To start competitive Pokémon battles, all you need is your phone. But to become a champion, you’re still stuck with a Switch. This discrepancy is puzzling, especially given the sharp graphics on mobile devices.

Champions, originally launched on the Switch, now has a mobile version. However, high-level tournaments still require a Switch, a decision that might be influenced by the complexity of cross-platform play and the desire to present the best visual experience.

The recent World Championships rules update allows mobile for some local tournaments, but the official VGC rules handbook hints at a workaround for streamed matches. This suggests that while visual fidelity is a concern, it’s not a technical issue preventing mobile access.

Despite the argument that mobile devices are just as capable, the official stance remains firm. One theory is that the Switch offers a more polished experience, but with 25 million downloads, the mobile version has a significant user base. Perhaps financial constraints are a factor, as the Switch price hike might deter some potential competitors.

Building a team in Champions is similar whether you’re playing on Switch or your phone, with the exception of certain Pokémon only available in other games. The mobile version’s accessibility might mean a more level playing field, but the Switch remains the gold standard for tournaments.