Pokémon fans in South Korea have something completely new to look forward to. Bandai Namco Korea has officially announced the launch of Plakoro, an all-new Pokémon hobby that combines snap-fit plastic model kits with a tabletop battle game. Launching on July 31, 2026, Plakoro is unlike anything Bandai has released before, bringing together model building, strategy, collecting, and even organised competitive play.
If you've ever wished your Pokémon model kits could do more than sit on a shelf, Plakoro might be exactly what you've been waiting for.
What is Plakoro?
Plakoro (プラコロ) is Bandai Spirits' newest Pokémon hobby line. The name combines "Pura" (Plastic Model) with "Koro", referencing the small collectible game pieces used throughout the series.
Unlike Bandai's existing Pokémon Model Kit Quick!! series, Plakoro isn't just about building display models. Every completed Pokémon becomes a playable character in a tabletop battle game where players use dice, move cards, and strategy to defeat their opponents.
Think of it as a combination of:
- Pokémon battles
- Gunpla-style snap-fit model kits
- Dice-based tabletop games
- Blind-box collecting
Bandai has even announced organised tournaments and official events in Japan, showing that Plakoro is intended to become a long-term hobby rather than a one-time product line.
How Does the Game Work?
Each player builds their own Pokémon model, known as a Charakoro. Every Pokémon has its own unique set of Technique Cards (moves), abilities and statistics.
A typical turn works like this:
- Choose one of your Pokémon's available Technique Cards.
- Roll your Energy Dice.
- Check whether the required symbols appear.
- If successful, your Pokémon performs the attack and deals damage or activates special effects.
One clever mechanic is that you can't simply spam your strongest attack every turn. Players are required to rotate between different moves, forcing them to think ahead and adapt to the flow of battle.
Some Pokémon specialise in powerful attacks, while others focus on healing, defensive abilities, counterattacks, or consistent damage output. Although luck plays a role through the dice, strategy is an important part of winning.
Starter Sets
The Korean launch includes six Starter Sets featuring some of Pokémon's most recognisable characters.
- Bulbasaur
- Charmander
- Squirtle
- Pikachu
- Eevee
- Mew
Each Starter Set contains everything needed for one player to begin battling, including:
- One buildable Pokémon model
- Energy Dice
- Technique Cards
- Character Card
- Life Counter
- Custom Chips
- Rule Sheet
Bandai Namco Korea is also releasing First Limited Edition Starter Sets. These contain exactly the same contents as the regular editions, but are being offered at a special promotional launch price.
Adventure Box 01
Alongside the Starter Sets, Bandai is introducing the Adventure Box 01, a blind-box product aimed at collectors.
Each Adventure Box contains one random Pokémon from a collection of 36 different Pokémon.
Inside each box you'll find:
- One random Pokémon model kit
- Character Card
- Technique Cards
- Custom Chips
Adventure Boxes are designed as expansions for the game. Because they don't include the Energy Dice or Life Counter found in the Starter Sets, you'll need at least one Starter Set before you can start playing.
How Much Does It Cost?
In Japan, the regular Starter Sets retail for approximately ¥990, while the promotional First Limited Editions launched at just ¥500. Adventure Boxes retail for around ¥385 each.
Bandai Namco Korea has announced the products for the July 31 launch, although local pricing may vary depending on the retailer.
Why Plakoro Could Be Bandai's Next Big Pokémon Hobby
For years, Pokémon fans have had model kits, trading cards, and video games, but very few products have combined multiple hobbies into one experience. Plakoro changes that by bringing together:
- Quick and easy model building
- Collectible blind boxes
- Strategic tabletop battles
- Official tournaments
- Future expansions and new Pokémon releases
Bandai has already revealed that additional Pokémon, Evolution Sets, accessories, and expansion products are planned beyond the initial launch, suggesting this is only the beginning of the Plakoro ecosystem.
Should You Buy It?
If you're already collecting Pokémon merchandise, Gunpla, or Bandai model kits, Plakoro looks like a fantastic entry point into a new hobby. The snap-fit builds are quick and beginner-friendly, while the battle system appears deep enough to reward repeated play.
Collectors may enjoy hunting down all 36 Pokémon from Adventure Box 01, while competitive players can experiment with different Pokémon, move combinations, and custom chip setups as the game grows.
Most importantly, Plakoro feels accessible. It offers an affordable way to build, collect, and play, making it an excellent option for families, younger fans, or anyone looking for a hobby that goes beyond simply displaying models.
Release Information
- Release Date: July 31, 2026
- Retailer: Bandai Namco Korea Mall
- Launch Products:
- Bulbasaur Starter Set
- Charmander Starter Set
- Squirtle Starter Set
- Pikachu Starter Set
- Eevee Starter Set
- Mew Starter Set
- Adventure Box 01
Plakoro is one of the most exciting new Pokémon hobbies we've seen in years. By blending model building with tabletop gameplay, Bandai has created something that feels fresh while remaining approachable for both collectors and newcomers. We'll be keeping a close eye on future releases, tournament support, and upcoming expansion sets as the Plakoro lineup continues to grow.
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