How to download the free Pokkén Tournament DX trial on Nintendo Switch

Pokken Tournament Dx Switch Charizard
Pokken Tournament Dx Switch Charizard (Image credit: Nintendo)

You read the title correctly, right now anyone with an Nintendo Switch Online subscription can play Pokkén Tournament DX for "free" from July 29 at 10 a.m. PDT through August 4 at 11:59 pm PDT. Whether you're a Pokémon fanatic, love fighting games, or simply love free stuff, you should definitely check out this game trial. Here's how to download the free game.

Products needed for this guide

The Nintendo Switch Online Membership

Yes, to be able to play the game for "free," you'll need a Nintendo Switch Online membership. If you'd like step by step instructions, we can show you how to sign up for Nintendo Switch Online.

How to play the free Pokkén Tournament DX trial

  1. Select the Nintendo eShop icon from the main Switch menu.
  2. Scroll up to Search/Browse.Source: iMore

How To Download Pokken Tournament Dx Trial Eshop (Image credit: iMore)

How To Download Pokken Tournament Dx Trial Eshop Search (Image credit: iMore)
  1. Enter Pokken into the search bar.
  2. Select Pokkén Tournament DX from the menu.Source: iMore

How To Download Pokken Tournament Dx Trial Enter Keyword (Image credit: iMore)

How To Download Pokken Tournament Dx Trial Select Game (Image credit: iMore)
  1. There's a Game Trial box at the top of the screen. Select Download from within that box.
  2. It will take you to this screen. Select Download again.Source: iMore

How To Download Pokken Tournament Dx Trial Download (Image credit: iMore)

How To Download Pokken Tournament Dx Trial Download Again (Image credit: iMore)
  1. The eShop will thank you for downloading the trial. Select Close or Continue Shopping to leave this screen.
  2. Now just wait for the game to download. You can check the game's progress from the main Switch menu. Once the game has finished downloading, you can select it and start playing.Source: iMore

How To Download Pokken Tournament Dx Trial Continue Shopping (Image credit: iMore)

How To Download Pokken Tournament Dx Trial Wait For Download (Image credit: iMore)

Once the game finishes downloading, you'll be able to battle several different Pokémon in the arena. To be more precise, there are 21 different Pokémon fighters to choose from. Make sure to download the trial as soon as possible so you can get the most time out of it.

Ways to enhance you Nintendo Switch experience

Having the right accessories makes all of the difference when you're playing a game. Here are a few that we personally love using with the Nintendo Switch.

Pro Controller ($62 at Amazon)

In addition to having a battery that lasts up to 40 hours, it features motion controls, HD rumble, and built-in amiibo functionality. Should the battery get low, you can plug in a USB cable and keep playing.

Hori Case

HORI Official Game Card Case ($10 at Amazon)

This compact plastic storage case allows you to carry up to 24 Nintendo Switch games at once. It also includes a memory card holder so you can have as much memory on you as you need.

PowerA Everywhere Messenger Bag ($37 at Amazon)

Safely store your entire Switch system, including Pro Controllers and the Dock for easy transport. It features both a handle and a detachable shoulder strap to make travelling easier. There are three designs to choose from.

Rebecca Spear
Gaming Editor

Gaming aficionado Rebecca Spear is iMore's dedicated gaming editor with a focus on Nintendo Switch and iOS gaming. You’ll never catch her without her Switch or her iPad Air handy. If you’ve got a question about Pokémon, The Legend of Zelda, or just about any other Nintendo series check out her guides to help you out. Rebecca has written thousands of articles in the last six years including hundreds of extensive gaming guides, previews, and reviews for both Switch and Apple Arcade. She also loves checking out new gaming accessories like iPhone controllers and has her ear to the ground when it comes to covering the next big trend. 

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