Category Archives: Shop and Merchandise

Manga Anime, Shop and Merchandise

Danganronpa × Sanrio Collab Announced: 16 Character Pairings Hit Loft Japan This September

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Two of the most iconic names in Japanese pop culture just announced a collab nobody knew they needed — and the result is a whole lot of chaotic cute. Spike Chunsoft’s Danganronpa series and Sanrio have officially revealed a major merchandise crossover featuring 16 brand-new character pairings drawn by illustrator Kei Mochizuki, rolling out at Loft stores across Japan from 11 September 2026.

Danganronpa x Sanrio framed posters for each game
Image courtesy of Spike Chunsoft / Sanrio

Who Gets Paired With Who?

The collab pulls characters from all three mainline games — the original Danganronpa, Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair, and Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony — and matches each with a Sanrio character that, in many cases, fits a little too well. Makoto Naegi lands with the ever-cheerful Cinnamoroll. Kyoko Kirigiri is paired with the understated Marroncream. Celestia Ludenberg gets Kuromi. Junko Enoshima — naturally — is with Hello Kitty. Kiyotaka Ishimaru ends up with Ahiru no Pekkle, which honestly makes perfect sense. Over in V3, Kokichi Oma gets Kuromi, Shuichi Saihara gets Pochacco, and Kaede Akamatsu is matched with the musical My Sweet Piano.

All 16 Danganronpa x Sanrio character pairing cards
Image courtesy of Spike Chunsoft / Sanrio

The Merchandise Lineup

Kei Mochizuki’s new character art appears across more than 20 product types, from entry-level collectibles to premium home goods. The lineup includes trading acrylic keychains (¥770), instant photo-style cards, matte badges, acrylic stands with glitter variants, clear files, sticker sheets, mugs, pouches, tote bags, T-shirts, towels, and long tapestries (up to ¥8,250). Each piece of merchandise leans into the pairing theme — expect Kuromi colour palettes on Celestia items and Cinnamoroll motifs woven through Naegi’s merch. Fans who spend ¥2,000 or more on eligible collab products will also receive one randomly selected illustration card from the full 16-design set, while stocks last.

Danganronpa x Sanrio DR1 characters group illustration by Kei Mochizuki
Image courtesy of Spike Chunsoft / Sanrio

When and Where — and What About Online Orders?

The limited-time pop-up runs from 11 September to 16 October 2026 at Loft stores in Shibuya, Kyoto, Omiya, Tenjin, Sakae, Sapporo, Niigata, Machida, Umeda, and Sendai. Singapore fans won’t be able to walk in, but this is a Japan-exclusive retail pop-up — the good news is that Spike Chunsoft has indicated online ordering details are on the way. Until then, the usual forwarding services and proxy-buying routes are your best bet for grabbing any must-have pieces. Given how quickly Danganronpa collab runs tend to sell out, it’s worth setting up a proxy account early. Keep an eye on the official Danganronpa site for the online store announcement. The Danganronpa community in Singapore has a strong cosplay and collector presence — expect plenty of interest in the acrylic stands and tapestries especially. For more anime and game collab news, stay tuned to GameTrader.

Manga Anime, Shop and Merchandise

Pokémon feat. Hatsune Miku VOLTAGE Live! Blu-ray Out 26 August — Full Setlist, 108-Page Book

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The first live concert to put Hatsune Miku and Pokémon on the same stage is getting a proper home release: Pokémon feat. Hatsune Miku VOLTAGE Live! hits Blu-ray on 26 August 2026 — and the special edition is genuinely stacked with extras.

Hatsune Miku floating with Pikachu and Meloetta - VOLTAGE Live! key art by Take
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company / Crypton Future Media

What Was the Pokémon × Hatsune Miku VOLTAGE Live! Concert?

Project VOLTAGE launched on 29 September 2023 as a landmark crossover between The Pokémon Company and Crypton Future Media: 18 songs, 18 Pokémon types, 18 different Vocaloid producers — each pairing Hatsune Miku with one Pokémon type in a full original track and music video. A follow-up arc, Project VOLTAGE High ↑, added more songs and artwork across 2024, making it one of the most expansive music collaborations in the franchise’s 30-year history.

