Play! Pokémon recently shocked fans by canceling the huge Yokohama Open, a side tournament at the 2023 Pokémon World Championships in Japan. They shared this disappointing news on July 20, with no reasons given yet.
Big Hopes Dashed
The Yokohama Open was more than just a side event. For players of Scarlet and Violet VGC and TCG, it was a major chance. It offered a way to earn Championship Points early for the 2024 season or to keep competing after leaving the main Worlds event. It was as big as the largest Pokémon tournaments ever.
Sadly, the organizers decided to cancel the Yokohama Open. They tweeted, urging fans to look forward to other side events over the Worlds weekend.
Fans Are Upset
Players voiced their anger and disappointment loudly. Many had already set their travel plans to Japan, spending a lot on flights and hotels. One upset player highlighted how late this cancellation was announced, calling it ridiculous.
With the Yokohama Open gone, some feel Worlds is partly ruined. This event’s cancellation adds to issues like withdrawn invitations and bans for top Korean players. Another tweet said this might be the worst World Championship hosted in Japan.
Players had hoped to talk to The Pokémon Company at Worlds about the unfair competitive structure in Asia. This cancellation just raises tensions more.
Waiting for Answers
There might be a valid reason for this sudden change. Yet, until we know more, fans have every right to feel upset. ESN.GG reached out for more details, but there’s no response yet.