According to the latest Pokemon Day Presents broadcast, the MOBA is popular Pokemon CONNECT is getting a massive roster expansion featuring iconic Kanto legends Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres, and fan-favorite starter Johto. Players can expect the trio to arrive Pokemon CONNECT next to the starters of the second generation.
The announcement comes at a historic moment for the pocket monster franchise. February 27 marks the 30th anniversary of its founding Pokemon series, a milestone that celebrates three decades of catching, training and fighting. Since its launch in 2021 Pokemon CONNECT has carved its own niche in the world of multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) by bringing team-based strategy to the world. Pokemon universe on Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. The game has consistently expanded its playable licenses to keep the meta fresh, but fans have been clamoring for more representation from earlier generations. This anniversary update serves not only as a content drop, but as a tribute to the legacy that began in Kanto and Johto years ago.
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The Legendary Birds Join the Fray
A major highlight of the presentation was the official confirmation that three legendary birds – Zapdos, Articuno and Moltres – are transitioning from powerful map objectives to fully playable characters. While Twitter updates confirmed the arrival of the trio, Game Freak clarified that they won't all be landing at once. Officially available since February 27th, Zapdos takes on the role of a high damage attacker. Moltres and Articuno will soon follow with a series of special events to fill the All-Rounder and Defender slots.
Aside from Kanto Legends, the Pokemon Presents broadcast confirmed that the Johto starters – Chikorita, Cyndaquil and Totodile – will finally reach their final form on the island of Aeos. While official release dates for all three are still pending, data mining and leaks shared by community insiders like ElChicoEevee suggest that Meganium will likely be the first to sprout.
While the Legendary Birds are an immediate target for many, Johto's starter evolutions are expected to bring much-needed variety to their respective roles. Meganium is set to break the mold of typical grass All-Rounders by making his debut as a dedicated supporter. This choice was appreciated Pokemon community on Reddit, where users commented that the bulky plant-based healer was “perfectly suited” for the role. Megania's set is said to be built around utility, featuring moves like Magical Leaf and Grass Knot to block opponents, while Synthesis provides support to her teammates.
In contrast, Typhlosion is expected to fulfill the imagination of competitive players as an attacking striker. The role is consistent with Typhlosion's main story as a glass cannon that uses Eruption to decimate teams. Although the official moves are still under wraps, there is strong speculation that it could also feature the Flame Wheel as an early game mobility option.
Feraligatr, the final piece of the Johto trio, is a versatile player who specializes in physical brawls. Discussions in the community suggest that Feraligatr will likely follow a traditional evolution path, starting as a high pressure Totodil before becoming a late game powerhouse. Insiders suggest that these three additions will land squarely in the S-tier, potentially forcing a massive reshuffling of the current tier list as players adjust to their unique mechanics.
The addition of these six heavy-hitters is expected to significantly shake up the current meta. Early ratings place these new additions in the S-tier, potentially surpassing current favorites upon release. To help players unlock these new licenses, a special anniversary event is currently active, giving everyone a way to add legendary birds to their collection. This is a welcome change for players who have recently expressed frustration with the license path system, as these events typically allow free unlocks through consistent play.
While UNITE fans have something to celebrate, the Pokemon Presents stream covered a lot more ground for the franchise's 30th. 10th generation Pokemonwith the name Pokemon Winds and Waveswas teased for release in 2027. Plus, a GameCube classic Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness heading to Nintendo Switch Online and Pokemon Champions received an April 2026 release date.
The road ahead Pokemon CONNECT looks busier than ever. Between the immediate arrival of Zapdos and the impending debut of Johto's starters, the 30th anniversary is delivering the high-impact content the community has been craving. Whether players want to dive into the new Electrode Volleyball World Tour or earn points for Moltres, the next few months will be crucial for the MOBA's legacy.