VOLTAGE Live! — announced on 31 August 2025 as a second-anniversary celebration — took all of that into a physical arena. Six performances across three days (20–22 March 2026) at LaLa arena TOKYO-BAY in Funabashi City, with the evening show on 22 March streamed live on Abema. Virtual singers Hatsune Miku, Kagamine Rin, Kagamine Len, Megurine Luka, MEIKO, and KAITO performed, with Kasane Teto joining as a special guest. A total of 39 Pokémon — including Pikachu and Meloetta — appeared alongside them across all 27 songs, marking what the official Project VOLTAGE X account called the first time in history that virtual singers and Pokémon performed together on the same stage.

Hatsune Miku and Meloetta on a concert stage - VOLTAGE Live! second promotional art
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company / Crypton Future Media

What Is Inside the VOLTAGE Live! Blu-ray Special Edition

The Blu-ray captures the full evening setlist from 22 March — all 27 Project VOLTAGE songs — at approximately 118 minutes, encoded on a dual-layer disc with DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1ch surround sound and Japanese lyric subtitles. The disc also includes a fixed-angle FULL STAGE! documentary cut, giving you an alternative wide-stage view of the entire performance.

The special edition bundle (特装盤) includes a substantial haul of physical extras:

  • 108-page MEMORIAL REPORT! book — live concert photos, the complete 18-types Hatsune Miku character illustration set, and exclusive director’s notes for every song
  • Two-piece acrylic stand set featuring Hatsune Miku and Meloetta
  • 18-card postcard set — one for each Pokémon type, matching the original Project VOLTAGE artwork
  • Special rigid-case packaging with a luxury holographic digipak, main visual illustrated by Take
VOLTAGE Live! Blu-ray Special Edition package showing disc, memorial book, acrylic stands and postcards
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company / JVC Music

Price: ¥15,400 (¥14,000 excluding Japanese consumption tax). Release date: 26 August 2026.

How Singapore Fans Can Order the VOLTAGE Live! Blu-ray

There is no confirmed Singapore or Southeast Asia retail distribution for this release — it is a Japan market title published by JVC Music. The most straightforward import route is CDJapan, which ships internationally and currently lists pre-orders. At mid-August 2026 exchange rates ¥15,400 works out to roughly S$145–155 before shipping; EMS shipping to Singapore for a single Blu-ray package typically adds S$20–30 on top. CDJapan also notes a first-press bonus — a foil-stamped replica concert ticket — available on a first-come first-served basis while stocks last.

One point to flag: the main disc carries Japanese audio and Japanese lyric subtitles only, with no confirmed English subtitle track. For established PokéMiku fans that is unlikely to be a dealbreaker, but the 108-page MEMORIAL REPORT! book is also in Japanese, so the director commentary will require some translation effort for those who need it.

VOLTAGE Live! official concert announcement poster showing Hatsune Miku, Pikachu and Meloetta
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company / Crypton Future Media

Project VOLTAGE merchandise — including the 18-types Hatsune Miku prints and themed Pokémon goods — was sold at Pokémon Centers across Japan during the concert window, most of which has since sold out. The Blu-ray is the main remaining piece for collectors and concert fans who want to revisit the event, or experience it for the first time. Pre-orders through CDJapan remain open ahead of the 26 August release.

For more Japan music and pop-culture coverage relevant to Singapore fans, see our Manga & Anime archive.

Game News, Shop and Merchandise

Mega Man x Hololive Gamers: Capcom’s hoROCKMAN Collab Hits Japan on 22 August

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Capcom has officially revealed hoROCKMAN, a full merchandise collaboration between the classic Mega Man (Rockman) series and Hololive Gamers — the subunit featuring Shirakami Fubuki, Ookami Mio, Nekomata Okayu, and Inugami Korone. Announced on 17 August 2026 across Japanese gaming media including Famitsu (Japanese) and 4Gamer (Japanese), the collab drops in Japan on 22 August 2026 — and there is no English-language coverage yet.

What Is hoROCKMAN?

The collaboration draws on Mega Man’s iconic pixel-art DNA. Each of the four Hololive Gamers members has been illustrated in a newly drawn costume, then reimagined alongside a mascot character designed to represent both the VTuber and her fanbase — all rendered in Rockman-style dot art. It is a natural fit: Inugami Korone in particular is famously known in the VTuber community for her retro gaming streams, and Nekomata Okayu has tackled Mega Man X titles on stream before.

hoROCKMAN Capcom arcade crane game prize lineup featuring all four Hololive Gamers members
Image courtesy of Capcom

Prize Items at Capcom Arcades and caputore Online

Starting 22 August, the following items go live as crane game prizes at Capcom’s amusement facilities and Caputore (Capcom’s online crane game service, accessible from outside Japan):

