Disney Snags Pokémon Deal Amid Universal's Silent Expansion Plans
The Pokémon franchise is at the center of a significant development in the entertainment industry's largest rivalry between Disney and Universal. Until now, it seemed like a given that Universal would be expanding its partnership with Nintendo to create more immersive Pokémon experiences across its theme parks.
This expectation intensified when Universal Studios Japan announced plans for a new project involving Pokémon experiences in January 2026. However, seven months later, Universal has remained tight-lipped about the details of this project and where it will be located.
The silence from Universal has led to speculation that it may build a Pokémon land at Islands of Adventure in Orlando, but this remains unconfirmed. Meanwhile, Disney has quietly secured its own major agreement with The Pokémon Company International, announcing a global distribution deal for Pokémon content across Disney+ and Disney XD.