The Pokemon Center is returning to London. From August 17 to 21, trainers will be able to purchase exclusive merch, explore Pokemon-themed areas, and take adorable photos with your favorite Pokemon at ExCeL London during the Pokemon World Championships.While the Pokemon World Championships is a competitive esports event with tournaments for Pokemon Go, Pokken Tournament DX, Pokemon Unite, the Pokemon TCG, and Pokemon Sword and Shield, you don’t have to be a competitor to visit the pop-up Pokemon Center. And unlike last year, you won’t have to wait in line for most of a day.When the Pokemon Center was last in London back in 2019, wait times reportedly exceeded six hours thanks to “unprecedented demand.” The Center, which was hosted at Westfield Shepherd's Bush, had to reduce operating hours as it ran out of stock. It also sold out of the exclusive Bowler Hat Pikachu plush before the November 15 closure date.
No word on whether the Bowler Hat Pikachu will return for the Pokemon World Championships, but we at least know that the Pokemon Center will be better prepared this time. Its offering advance time slot reservations as well as a virtual queuing system for walk-ups so you won’t have to wait for hours just to buy some of the Center’s exclusive merch.
Heading to the Pokemon World Championships in August might be the perfect opportunity to take advantage of Pokemon Go's new Daily Adventure Incense. For 15 minutes every day, players can enjoy increased encounters with rare Pokemon that wouldn't normally spawn in that player's area. Niantic will even gift players that have run out of balls with 30 free Poke Balls so they can take advantage of their daily walk.