The upcoming Pokémon games, tentatively titled Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves, are set to launch in 2027 and will mark the beginning of the tenth generation of Pokémon RPGs. These titles will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, a move likely driven by the need for enhanced performance following technical difficulties encountered with the original Switch.
A New Region Inspired by Southeast Asia
The games will introduce an open-world region that draws heavily from Southeast Asia, with clear influences from the Philippines, as well as hints of Indonesia and Malaysia. This approach follows the series' tradition of basing regions on real-world locations, such as Kalos being inspired by France and Unova by the United States. These inspirations typically extend beyond geography to include cultural elements, which are expected to be reflected in Winds and Waves.
Underwater Exploration
Building on recent experiments with open-world design in titles like Pokémon Legends: Arceus and Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Winds and Waves will significantly expand player freedom. A key new feature is the ability to explore the game world both above and below water. The announcement trailer showcased underwater diving, promising the discovery of Pokémon not found on land, a more advanced take on the diving mechanics seen in earlier games like Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire.
Version Differences and Customization
Pokémon games traditionally differentiate between paired versions, often through exclusive Pokémon, characters, and locations. Winds and Waves are expected to continue this trend. Players will receive different starting outfits based on their chosen version: Winds protagonists will wear a white cowboy hat and backpack, while Waves protagonists will sport a blue cap and bag. Both outfits feature distinct logos, the significance of which remains to be seen, though it may allude to different factions or institutions within the game world.
Starter Pokémon Revealed
Three new starter Pokémon have been revealed: Browt, a grass-type bird; Pombon, a fire-type dog; and Gecqua, a water-type gecko. These selections are designed to introduce new players to the series' elemental type system.
Returning Pokémon and Unique Characters
In addition to the starters, the first trailer featured several returning Pokémon, including Pikachu, Gloom, Tropius, Wailmer, Wailord, Nymble, Tailow, Tangela, Oddish, Ledyba, Ledian, Slugma, Sizzlipede, Wingull, Krabby, Sandygast, Corsola, Mareanie, Toxapex, Tympole, Carnivine, Duskull, Lumineon, Tynamo, and Frillish. The games will also feature two unique Pikachu characters named Mr. Windychu and Ms. Wavychu, styled as a beach vacationing couple and seemingly tied to their respective game titles. Their specific roles and whether they appear in both versions are yet to be confirmed.
Unconfirmed Rumors and Leaks
Numerous unconfirmed details are circulating online, including potential Pokédex numbers, new evolutions for existing Pokémon, and information about the game's battle gimmick. Some of this information stems from the Game Freak Teraleak, while other rumors originate from individuals claiming access to early builds. Players are advised to approach such information with caution.
The shift to the Switch 2 is anticipated to bring a significant technical upgrade, addressing the performance issues that plagued Scarlet and Violet on the original Switch. This upgrade aims to ensure a smoother gameplay experience, potentially at a stable 60 frames per second, prompting players who have not yet upgraded to consider doing so before the game's release.