Pokémon Unite to Cease Operations in Belgium and Netherlands by 2025

The Pokémon Company and TiMi have announced that Pokémon Unite will be discontinued in Belgium and the Netherlands, with the game set to be unavailable for download on mobile and Switch devices from November 30, 2025. As of October 31, 2024, subscriptions and in-game items will no longer be available for purchase. Although the reason behind this decision was not explicitly stated, it is likely linked to the stringent regulations surrounding loot boxes in these regions. Pokémon Unite features a Prize Machine mechanic, which allows players to acquire cosmetic items using in-game currency bought with real money. Given that loot boxes are prohibited in Belgium due to gambling laws, and the Netherlands is pursuing a similar ban, this shutdown is seen as a response to these regulatory pressures.