The Complete Pokémon Frenda Guide: How to Play, Review, and Best Uses Explained!

Seen a Pokémon Frenda machine at your local arcade and wondered, "How on earth do you play it?" Don't worry. Today, this Pokémon obsessive (aka me) who's at the arcade every weekend will walk you through everything: from how to play Pokémon Frenda to a full review, plus a few clever tricks to get the most out of it.

What exactly is Pokémon Frenda?

Put simply, Pokémon Frenda is the latest arcade game in the Pokémon series, launched in summer 2024. Unlike previous titles like Ga-Olé or Mezasta, this one uses round 'Frenda Discs'. You scan the disc to become 'friends' with the Pokémon on screen... that's the basic gist. The focus is on 'bonding' rather than 'battling', which is a fresh twist that appeals to everyone from young kids to adult collectors.

Pokémon Frenda review: 3 things I learned after 50 plays (and why they're brilliant)

First, my honest thoughts. Having played nearly 100 times, here are the standout features:

• The 'Friendship System' is incredibly cute: Instead of battling and defeating, you feed and pet Pokémon to become friends. When Pikachu looks at you and gives a little 'Pika!' smile, even a grown adult like me feels a tug at the heartstrings.
• The Frenda Discs feel fantastic: They're coin-sized plastic discs, but the edges have a lovely gloss – just lining them up is satisfying. It's a different kind of ownership feeling from gacha capsules.
• The replay value is off the charts: It cleverly sparks the urge to "become friends with that Pokémon next time" or "raise my friendship level even higher". Before you know it, your spare change has vanished... we've all been there.

On the flip side, if you're expecting a 'beat 'em up' style arcade game, you might be disappointed. It's perfect for those who prefer raising and collecting over competing.

Pokémon Frenda guide: How to play for the first time (3 steps)

Now for the hands-on part. Even if you've never played before, don't worry. Read this as if I'm right there next to you, guiding you through.

Step 1: Get 100 yen ready and take a seat at the machine
First, sit down at the dedicated Pokémon Frenda cabinet in the arcade. One play costs 100 yen (some venues may charge 200 yen). The machine will dispense one Frenda Disc – make sure to pick it up.

Step 2: Scan the disc to call out a Pokémon
Place the dispensed disc on the circular panel in the centre of the machine and scan it. A Pokémon will appear on screen. At first, you'll likely get beginner-friendly Pokémon like Eevee or Pawmi.

Step 3: Enjoy the friendship actions
Follow the on-screen instructions – use the touch panel to feed the Pokémon, tap buttons in rhythm, etc. Watch the Pokémon's reactions and fill up the 'Friendship Gauge' to max. Once you do, you'll officially become 'Friends' with that Pokémon. You'll also get a new disc, so your collection will grow quickly.

Getting more from your Pokémon Frenda: Handy tips and tricks

This section is for intermediate players. Don't just play – make the most of it! Here are some sneaky tips to enjoy Pokémon Frenda to the fullest.

・Use 'Outing Mode'
Link the game with the official smartphone app (Pokémon Frenda app) at home, and you can take your discs on a virtual stroll. There are also mini-games within the app, so you can stay with your Pokémon until your next arcade visit – it's surprisingly lovely.

・Swap discs with friends
Because these are physical discs, you can trade or lend them to friends. I often hold trading meets with local Trainers when hunting for a 'Shiny Magikarp'. The offline social aspect is one of the game's great strengths.

・Check weekly events
The official website and in-store posters announce the 'Pokémon of the Week'. There are periods when specific Pokémon are easier to encounter, so if you're after a particular one, don't miss that window.

Conclusion: Pokémon Frenda is a gateway to making new friends

I've gone on a bit, but at its heart, Pokémon Frenda is a game about connections rather than winning or losing. Connections with Pokémon, and with the players around you. If you haven't tried it yet, do give it a go at your local arcade. You'll find yourself grinning, thinking, 'Well, this is unexpectedly brilliant.' See you at a Frenda cabinet somewhere!