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.
• 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 Generation 10 remains unannounced, speculation previously centered on a Switch 2 exclusive release. This assumption stemmed from the performance issues plaguing Pokémon Scarlet and Violet on the original Switch hardware; their open world proved demanding. Many believed 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. A parallel project, "Super Gaia," appears to be a Switch 2 version. Furthermore, evidence suggests Pokémon Legends: Z-A might also receive a native Switch 2 release.

Generation 10 Pokémon Games: A Potential Original Switch Launch?

While details 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. Enhanced performance on the Switch 2, mirroring improvements seen on newer Xbox and PlayStation consoles with older titles, is possible but unconfirmed. How Nintendo might incentivize Switch 2 ports remains unclear, given backward compatibility.

Currently, no official announcements regarding Generation 10 exist. Treat this information with caution. The February 27th Pokémon Presents event might offer clarity, though it's reportedly focused on original Switch titles, not the Switch 2. If Generation 10 targets the original Switch, a dedicated Switch 2 main series Pokémon game might be years away.