How to Play Pokémon MEZASTAR: Gameplay Basics, Modes and Tips

Ever dreamed of battling wild Pokémons, pulling off powerful attacks, and holding your breath as you try to catch them, all in one fast and exciting arcade game? Welcome to Pokémon MEZASTAR. This action packed Pokémon arcade game turns every play into a mini adventure that is easy to start and thrilling to master.
The best part is that it is easy to start. Place your Meza Tags, follow the on-screen prompts, and enjoy the big Catch Time moment at the end where you try to turn that Pokémon into a tag for your collection. After a couple of games, you will start spotting the little tricks that make a big difference, from choosing a balanced team to working together on side-by-side machines.
In this guide, we will show you what Pokémon MEZASTAR is, how the gameplay works, which mode to start with, how to play together, and quick tips to help first-time trainers feel confident from their very first battle.
Without further ado, let’s jump right in!

What is Pokémon MEZASTAR

Pokémon MEZASTAR is a Pokémon arcade game that lets kids and parents step into the role of a real Pokémon Trainer. Every game feels like a short Pokémon adventure where you battle a wild Pokémon, build up your power, and then try to catch it at the end.
Instead of using a controller, the game uses Meza Tags. These are special Pokémon tags that you place on the machine to bring your Pokémon into battle. Think of them as your Pokémon team coming to life right in front of you.
Meza Tags are not just for playing. They are also collectibles. When you successfully catch a Pokémon, you may receive that Pokémon as a Meza Tag to take home and use in future games. This makes every win extra exciting because you are growing your own collection as you play. Meza Tags come in different grades, including special shiny designs like ★5 Star and ★6 Superstar, which make every successful catch extra exciting for kids.

How the gameplay works

Pokémon MEZASTAR is designed to be easy to pick up, even for first time trainers. Each game follows a simple and exciting flow:
•    You form a small team
•    You battle a wild Pokémon on screen
•    You get a big, high energy Catch Time moment
The gameplay is designed for quick learning, with clear on-screen instructions that guide you through each step, making it easy for kids and parents to jump right in.

What you do during battle

When the battle begins, you place your Meza Tag or Tags on the lanes when prompted to get ready. Each tag represents one Pokémon on your team. To choose which Pokémon attacks, you slide the Meza Tag forward in its lane when it is your turn.
During the attack sequence, the game will prompt you to press the buttons quickly to power up your move. These timed moments add excitement and give both kids and parents a chance to work together to deal more damage.

What happens after the battle

Once the battle ends, the game moves into Catch Time. This is your chance to try and catch the wild Pokémon you just fought.
When prompted on screen, you will need to insert coin or credit to throw a Poké Ball. Timing matters here, so it is a good moment for kids to focus and parents to help guide if needed.
If you successfully catch the Pokémon, you may receive that Pokémon as a Meza Tag. This is one of the most exciting parts of Pokémon MEZASTAR, because you are not just playing a game, you are building and growing your own Pokémon collection with every visit.

Game modes explained

Pokémon MEZASTAR has a few different game modes, and each one offers a slightly different way to play. The good news is that first time players do not need to try everything at once. You can start simple, learn the basics, and explore more modes as confidence grows.
Here is a quick breakdown of each mode and which one works best for beginners.

•    Battle and Catch!

Battle and Catch! is the main mode and the best place to start for beginners. In this mode, you battle a wild Pokémon and then move into Catch Time at the end of the round. 
It introduces the full gameplay loop in one session, from choosing your attacks to trying to catch the Pokémon, making it ideal for first-time trainers who want the complete experience.

•    Catch now!

Catch now! is a faster and simpler option that focuses on catching Pokémon without going through a full battle. This mode is great for younger kids who enjoy the surprise of discovering new Pokémon and want a shorter, more relaxed game.

•    Special Mode

Special Mode unlocks additional challenges, including special battles that feel more like trainer fights. This mode is best saved for repeat visits, once kids are comfortable with the basic battle and catch flow and are ready for something a little more challenging.

How to play Pokémon MEZASTAR together

Playing together is a fun way for parents and kids, or siblings, to share the excitement of Pokémon MEZASTAR. You can enjoy big battle moments, work together during Catch Time, and still use your own Meza Tags on each machine. 
There are two ways to play together: Special Tag Battle and Event Tag Battle:

Special Tag Battle

Special Tag Battle is a surprise co-op battle that can happen when two neighbouring machines are being used. 
When it appears, both screens can combine into one big screen, creating a special team-up battle that feels more exciting than a normal round.
To try this mode, simply play on two machines next to each other and keep an eye out for the Special Tag Battle prompt during gameplay. When it appears, follow the on-screen instructions to join the battle together.

