Twitch launches Pokémon Chat Badges collectible system

Twitch has partnered with The Pokémon Company International to launch Pokémon Chat Badges, a collectible digital reward system for viewers. The initiative allows users to earn badges by watching eligible content across various categories, including Pokémon, Just Chatting, DJs, Sports, Music, and Art.

Viewers can earn a Pichu badge for free by watching qualifying streams for 20 minutes per day over three days. To collect the Kanto starter Pokémon—Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle—users must subscribe to or gift subscriptions to eligible channels. Three subscriptions guarantee the collection of all three starters.

The system features a long-term progression mechanic where collected Pokémon will eventually evolve as viewers spend more time watching qualifying content. However, the badges are subject to scarcity; users must collect the initial Pokémon during the designated period to be eligible for their evolved forms later. A new Collections interface has been added to the platform to help users track their acquired badges and available Pokémon.