Pokémon UNITE players are fighting to keep the game alive after The Pokémon Company announced that the free-to-play multiplayer game will permanently shut down on March 23, 2027.
A Change.org petition, launched Oct. 27 by William Weinert, has already collected more than 2,800 signatures. The petition asks The Pokémon Company, TiMi Studio Group, Tencent Games, and Nintendo to reconsider the decision and work with players to find a way to keep the game running.
The petition comes after The Pokémon Company confirmed the shutdown on Oct. 27. The company did not explain why it was ending the service.
Developed by TiMi Studio Group, Pokémon UNITE launched on Nintendo Switch in July 2021 before arriving on mobile devices that September. The game features five-on-five battles in which players control Pokémon, defeat opponents, and score points.
Players Want Changes, Not a Shutdown
The petition argues that Pokémon UNITE still has potential but needs improvements to keep its community engaged.
Supporters are calling for fairer matchmaking, more affordable Holowear cosmetics, better tutorials for new players, and improved communication from developers.
The petition also criticizes differences between the global and Chinese versions of the game. According to its organizer, the Chinese version includes social features and Pokémon interactions that players outside China have not received.
Players are also asking the companies to explain why the game is closing and whether alternatives were considered.
Some complaints existed long before the shutdown announcement. Players previously criticized the License Journey system, which changed how playable Pokémon are unlocked, along with the game’s pricing and progression systems.
Despite those frustrations, supporters believe the game deserves another chance. The petition asks the companies to work with the community rather than permanently closing the servers.
So far, there has been no indication that the petition will change the shutdown plans.
What Happens Before the Shutdown?
Although the game’s future remains uncertain, The Pokémon Company has announced several activities for its remaining months.
Sales of Aeos gems, the game’s premium currency, ended Oct. 27. Players can continue spending existing gems until the servers close.
A Grand Shop Sale is also underway, with discounts of up to 80% on select cosmetics and other items.
A Nov. 12 update will introduce special events that allow players to earn previously released Pokémon licenses, Holowear, and other rewards.
The update will also include a library feature allowing players to preserve certain account records, cosmetics, and achievements after the shutdown. Players must complete the required library data download before the servers close to use the feature afterward.
Final Tournament Still Scheduled
The Pokémon Company confirmed that the Pokémon UNITE Aeos Crown 2027 Tokyo tournament will continue as planned.
Qualifying matches begin Dec. 5, with the finals scheduled for March 20-21, just days before the shutdown. The competition will feature 32 teams and a $1 million prize pool.
After March 23, players will no longer be able to log in or participate in online battles.
Those hoping to save the game can read or support the petition to keep Pokémon UNITE running.
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