Event Tag Battle

Event Tag Battle is a planned play-together mode that you can enter through Special Mode when it is available. In this mode, two players team up to battle against a pair of Trainers.
Each player brings up to three Meza Tags, so you fight as one combined team. This mode works well for families who already know the basic controls and want a cooperative challenge that encourages communication and teamwork.

Where to play Pokémon MEZASTAR in Singapore

Pokémon MEZASTAR is available at all Timezone Singapore venues, following its launch from 1 April 2025. With 15 Timezone outlets across Singapore, most families can easily find a location that fits into a day out or weekend plan.
If you are heading out specifically to play Pokémon MEZASTAR, you can also cross-check the official MEZASTAR Singapore shop list, which includes Timezone outlets such as Plaza Singapura, Marina Square, and Northpoint City. This helps you confirm availability before your visit.
For families with younger kids, it is best to choose a venue that is easiest for you to reach. Plan for a few rounds of gameplay so your child has time to learn the on-screen prompts, then enjoy seeing them feel more confident and improve in the next game.

MEZASTAR-Credits pricing at Timezone Singapore

To play Pokémon MEZASTAR, you will need MEZASTAR Credits (previously known as Poké-Credits). These are special credits used only for this game.
•    Minimum reload is S$10
•    S$10 gives you 5 MEZASTAR Credits
•    1 MEZASTAR Credit = 1 game of Pokémon MEZASTAR
•    No e tickets are issued for MEZASTAR Credit purchases

Meza Tags (optional for first-timers)

If you do not have any Meza Tags yet, you can still start playing using rental Pokémon, making it easy for first-time players to jump right in. As you continue playing, you can begin collecting your own Meza Tags by catching Pokémon during the game.

Extra credit for catching

When Catch Chance starts, you may need to insert an additional credit to throw a Poké Ball and try to catch the Pokémon as a Meza Tag. This is part of the excitement of turning a battle win into a collectible reward.

Trainer ID (recommended, but not required)

A Trainer ID adds an extra layer of fun and progression for kids. Players can create their own Trainer avatar, which helps personalise the experience. 
It also provides a small advantage during catching by giving one more Master Ball in the Ball Roulette, and encourages repeat visits through Battle Score rankings and rewards.

Quick Tips for First-Time Trainers

Starting Pokémon MEZASTAR is exciting, and a few simple tips can make the first experience smoother, more confident, and even more fun. These tips are easy for kids to follow and helpful for parents guiding from the side.

1. Start Simple

Begin with Battle and Catch! mode. It shows the full flow of the game in one go, battle first, then Catch Time at the end.
For a first visit, aim for 2 to 3 games. The first round is for learning, and the next rounds are where kids start reacting faster and feeling more confident.

2. During Battle

Try placing up to three Meza Tags so there are more Pokémon to choose from during battle.
When it is time to attack, slide the Meza Tag forward to choose which Pokémon attacks next. This helps kids understand turn order without reading stats.
When the screen prompts you, press the buttons quickly to power up your move. These moments are high energy and fun, especially when everyone cheers together.
Quick Tip: Slide a Meza Tag forward slightly to preview the battle order and help kids see which Pokémon will attack next.

3. During Catch Time

Strong battles help with catching. The more damage you deal, the more the Catch Gauge fills, increasing your chance to catch the Pokémon.
Tell kids to focus during Catch Time. This is the moment that can turn the Pokémon on screen into a real Meza Tag they can take home.
When the machine prompts you, insert the credit to throw a Poké Ball and watch closely for the result.

4. Play Together as a Team

If you want to play together, choose two machines next to each other and watch for the Special Tag Battle prompt.
For Event Tag Battle, enter Special Mode by pressing the left and right buttons together, then select Event Tag Battle when it appears.
Talking through the game out loud helps kids learn teamwork and timing instead of just pressing buttons fast.

5. Easy “Family” Tip

Let your child choose one favourite Pokémon first. Then add one Pokémon of a different type and one stronger tag if available.
This keeps the team balanced and avoids getting stuck when a boss Pokémon resists one type.

Ready to start your Pokémon MEZASTAR adventure?

Pokémon MEZASTAR is easy to learn, exciting to play, and perfect for kids and families looking for a fun arcade experience together. With simple on screen prompts, fast paced battles, and the thrill of Catch Time, every game feels like a mini Pokémon journey from start to finish.
The best way to enjoy your first session is to start simple. Choose Battle and Catch!, follow the prompts, and enjoy the excitement as you build your team and try to catch your first Pokémon. Playing a few rounds helps kids gain confidence and makes each game even more fun than the last.
If you are playing with siblings or a parent, try using neighbouring machines to experience play together modes and share the big moments.
When you are ready, head to Timezone Singapore, top up your MEZASTAR Credits, and jump into your first Pokémon MEZASTAR battle. 
Your trainer journey starts now!