  • Trading can badges — 4 types (approx. 56mm, random)
  • Acrylic stand keychains — 4 types (approx. 120mm)
  • Window flat pouches — 4 types (approx. 130×165mm)
  • Acrylic boards — 4 types (210×300mm)
  • Square cushions — 4 types (approx. 430mm)
  • T-shirts — 5 types (XL)
  • Mousepads — 4 types, Ikebukuro Capcom and Caputore only

SG fans with a Caputore account can try for prize items directly through the online service. Japan-based proxy services are another route for the physical arcade prizes.

hoROCKMAN retail merchandise including acrylic keychains, diorama stands, sticker sets and rubber trays
Image courtesy of Capcom

Retail Merch — Acrylic Stands, Keychains and More

Alongside the prize items, Capcom is releasing a retail range through Capcom Store (8 locations) and CharaCap shops (12 locations) in Japan, priced in yen:

  • 3-chain acrylic keychains — ¥1,430 (approx. S$13)
  • Diorama acrylic stands — ¥2,860 (approx. S$26)
  • Sticker sets — ¥1,650 (approx. S$15)
  • Rubber trays — ¥1,980 (approx. S$18)

These are also available via the Capcom Store PARCO online shop, which ships to international addresses. The collaboration goods are additionally confirmed to arrive at Capcom Store Taipei in late November — so regional fans should watch for that window too.

hoROCKMAN X follower campaign and store special events poster
Image courtesy of Capcom

Campaigns and Bonuses

Capcom is running several limited campaigns alongside the launch:

  • Arcade novelty gift: spend ¥500 at a participating Capcom amusement venue and receive a random original clear file while stocks last.
  • Retail postcard: spend ¥3,000 or more at a Capcom Store or CharaCap location to receive a random postcard while stocks last.
  • X (Twitter) follow & repost (21 August – 23 September): follow @Capcom_amuse and repost the campaign tweet for a chance to win one of 20 exclusive decorated collaboration posters.
  • Hashtag campaign (#ホロックマン): post a photo from a Capcom store visit using the hashtag to receive a limited shopping bag while stocks last.

Plaza Capcom Ikebukuro and Capcom Store Ikebukuro will be specially decorated for the campaign period from 22 August to 23 September.

SG Fans: Your Import Options

There is no Singapore retail availability announced. The goods are currently Japan-only, with Capcom Store Taipei scheduled to receive stock in late November. For SG fans who want the merchandise at launch, the main routes are:

  • Caputore — Capcom’s online crane game service operates internationally, giving direct access to the prize items without a Japan proxy.
  • Capcom Store PARCO online shop — international shipping on retail items.
  • Japan proxy/forwarding services — for physical arcade prizes you want to win in person or purchase from crane game resellers.

Singapore’s used-goods and doujin import community is active in sourcing Japan Capcom crane prizes, so keep an eye on our game news and local import groups closer to the 22 August launch date.

Manga Anime, Shop and Merchandise

Chainsaw Man x GARRACK: Japan-Made Mechanical Watches with Awa Washi Dials Out 21 August

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Japan-based watch brand GARRACK has announced four automatic mechanical watches inspired by Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, and they are a genuine step up from the smartwatch collaboration that came before. These are hand-crafted timepieces with dials made from traditional Japanese Awa washi paper — meaning no two watches will look exactly alike — going on sale 21 August 2026, with worldwide shipping available directly from the brand.

Four Characters, Four Watches

The collection covers four characters from the Reze Arc film, each as its own distinct automatic watch model with character-specific design details worked into the hands, indices, and dial motifs:

GARRACK Chainsaw Man automatic mechanical watch model
Image courtesy of GARRACK / Ueni Trading
  • Chainsaw Man model (SMS-CM-41-C, 41×41mm) — saw-blade inspired indices ring the open-heart dial, with a character-specific detail at the 12 o’clock position. The overall feel is all Denji: raw and kinetic.
  • Hayakawa Aki model (SMS-CM-41-A, 41×41mm) — tobacco and earring motifs are worked into the dial, capturing Aki’s understated but layered character in metal and washi.
GARRACK Hayakawa Aki automatic mechanical watch
Image courtesy of GARRACK / Ueni Trading
  • Bomb model (SMS-CM-40-B, 40×40mm) — explosive imagery runs through the dial design. At 40mm it sits slightly slimmer on the wrist than the Chainsaw Man and Aki models.
  • Makima model (SMS-CM-40-M, 40×40mm) — coffee cup and eye motifs reference Makima’s calm, controlled demeanour. Perhaps the most wearable of the four for everyday use.
GARRACK Bomb automatic mechanical watch
Image courtesy of GARRACK / Ueni Trading

The Awa Washi Dial — What Makes It Special

The standout feature of this collection is the dial material. GARRACK uses momizome-shi — a form of Awa washi paper made in Tokushima Prefecture — where artisans hand-crumple the sheet and steep it in two to three dye colours before finishing. The result is an irregular, layered texture that varies from piece to piece. As GARRACK explains on their special page, the irregular patterns inherent to crumpled dyed paper evoke the work’s intense, dynamic world.

