SUMMARY
- Pokémon Wind and Waves launches in 2027 for Nintendo Switch 2
- New open world archipelago setting with underwater exploration
- Three starter Pokémon headline the 10th generation reveal
TOKYO — The Pokémon Company on Thursday revealed Pokémon Wind and Waves, the 10th generation of its flagship role playing franchise, scheduled for release in 2027 on the Nintendo Switch 2.
The dual titles introduce a new island region, underwater gameplay and three original starter Pokémon, marking three decades since the series’ 1996 debut.
The announcement came during a global Pokémon Presents livestream watched by millions.
Company executives positioned Pokémon Wind and Waves as a technological step forward for the long running franchise, citing expanded exploration mechanics and improved visual performance.
The franchise debuted in Japan in 1996 and has since grown into one of the world’s highest grossing entertainment properties.
The ninth generation, 2022’s Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, introduced an open world structure and Terastallization battle mechanics.
Early leaks from developer Game Freak in 2025 referenced an island based map and procedural systems, elements now reflected in Pokémon Wind and Waves.
The new titles are set across a sprawling archipelago featuring jungles, mangrove swamps, lava caves and a futuristic resort. Starter Pokémon include Grass type bird Browt, Fire-type pooch Pombon and Water type lizard Gecqua.
Serkan Toto, CEO of Kantan Games, said the shift to a hardware successor allows the developer to “address performance criticisms raised during the ninth generation.”
Joost van Dreunen, lecturer at NYU Stern School of Business, said anniversary releases often “serve as inflection points for platform adoption and long-term monetization strategies.”
Tsunekazu Ishihara, president of The Pokémon Company, said during the broadcast the goal was to create “a world that feels alive above and below the sea.”
Junichi Masuda, chief creative fellow at The Pokémon Company, said the new region was designed to encourage cooperative exploration.
With Nintendo preparing the Switch 2 launch window, Pokémon Wind and Waves is expected to play a central role in early software sales and global brand expansion.
As the franchise marks 30 years, Pokémon Wind and Waves signals a generational reset built on technical upgrades, new creatures and expanded exploration.
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