Pokemon Leak May Reveal Surprising Plan for Generation 10 Games

Pokémon Generation 10: Dual Switch Release Possible?

Recent leaks suggest a surprising development regarding the upcoming Pokémon Generation 10 games. Instead of a sole release on the Nintendo Switch 2, as many anticipated, both the original Nintendo Switch and the Switch 2 may receive native versions.

While unannounced, the assumption was that Generation 10 would bypass the original Switch due to the performance issues plaguing Pokémon Scarlet and Violet on the older hardware. The open-world design of Gen 9 proved demanding, leading many to believe Game Freak would target the Switch 2's superior capabilities.

However, leaks from a Game Freak hacker, relayed by Centro Leaks, paint a different picture. The project codenamed "Gaia" appears to be the primary Generation 10 development for the original Switch. A separate project, "Super Gaia," is reportedly a Switch 2 version. Furthermore, a native Switch 2 release for Pokémon Legends: Z-A is also hinted at.

Backward Compatibility and Potential Performance Enhancements

The confirmed backward compatibility of the Switch 2 ensures that owners of the new console can play both Generation 10 and Legends: Z-A regardless of native releases. While the Switch 2 might offer improved performance for these titles, similar to enhancements seen on newer Xbox and PlayStation consoles, this remains unconfirmed. How Nintendo might incentivize Switch 2 owners to play these ports, given backward compatibility, is unclear.

A Grain of Salt and February 27th's Pokémon Presents

It's crucial to remember that all this information is based on leaks and should be treated with caution. Official announcements are pending, and the upcoming Pokémon Presents event on February 27th might shed light on the matter. However, reports suggest the event will primarily focus on games for the original Switch, potentially indicating a longer wait for a dedicated Switch 2 Pokémon title. If Generation 10 targets the original Switch, a main series Pokémon game specifically designed for the Switch 2 may be years away.