Each dial is finished by hand, so colour intensity and texture will differ slightly between individual watches — which is the point. This is not mass-produced anime merch; it is genuinely bespoke craftsmanship tied to a cultural tradition. Backing the dial is a MIYOTA-manufactured automatic mechanical movement visible through the open-heart cutout. The case is stainless steel with mineral glass, rated 5 ATM water resistance.

GARRACK Makima automatic mechanical watch with Awa washi dial
Image courtesy of GARRACK / Ueni Trading

Watch the Film That Inspired the Collection

CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC – Official Trailer (HD) — via Sony Pictures Entertainment on YouTube

How to Order — Worldwide Shipping Available

All four models are priced at ¥39,600 each (tax included) and go on sale on 21 August 2026 via GARRACK’s official special page at world-wide-watch.jp. International orders and worldwide shipping are confirmed — so Singapore fans can order directly without a proxy service. No local retail distribution has been announced; for Singapore buyers this is a direct-from-Japan import purchase.

This is GARRACK’s second Chainsaw Man collab — the earlier series in late 2025 used smartwatch technology — but the mechanical format with Awa washi dials is an entirely different product tier, aimed at collectors and watch enthusiasts rather than fitness-tracker fans. Previous GARRACK collabs in this S-MEISTER mechanical line have covered Ghost in the Shell, Demon Slayer, and Evangelion, and have historically sold out quickly on the brand’s web store.

For more anime and manga news and merch picks, or browse our full merchandise coverage for Japan-import finds worth knowing about.

Game News, Shop and Merchandise

Dragon Quest Gets a Game of Life Collab — Out in Japan October 2026

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Takara Tomy’s legendary Jinsei Game — Japan’s equivalent of the Game of Life — is crossing over with Dragon Quest for the first time in its 85-edition history. Dragon Quest 人生ゲーム (Dragon Quest Jinsei Game) launches in Japan on 24 October 2026, celebrating the franchise’s 40th anniversary, and pre-orders opened today (17 August) at the Takara Tomy Mall and Amazon Japan. English-language media have not yet covered the announcement, which broke across Japanese gaming outlets including Famitsu (Japanese) and Game Watch Impress (Japanese) this morning.

Dragon Quest Game of Life — What It Is

Dragon Quest 人生ゲーム annotated game board showing key squares including Dharma Temple and final boss Zoma
Image courtesy of Square Enix / Takara Tomy

The game takes the classic Jinsei Game board-game format and wraps it entirely in the Dragon Quest universe. Players begin as an adventurer mounted in a horse-drawn carriage — the traditional car token replaced by a DQ-themed wagon — and travel a sprawling board filled with franchise landmarks: the Dharma Temple, Ruidia’s bar, and ultimately a final showdown against the Demon King Zoma. The player who reaches the goal with the most gold wins.

The game supports 2–6 players, is rated for ages 6 and up, and the board measures 520 × 420 mm — a footprint familiar to anyone who’s played Jinsei Game before. Seven companion-pin types represent Adventurer, Hero, Sage, Warrior, Priest, Mage, and Entertainer roles, each cast in a different colour.

How the Board Plays

Dragon Quest Game of Life event squares including Baby Satan encounter and treasure chest rewards
Image courtesy of Square Enix / Takara Tomy

Movement is driven by a spinner roulette, true to the classic Jinsei Game format. Board squares trigger Dragon Quest-style encounters: a Baby Satan might cast Ionazun and drain your Gold, or a treasure chest could hand you a coveted Small Medal. Companion-check squares add real strategic weight — land on one without a Mage or Sage in your party and you lose 12,000 Gold; have the right ally, and you walk away richer instead.

Small Medals — the collectible coins that DQ fans know from the mainline games — accumulate throughout the run and can be exchanged for powerful item cards, including a Metal King Shield valued at 100,000 Gold.

