For many kids of the ’90s and early 2000s, Pokemon is a nostalgic memory of trading cards and animated TV shows.
For a small number of players of all ages, the Pokemon games are more competitive. this weekend at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. Hosting the Pokémon Regional Championship, It attracts 4,500 competitors from across the country and an estimated 1,500 spectators.
Fans of the game and curious onlookers can watch battles in the video games Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet, the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG), and Pokémon GO. In this family-friendly event, players compete for the Pokémon Regional Championship title and win championship points and a portion of more than $130,000 in prize money, scholarships, gift cards, and more.
“We’re celebrating the 30th anniversary of Pokémon, and we’re competing with kids as early as elementary school to adults who are still playing. We see the enduring appeal that it has had across generations,” said Nick Salazar, a spokesperson for Pokémon Company International. “This event is aimed not only at competitive players, but also at spectators, loved ones and fans of the game who want to come watch them compete.”
Top players will have a chance to compete at the Pokémon North American International Championship in June, the last stop before the 2026 World Championship in San Francisco in August. The competitive atmosphere also makes for an exciting atmosphere for the audience.
“You can hear the joy and energy in the crowd explode during big plays,” Salazar said.
Non-competitors can participate in side events and earn points throughout the weekend, which can be redeemed for tickets and items on the prize wall. The event will feature many Pokemon goods and vendors.
“There’s always a kid who plays all weekend and earns points and cleans everyone up at side events. I always see them dragging their giant Snorlax or Pikachu stuffed animals around,” Salazar said. “There’s plenty going on this weekend for all Pokemon fans, no matter what you choose to watch.”
Those who are new to the world of playing Pokemon have the opportunity to learn how to play the game better.
“If you’re interested in learning how to play the TCG, you can take the time to learn your first steps with one of our ‘professors,'” Salazar said. “An expert will sit down with you and show you the ropes.”
The world of Pokémon has been around for 30 years, and the game has a lasting appeal that transcends generations.
“I like to see parents handing down their decks and letting their kids play video games or show them video games,” Salazar said. “We’re really happy to see people still falling in love with the game 30 years later, and it just keeps getting bigger.”
Find @PConnPie on Instagram or email pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com. Stay up to date on travel, arts and events by subscribing to our newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters.
If you go
of The 2026 Pokémon Orlando Regional Championship will be open at 9800 International Drive in Orlando on April 3rd from noon to 7pm, April 4th from 7am to 8pm (estimated) and April 5th from 7:30am to 8pm (estimated). Spectator passes are $20 each. For those unable to attend in person, the contest will also be streamed on Twitch and YouTube. More information: Championships.pokemon.com
