Leaked information suggests that the upcoming Generation 10 Pokémon games may launch on both the original Nintendo Switch and the Switch 2. While the Switch 2's backward compatibility ensures playability regardless, the leak points to a primary development focus on the original Switch console, with a separate, enhanced version ("Super Gaia") potentially planned for the Switch 2. This is surprising, given the performance issues experienced by Pokémon Scarlet and Violet on the original Switch.
The leak, originating from a Game Freak hacker and shared by Centro Leaks, identifies "Gaia" as the codename for the Generation 10 games' primary development target – the original Switch. A potential Switch 2 port, "Super Gaia," is also mentioned, alongside a possible native Switch 2 release for Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
The implications are significant. While Switch 2 owners will be able to play the Generation 10 titles regardless, a primary focus on the original Switch hardware might mean a less graphically impressive experience on the newer console. The potential performance improvements on the Switch 2 for these games remains uncertain. Nintendo's strategy for incentivizing Switch 2 purchases of these titles, considering backward compatibility, is also unclear.
All this information remains unconfirmed. While a Pokemon Presents event is anticipated on February 27th, it's rumored to focus on games for the original Switch, potentially delaying a dedicated Switch 2 Pokémon title for years. Therefore, fans should treat this leaked information as speculative until official announcements are made.