Game Pieces and Components

Dragon Quest Game of Life game pieces including carriage tokens and adventurer, hero, and companion pins in six colours
Image courtesy of Square Enix / Takara Tomy

Component highlights worth noting:

  • Carriage pieces: Six colours replace the classic car token — each a horse-drawn DQ wagon
  • Adventurer and Hero pins: White for your starting Adventurer; swap to gold when you meet the conditions to class up to Hero
  • Companion pins: Colour-coded peg pieces for Sage, Warrior, Monk, Mage, and Entertainer — load up your carriage or leave yourself exposed on enemy squares

Recruit Companions and Class-Change at Dharma Temple

Dragon Quest Game of Life companion cards for Warrior, Monk, Mage, Entertainer, and Sage professions with gold values
Image courtesy of Square Enix / Takara Tomy

Recruiting the right companions is where the strategy lives. Warrior, Monk, Mage, and Entertainer cards are each worth 20,000 Gold and protect you on specific board squares. Land on the Dharma Temple and meet the correct conditions and you can class-change to Sage — worth a premium 40,000 Gold and unlocking board advantages available only to the Sage class. Upgrading your Adventurer pin all the way to a Hero pin is a separate, harder-to-reach milestone.

The Zoma Finale and Item Cards

Dragon Quest Game of Life item cards including Shoes of Happiness and Orb of Light, with Demon King Zoma boss art
Image courtesy of Square Enix / Takara Tomy

Before crossing the finish line, every player must face Demon King Zoma in a roulette battle — there’s no skipping the final boss. Certain item cards tip the outcome in your favour: the Shoes of Happiness (70,000 Gold) and the Orb of Light (50,000 Gold) both carry special effects in the Zoma encounter, so hoarding them is a legitimate long-game strategy. Survive and you reach the goal as a Legendary Hero; lose enough Gold and the title slips away.

Release Date, Pricing, and Where to Import

Dragon Quest 人生ゲーム is a Japan-domestic release priced at ¥7,150 (tax included) — roughly S$62–65 at current exchange rates. Pre-orders are live from today at the Takara Tomy Mall and on Amazon Japan. Physical stock hits toy specialists, department stores, and mass retailers across Japan on 24 October 2026.

No Singapore or Southeast Asia retail release has been announced. For local fans, the most practical route is Amazon Japan via a freight-forwarding or proxy shopping service. The board and cards are in Japanese, so this is best suited for Dragon Quest fans comfortable with basic Japanese or those adding it to a DQ40 anniversary collection. For more on the broader celebrations, see our Dragon Quest XII: Beyond Dreams reveal and DQ40 anniversary roundup. More DQ40 merchandise and event news are also listed in our Game News section.

Manga Anime, Shop and Merchandise

Blue Archive × ZOZOTOWN: Black Collection Pre-Orders Open Now

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Blue Archive just kicked off pre-orders for its second ZOZOTOWN collaboration — and this time, Gehenna Academy’s Prefect Team is trading their school blazers for full black-military drip. The Blue Archive × ZOZOTOWN BLACK COLLECTION opened for orders today, 13 August 2026, at noon Japan time, with a pre-order window running all the way to 7 September.

Gehenna’s Black Military Collection

The collection centres on four Gehenna Academy students — Hina, Ako, Iori, and Chinatsu — reimagined in original outfit illustrations by artist Sola Nijihashi (Japanese). The theme is unmistakably military-chic: fitted black silhouettes, red accent stitching, and Gehenna Academy insignias worked into the garment designs. This is the second ZOZOTOWN drop for Blue Archive; the first featured the Arius Squad in streetwear.

What’s in the Black Collection

Blue Archive × ZOZOTOWN Black Collection hoodie — black with red stripe accents
Image courtesy of NEXON Games / Yostar / ZOZOTOWN

The full lineup runs to eight product types, mixing wearables with desk collectibles:

  • Graphic T-shirts (6 character variants) — ¥4,400
  • Open-collar long sleeve shirt — ¥9,350
  • Hoodie — ¥9,900
  • Long pants — ¥9,900
  • Long coach jacket — ¥39,600
  • Reversible MA-1 bomber jacket (black outside, Gehenna-red lining with embroidered insignias) — ¥36,300
  • Big acrylic stands (4 variants — one per character) — ¥2,200 each
  • Rubber play mat (all four characters across a full-width mat) — ¥3,850

The standout piece is the reversible MA-1 jacket: flip it inside out and the red lining reveals embroidered Gehenna faction symbols across the back — a detail fans of the game’s lore will appreciate immediately.

