Pokemon Leak May Reveal Surprising Plan for Generation 10 Games

Summary

• Leaks suggest Generation 10 Pokémon games may launch on both the original Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2.
• Switch 2's backward compatibility ensures playability of existing Switch Pokémon titles regardless.
• Further details on future 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 Generation 10 remains unannounced, speculation previously favored a Switch 2 exclusive release. This assumption stemmed from the performance criticisms leveled at Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, whose open world struggled on the original Switch hardware. Many believed Game Freak would prioritize the Switch 2 for the next generation. However, new leaked information suggests otherwise.

According to information from a Game Freak hacker, shared by Centro Leaks, Generation 10, codenamed "Gaia," is primarily under development for the original Switch. However, a "Super Gaia" version, seemingly intended for the Switch 2, has also been discovered. Further evidence suggests Pokémon Legends: Z-A might also receive a native Switch 2 release.

Generation 10 Pokémon Games: A Potential Original Switch Launch?

While specifics on the Switch 2 remain limited, its backward compatibility with the original Switch is confirmed. This means Switch 2 owners will play Generation 10 and Pokémon Legends: Z-A, regardless of native releases. While the Switch 2 might offer enhanced performance for these titles, similar to improvements seen on newer Xbox and PlayStation consoles, this remains unconfirmed. How Nintendo might incentivize Switch 2 ports remains unclear, given backward compatibility.

Currently, no official announcements regarding Generation 10 have been made. Fans should approach this information cautiously. The anticipated Pokémon Presents event on February 27th might offer further clarification. However, rumors suggest this event will focus on games for the original Switch, not the Switch 2. If Generation 10 targets the original Switch, a dedicated Switch 2 main series Pokémon game might be years away.