Pokémon Gen 10: Surprise Leak Reveals New Plans

Summary

• Leaks suggest Generation 10 Pokémon games may launch on both the original Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2.
• Backward compatibility ensures Switch 2 owners can play existing Switch Pokémon titles.
• Further details on upcoming Pokémon games are anticipated during the Pokémon Presents event on February 27th.

Recent leaks within the Pokémon franchise hint at Generation 10 games potentially releasing natively on both the original Nintendo Switch and the forthcoming Switch 2. While unannounced, speculation previously centered on a Switch 2 exclusive release, particularly given the performance criticisms leveled at Pokémon Scarlet and Violet on the original Switch hardware. The open-world design of Scarlet and Violet notably struggled on the original Switch, leading many to believe Game Freak would prioritize the Switch 2 for the next generation. However, new leaks contradict this.

According to information from a Game Freak hacker, as relayed by Centro Leaks, Generation 10, codenamed "Gaia," is primarily being developed for the original Switch. However, a related project, "Super Gaia," appears to be a Switch 2 version. Additionally, there's speculation of a native Switch 2 release for Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

Generation 10 Pokémon Games: A Potential Original Switch Release?

While details on the Switch 2 remain scarce, its confirmed backward compatibility is significant. This means Switch 2 owners will be able to play Generation 10 and Pokémon Legends: Z-A, regardless of native releases. Improved performance on the Switch 2, mirroring enhancements seen on newer Xbox and PlayStation consoles with older games, is possible but unconfirmed. How Nintendo might incentivize Switch 2 ports remains unclear, given the backward compatibility.

Currently, no official announcements regarding Generation 10 have been made. Therefore, treat this information with caution. The anticipated Pokémon Presents event on February 27th might offer further clarification. However, reports suggest the event will focus on games for the original Switch, potentially delaying a dedicated Switch 2 Pokémon title for years.