Blue Archive × ZOZOTOWN Black Collection reversible MA-1 bomber jacket showing black exterior and Gehenna-red lining with embroidered insignias
Image courtesy of NEXON Games / Yostar / ZOZOTOWN

Order Dates and What Singapore Players Should Know

Blue Archive × ZOZOTOWN Hina Big Acrylic Stand in black military outfit
Image courtesy of NEXON Games / Yostar / ZOZOTOWN

Pre-orders close 7 September 2026 at 11:59 PM Japan time, with items shipping in mid-December 2026. All items are exclusive to ZOZOTOWN — there is no retail or overseas retail channel.

ZOZOTOWN does not offer direct international shipping, so Singapore fans looking to pick up pieces from the Black Collection will need a Japan forwarding service. Services such as Tenso and Buyee support ZOZOTOWN orders and deliver to Singapore; expect Japanese domestic shipping (¥1,500–3,000 roughly) plus the forwarder’s fee on top of the item price, so factor that in before checkout.

Blue Archive × ZOZOTOWN Black Collection rubber play mat featuring Iori, Ako, Hina, and Chinatsu across a wide desk mat
Image courtesy of NEXON Games / Yostar / ZOZOTOWN

Blue Archive continues to be one of the most collab-active gacha titles for licensed fashion in Japan. If the Black Collection follows the first ZOZOTOWN drop, orders will close without a restock — Gehenna fans in Singapore who want a piece of the collection should plan their forwarding setup before 7 September. Check our anime and game coverage for more merchandise news.

News, Shop and Merchandise

Pokémon’s 30-Year Pokédex Is Out Now in Japan — All 1,025 Species, One Book

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Thirty years, nine console generations, and 1,025 Pokémon later, publisher Overlap has done what fans dreamed about since the days of Red and Green: put every single species in one official book. The Pokémon Official National Pokédex 1996-2026 (ポケモン公式ぜんこく図鑑 1996-2026) went on sale in Japan on 7 August 2026, and if you collect anything Pokémon-related, this one belongs on the shelf.

Pokémon 30th Anniversary Special Movie — via Pokémon Asia ENG on YouTube

What the Pokémon National Pokédex 1996-2026 Contains

This is not a strategy guide. Supervised by The Pokémon Company and produced in cooperation with Game Freak, the 448-page full-colour B5 volume covers all 1,025 species with data current as of March 2026 — meaning it includes the Pokémon introduced in LEGENDS: Z-A. Each entry lists type, classification, height, weight, abilities, hidden abilities, and Pokédex descriptions drawn from the latest games. Every species name appears in both English and Japanese, which makes the book genuinely usable even if you don’t read Japanese.

Evolution chains flow naturally across each spread, and explanatory columns walk readers through mechanics that can trip up casual players — Mega Evolution, Dynamax, Terastallization, and Regional Forms all get their own breakdowns. Navigation is handled by a National Pokédex number index and a 50-syllable (gojuon) alphabetical index. Price: ¥2,750 (tax included). Publisher: Overlap Inc.. ISBN: 978-4-8240-1717-8.

Sample spread showing Pichu, Pikachu and Raichu evolution chain including Alolan Raichu and Mega forms from the Pokémon Official National Pokédex 1996-2026
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company / Overlap

Three 30th Anniversary Art Books Land in December

Alongside the Pokédex, Overlap has announced three companion art books, all due 18 December 2026 at ¥5,500 each. They split 30 years of franchise history into three eras:

  • Volume 1: Red/Green through HeartGold/SoulSilver (Generations I–IV)
  • Volume 2: Black/White through Ultra Sun/Ultra Moon (Generations V–VII)
  • Volume 3: Let’s Go through LEGENDS: Z-A Mega Dimension (Generation VIII onwards)

Combined, the three volumes total 1,500 pages of sprites, 3D models, illustrations, and promotional artwork spanning the full run of the franchise. No international release has been announced for any of the four books — so Japan is currently the only source.

Index grid pages showing hundreds of Pokémon thumbnails from No. 739 to No. 954 in the Pokémon Official National Pokédex 1996-2026
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company / Overlap

How Singapore Fans Can Get a Copy

The Pokémon Official National Pokédex is available now at Pokémon Center Online Japan and major Japanese booksellers. Amazon Japan ships internationally, and specialist import retailers stock it as well — factor in shipping when comparing prices, since the base ¥2,750 (roughly S$26–28 at current rates) goes up once postage is added. No Singapore retail or local distributor has been confirmed, so import is the route for now.

