Pokémon Goita

Pokémon Goita is a Pokémon-themed board game released in Japan on December 18, 2025 by The Pokémon Company. The game adapts Goita, a traditional Japanese strategy game that originated in Noto, Ishikawa Prefecture. This version combines the classic mechanics of the historical game with Pokémon characters, creating a collectible and family-friendly tabletop experience.

The set includes a playmat, a rulebook, and 34 playing pieces inspired by Pokémon. These pieces represent ranks similar to those used in shogi, the traditional Japanese chess game. Each piece displays a Pokémon that corresponds to a specific rank and point value.

Pokémon Pieces and Ranks

The game replaces traditional pieces with well-known Pokémon characters. For example, Mewtwo and Mew represent the King pieces, which have the highest value. Other pieces include Charizard as the rook, Dragonite as the bishop, Raichu as the gold general, and Pikachu as the silver general. Lower-rank pieces include Ponyta, Rattata, and Pidgey, which function similarly to knights, lances, and pawns.

Each piece also displays its rank symbol, point value, and quantity, which helps players understand its role during the match.

Gameplay and Team Strategy

Pokémon Goita is designed for four players divided into two teams. Teammates sit opposite each other and work together to win rounds. At the start of each round, the pieces are shuffled and distributed equally among the players. Players keep their pieces hidden from opponents.

During the game, players alternate between defending and attacking. A defending piece must match the rank of the previously played attacking piece. If a player successfully defends, they must immediately play another piece to attack the next player. However, if no player can defend against an attack, the attacking player begins a new sequence.

The round ends when a player places all their pieces. Their team then receives points based on the final piece played. Teams continue playing rounds until one side reaches 150 points, which wins the game.

A Collectible Pokémon Board Game

Pokémon Goita celebrates the connection between Pokémon culture and traditional Japanese games. Because it mixes nostalgic gameplay with popular Pokémon characters, it appeals to collectors, Pokémon fans, and board game enthusiasts. The Japanese release also included promotional bonuses such as a special drawstring bag for storing the pieces while supplies lasted.