The upcoming Pokémon titles, tentatively titled Winds and Waves, are slated for a release on the Nintendo Switch 2 next year, but details remain scarce. This lack of official information has fueled rampant speculation, particularly surrounding a recent rumor from CentroLeaks on X (formerly Twitter). The claim suggests that Winds and Waves could introduce approximately 300 new Pokémon and their associated forms, a figure that would represent the largest influx of new creatures in the franchise's history.
While CentroLeaks notes that they have "independently verif[ied] with other sources and they have heard similar information," they also caution that the information should be treated as a rumor. This has led to a mixed reaction among fans. Some express concern that such a high quantity might compromise quality, with one X user stating, "I hope the quantity matches the quality." Others are more enthusiastic, with one commenter suggesting that "300 new pokemon woulda sold me without any gimmick introduced."
The rumor's potential link to weather-based forms has particularly energized some fans. They hope for expanded mechanics for Castform, the Generation 3 Pokémon known for its weather-dependent form changes. The idea of new variations for Castform and other Pokémon, tied to weather conditions, aligns with speculation about the game's themes. Fans have also raised questions about potential new evolutions for popular Pokémon like Eevee, with some hoping for a Dragon-type evolution.
Further details shared on the PokeLeaks subreddit suggest a total Pokédex of around 530 Pokémon, with 300 being entirely new entries. This has prompted discussion about how such a large number might be achieved, with many pointing to regional and weather-based forms as the likely explanation. One Redditor speculated, "Calling it now that its 307 spaces for unique models to display in the Pokedex," suggesting a focus on variations.
The concept of weather-based forms and regional variants is not entirely unfounded. A previously leaked document from Game Freak in 2024 reportedly outlined elements that seem to be appearing in Winds and Waves, including a focus on weather and "seed" Pokémon. The game's initial trailer has also seemingly corroborated some of these earlier leaks regarding the starter trio's appearances. If weather significantly influences Pokémon evolution or form changes, it could plausibly account for a large number of new entries.
Currently, official information about Winds and Waves is limited to the starter trio, a couple of new Pikachu-like Pokémon, and a selection of returning Pokémon confirmed in the announcement trailer. With the game not expected until 2027, further rumors and official details are anticipated throughout the coming year.