moltres are also slated to join the game roster at later dates, further enriching the competitive landscape. Pokémon Unite has garnered a substantial global audience since its initial release in July 2021.
Combining strategic team-based gameplay with the beloved Pokémon universe, the title is accessible to players on the Nintendo Switch, a variety of mobile platforms, and, most recently, the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
This broad platform availability has contributed to Pokémon Unite's enduring popularity and rapid adoption, with tens of millions of downloads reported worldwide within its debut year alone. Developed by TiMi Studio Group and published by The Pokémon Company, Pokémon Unite stands out for its blend of accessible MOBA mechanics, regular live-service updates, and integration of new Pokémon reflecting fan-favorite generations and core franchise nostalgia.
The imminent addition of Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres underscores the developers' commitment to delivering content that resonates with both competitive and casual players. Commenting on the update, a company spokesperson noted the significance of these legendary Pokémon in the franchise's history, expressing excitement for their in-game debut.
"Bringing the legendary birds to Pokémon Unite is a meaningful way to celebrate Pokémon's legacy and provide unique new experiences for our community," the spokesperson stated. In related Pokémon news, the Pokémon Trading Card Game recently unveiled its next major booster set, further illustrating The Pokémon Company's multi-platform approach to keeping the brand at the forefront of gaming and entertainment. As anticipation builds for Pokémon Day and the game’s latest updates, Pokémon Unite remains available for free download through the Nintendo eShop and major mobile app stores, ensuring that players on both Nintendo Switch and mobile devices will be ready to take flight with Zapdos—and soon, Articuno and Moltres.
In an exciting announcement ahead of the annual Pokémon Day festivities, developers have confirmed the arrival of three iconic legendary Pokémon: Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres. Zapdos, one of the legendary birds first introduced in Pokémon Red and Blue for the Game Boy, will debut as a playable Pokémon on February 27, 2026, coinciding with Pokémon Day.
According to an official statement from Pokémon Unite, the inclusion of these legendary birds pays homage to the original Pokédex and aims to provide veteran and new players alike with fresh in-game experiences.
Articuno and Moltres are also slated to join the game roster at later dates, further enriching the competitive landscape. Pokémon Unite has garnered a substantial global audience since its initial release in July 2021.
Combining strategic team-based gameplay with the beloved Pokémon universe, the title is accessible to players on the Nintendo Switch, a variety of mobile platforms, and, most recently, the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
This broad platform availability has contributed to Pokémon Unite's enduring popularity and rapid adoption, with tens of millions of downloads reported worldwide within its debut year alone. Developed by TiMi Studio Group and published by The Pokémon Company, Pokémon Unite stands out for its blend of accessible MOBA mechanics, regular live-service updates, and integration of new Pokémon reflecting fan-favorite generations and core franchise nostalgia.
The imminent addition of Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres underscores the developers' commitment to delivering content that resonates with both competitive and casual players. Commenting on the update, a company spokesperson noted the significance of these legendary Pokémon in the franchise's history, expressing excitement for their in-game debut.
"Bringing the legendary birds to Pokémon Unite is a meaningful way to celebrate Pokémon's legacy and provide unique new experiences for our community," the spokesperson stated. In related Pokémon news, the Pokémon Trading Card Game recently unveiled its next major booster set, further illustrating The Pokémon Company's multi-platform approach to keeping the brand at the forefront of gaming and entertainment. As anticipation builds for Pokémon Day and the game’s latest updates, Pokémon Unite remains available for free download through the Nintendo eShop and major mobile app stores, ensuring that players on both Nintendo Switch and mobile devices will be ready to take flight with Zapdos—and soon, Articuno and Moltres.
