Pokémon Pokopia was named Game of the Year at the Japan Game Awards 2026, which were held on September 15, Polygon reported. The game, developed by Game Freak and Omega Force, also received an Award for Excellence at the ceremony.
The Pokémon series itself was honored separately with the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award. The wins came during the franchise's 30th anniversary year.
Games released in Japan between June 1, 2025 and May 31, 2026 were eligible. Polygon noted that the window covered a number of well-received releases, including Resident Evil Requiem, Pragmata, Ghost of Yōtei, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and Kirby Air Riders. Pragmata and Meccha Chameleon were among the other titles that picked up awards at the 2026 ceremony.
The award follows a strong commercial run for Pokopia. According to Polygon, the game has sold more than 5 million copies since its release in March, making it the second-best-selling Nintendo Switch 2 game behind Mario Kart World, which was sold in a bundle with the console at launch. Polygon also listed Pokopia fourth in its own running ranking of 2026's Game of the Year front-runners.
Pokopia has continued to receive content since launch. Its first expansion, which had a water theme, added the Bubbly Basin region along with new Pokémon for players to befriend. A second expansion is due before the end of 2026 and is set to include further Pokémon and a large set of accessories.