Pokémon Unite to End Service in Belgium and The Netherlands: All the Details

Pokémon Unite, the hit strategic team battle game from The Pokémon Company, will soon be unavailable to players in Belgium and The Netherlands.

As part of an official announcement made by The Pokémon Company, the service for Pokémon Unite will be discontinued in these countries over the next year, affecting thousands of Nintendo Switch and mobile users who have enjoyed the title since its global launch. Launched in July 2021 on Nintendo Switch and shortly after on mobile devices, Pokémon Unite introduced a new style of multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) gameplay to the Pokémon franchise.

The game quickly earned high praise for its accessible controls, competitive play, and frequent updates that kept the experience engaging for its large international community.

However, regulatory challenges in specific regions have created new obstacles for the game’s continued operation. According to The Pokémon Company, players in Belgium and The Netherlands will no longer be able to register new accounts or renew current memberships for Pokémon Unite as of October 31, 2024.

Additionally, the ability to purchase premium currency such as Aeos Gems in these areas will also end on that date.

The company has set November 30, 2025, as the final day the game will be available to play in both countries, providing existing players with a transition period of just over a year before the service concludes. A representative from The Pokémon Company stated that all affected features and services will be gradually phased out in compliance with local regulations.

While the official statement did not specify a reason for the shutdown, Belgium and The Netherlands are recognized within the gaming industry for rigorous laws concerning loot boxes and similar in-game monetization systems.

These regulations have previously impacted other Pokémon franchise titles, such as Pokémon Masters EX and Pokémon TCG Pocket, which are also unavailable in these regions due to compliance issues. Pokémon Unite's removal marks a significant change for fans in Belgium and The Netherlands, where the game has maintained a passionate and active community.

As part of their announcement, The Pokémon Company extended appreciation to all players in the affected countries and provided clear guidance on the remaining service timeline, ensuring transparency throughout the wind-down process. Since its release, Pokémon Unite has achieved widespread success on the Nintendo Switch and other platforms, receiving multiple updates, new Pokémon introductions, and worldwide competitive events.

The upcoming closure in these territories does not impact service in other regions, where players can continue to access the game via the Nintendo Switch eShop and mobile app stores. For players in Belgium and The Netherlands, now is the time to enjoy their remaining matches and prepare for the conclusion of Pokémon Unite’s service in the region.

The Pokémon Company encourages users to follow official channels for further updates and support during the transition period.

Pokémon The Pokémon Company Pokémon Company Pokémon Unite Nintendo Switch Belgium The Netherlands