A fresh collection of primary series Pokémon titles is slated for release on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027, signifying the 10th entry in the franchise.
During a livestream commemorating the launch of the initial Pokémon games precisely 30 years ago, the company revealed Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves, expansive open-world adventures set across a sprawling ocean dotted with islands.
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The trio of new starter Pokémon were also introduced: Browt, a Grass type “bean chick” reminiscent of an Angry Bird; Pombon, a Fire type inspired by Pomeranians who better not transform into a humanoid creature; and Gecqua, a Water type gecko featuring large pink eyes.
Insiders speculate that the upcoming titles take place in a region inspired by Indonesia and Southeast Asia — while the trailer does not verify this definitively, it strongly suggests such possibilities, displaying lush rainforests, coastal mountains, tropical villages, and even coral reefs. Enthusiasts have also focused on a peculiar cloud in the trailer that resembles a Gyarados or Lapras soaring above — could this hint at a new legendary Pokémon?
The Pokémon franchise previously ventured into a tropical island theme with the Hawaii-influenced “Sun and Moon” titles, released nearly a decade ago, yet there remains a wealth of opportunities to discover in that environment, particularly now that the series is embracing open-world gameplay. Not every tropical archipelago is identical!
Typically, main series Pokémon games launch in November, suggesting we have nearly two years until we can delve into this new region … but perhaps we’ll be pleasantly surprised. It feels like ages since Pokémon Scarlet and Violet were released in 2022. However, when that title debuted, players criticized its rushed feel and various glitches. If a postponed release means an outstanding final product, I am more than willing to wait.
Meanwhile, Pokémon aficionados can purchase updated versions of the Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen games now for the Switch … although they come with a $20 price tag. It’s unfortunate that there isn’t a super simple and legally questionable method to obtain those games on your mobile device for free.