The good news for non-Japanese readers: with English species names throughout, the Pokédex is a practical reference rather than just a display piece, even if you skip the Japanese descriptions. If you’ve ever wanted a single book that answers “which generation introduced that Pokémon?” or “what’s the English name for that form?”, this is it.

Sample spread featuring Kyogre and Groudon including their Primal Reversion forms from the Pokémon Official National Pokédex 1996-2026
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company / Overlap

The December art books are available for pre-order through importers. With the Pokédex and all three art volumes together, Singapore collectors would have a complete visual archive of 30 years of Pokémon — the kind of set that does not come around twice. Keep an eye on our merchandise coverage for updates if an English edition or regional distributor is ever announced.

Game News, Shop and Merchandise

Pokémon TCG First Partner Series 3 Out Now — All 27 Starters Finally Collected

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The wait is over — Pokémon TCG: First Partner Illustration Collection Series 3 is out today, 7 August 2026, and it brings the 30th Anniversary trilogy to a close. After Series 1 (Kanto, Sinnoh, Alola) in March and Series 2 (Johto, Unova, Galar) earlier this year, the final wave covers the three regions fans have been waiting for: Hoenn, Kalos and Paldea. All 27 starter Pokémon are now represented across the collection, each immortalised as an Illustration Rare promo card.

What Is the First Partner Illustration Collection?

All three regional boxes for Pokémon TCG First Partner Illustration Collection Series 3 — Hoenn, Kalos and Paldea
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company

Each box in the First Partner range focuses on one region’s trio of starter Pokémon. Inside every box you get:

  • 1 special promo booster pack containing 3 of 9 Illustration Rare promo cards (randomly drawn from that region’s three starter lines)
  • 2 regular Pokémon TCG booster packs
  • 1 sticker sheet featuring first-partner Pokémon

It’s a tidy package for both collectors and players — the promo cards are the star of the show, and the regular boosters add a little lottery excitement on top.

The Nine Starters of Series 3

Pokémon TCG First Partner Illustration Collection Series 3 banner featuring Hoenn, Kalos and Paldea starters
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company

Here’s the full lineup for Series 3, card numbers MEP 055–063:

  • Hoenn: Treecko (MEP 055), Torchic (MEP 056), Mudkip (MEP 057)
  • Kalos: Chespin (MEP 058), Fennekin (MEP 059), Froakie (MEP 060)
  • Paldea: Sprigatito (MEP 061), Fuecoco (MEP 062), Quaxly (MEP 063)

All nine cards are illustrated by Saboteri, the same artist behind the Series 1 and 2 promos. The standout feature: within each regional trio, the three cards slot together to form a connected panoramic scene. Collect all three Hoenn starters and they become a single wide illustration — it’s the kind of detail that makes the set genuinely worth chasing rather than just buying one box and calling it done.

What’s Inside Each Promo Pack

Pokémon TCG First Partner Series 3 illustration rare promo packs for all nine starters
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company

Because each promo pack gives you 3 of the 9 possible starters at random (sorted by region within the box you buy), completionists will likely want all three regional boxes to maximise their chances at the full panoramic sets. The total MSRP is USD $14.99 per collection box — note this is the US price, and Singapore retailers may price slightly higher. For context, Series 1 and 2 were similarly priced at the same USD MSRP and were readily available at local game and TCG shops across Singapore.

Where Singapore Trainers Can Pick It Up

First Partner Illustration Collection Series 3 sticker sheet featuring all the first partner Pokémon
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company

Series 3 is available globally from today at Pokémon Center and wherever Pokémon TCG products are sold. In Singapore, major game retailers and TCG specialty shops should be stocking this alongside the wave of 30th Anniversary releases — worth calling ahead or checking online listings before heading out, as the series has seen strong demand at launch in previous waves.

If you’ve been collecting the full set since Series 1 back in March, today is the day to complete it. And if you’re jumping in fresh, the good news is all three series are currently in print — you can grab the whole 30th Anniversary starter run together. The other Pokémon 30th Anniversary releases keep coming, with the 30th Celebration TCG expansion set for a simultaneous global drop on 16 September 2026 to look forward to next.

Game News, Shop and Merchandise

Pokémon x Baskin-Robbins Japan: 31 Poké Summer Campaign Is Live

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Pokémon’s 30th anniversary is still going strong, and Japan’s Baskin-Robbins just turned up the sweetness. The annual 31 Poké Summer Campaign (31ポケ夏！キャンペーン) is now live at Baskin-Robbins Japan — and this year’s lineup celebrates three decades since Pokémon Red and Green first launched in 1996. For Singapore fans making the Japan trip this August school holidays, this one is a worthy side-quest.

