The underwater expansion for Pokemon Pokopia, Bubbly Basin, is now available. This update allows players to learn the dive mechanic, which is a free add-on for all players. However, accessing the new underwater town and befriending its new Pokémon requires the paid DLC pass.
To access Bubbly Basin, players must purchase the content from the Nintendo eShop and ensure their game is updated to version 2.0. Progressing through the game's main storyline is also necessary, specifically completing the Withering Wasteland starting area and unlocking the Bleak Beach main quest. Players who have already completed Bleak Beach can proceed directly to learning the dive ability. For new players, the Bleak Beach questline involves learning mechanics such as swimming from Piplup and surfing from Lapras. Piplup is encountered early by following story prompts, while Lapras appears after building the Tropical Seaside habitat, which requires one large palm tree, four hedges, and ocean tiles.
To begin the quest for the dive ability, players should head to Bleak Beach and speak with Professor Tangrowth, who will be located in front of the Pokémon Center with a dialogue bubble asking "What could it be?". The Professor will then direct players to a newly appeared small island nearby, prompting them to investigate using their surf ability. On this island, players will encounter Manaphy. To fulfill Manaphy's request, players need to bring it five seaweeds, which are readily available on the island. Completing this task will enable Manaphy to teach the dive mechanic.
After learning to dive and testing the ability at Manaphy's request, players must return to the Pokémon Center to encounter Popplio. Speaking with Popplio initiates the quest to reach Bubbly Basin. Popplio will guide players to the underwater town, starting from the ocean area directly behind the Bleak Beach Pokémon Center. A shallow area with a rock, located a short distance from shore, marks the entrance to Bubbly Basin. Players can then dive down and interact with the gate to enter the new town, which, like other areas in Pokopia, requires building and development.