What Is the 31 Poké Summer Campaign?

Running throughout August 1–31, 2026 at B-R サーティワン locations nationwide in Japan, the 31 Poké Summer Campaign is an annual collaboration between Baskin-Robbins Japan and The Pokémon Company. Each year it draws long queues, and the 2026 edition makes it the biggest yet: the 30th anniversary of Pokémon Red and Green means Kanto’s original starter Pokémon — Bulbasaur, Charmander and Squirtle — take centre stage, joined by Pikachu, Eevee, Ditto, Slowpoke, and starter Pokémon from all nine main-series regions.

Check out more Pokémon news on GameTrader as we head into a packed August for the franchise.

The Signature New Flavour: Pikachu’s Volt Tackle

The star of the 2026 lineup is Pikachu’s Volt Tackle Pine Squash (ピカチュウのでんきショック！パインスカッシュ), priced at ¥420 per scoop. It’s a pineapple-and-cider sorbet laced with popping candy — 31% more than Baskin-Robbins Japan’s own popular Popping Shower flavour — so it fizzes and crackles on your tongue like a miniature Electric-type attack. It’s one of those flavours that sounds gimmicky on paper but reportedly delivers.

Joining it is the Ditto Crush Soda (メタモンクラッシュソーダ) at ¥760: grape and pineapple soda poured over crushed ice with a Ditto stirrer stick and grape gelatin. Mix the red and blue layers until they bleed into purple, and you’ve got a drink that transforms in real time — just like its namesake. A scoop of your choice flavour can be added on top.

Baskin-Robbins Japan Pokémon 2026 ice cream cone with Pikachu-themed decoration
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company and Baskin-Robbins Japan

Poké Ball Sundae, Double Cups, and All Nine Regions

The most coveted item this year is the Poké Ball Sundae (モンスターボールサンデー) at ¥820. It’s a scoop of any flavour topped with Pikachu-shaped chocolate whipped cream, sprinkles, and served inside a reusable Poké Ball container — the kind you’ll want to keep. The spoon is a random one of three Kanto starters (Bulbasaur, Charmander or Squirtle). Catch: it’s only available through 9 August and is limited to three cups per group, so plan ahead if you’re in Japan early this month.

The Pokémon Double Cup (ポケモンダブルカップ, from ¥510) lets you pick two scoops, and the cups are decorated with starter Pokémon from all nine main-series regions — Kanto to Paldea. For group orders, the Summer Special Set (from ¥3,520) packs nine scoops with stainless steel Pikachu and Eevee spoons; an upgraded version includes nine plastic starter spoons as well.

Pokémon Variety Box 6 Flavors at Baskin-Robbins Japan 2026 featuring Pikachu and Slowpoke
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company and Baskin-Robbins Japan

Pokémon Ice Cream Cakes for the 30th Anniversary

Returning for another summer are the Pokémon face-shaped ice cream cakes, available to pre-order. The Pikachu Ice Cream Cake (¥3,800) is a spot-on sculpted Pikachu head in yellow fondant and chocolate, filled with Popping Shower and strawberry ice cream. There’s also an Eevee Ice Cream Cake for fans of the Evolution Pokémon, filled with caramel ribbon and milk chocolate — arguably the more sophisticated option of the two.

Pikachu face-shaped ice cream cake at Baskin-Robbins Japan 31 Poké Summer 2026
Image courtesy of The Pokémon Company and Baskin-Robbins Japan

Singapore Fans: Plan That Japan Trip

The 31 Poké Summer Campaign is Japan-exclusive — B-R Japan is a separate franchise from Baskin-Robbins outlets here in Singapore, and none of these Pokémon products will appear at local stores. However, August is school-holiday season and one of the most popular months for Singapore families to visit Japan. Baskin-Robbins branches are everywhere in Japan’s major cities (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka), so picking up a Poké Ball Sundae or a Ditto Crush Soda is an easy Japan trip addition.

The Pokémon Variety Boxes — available in 4, 6, 8, and 12-scoop configurations in Pokémon-branded boxes — also make decent takeaway gifts if you’re heading back to Singapore after your trip, though ice cream logistics on a flight are naturally your own adventure.

The 31 Poké Summer Campaign runs August 1–31, 2026 at participating Baskin-Robbins Japan stores nationwide. Full product details and a store locator are available on the official site (Japanese). Via SoraNews24 and Game Watch (Japanese).