Summary

• Leaks suggest that the Generation 10 Pokemon games might be released for both the original Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2.
• The Switch 2 is expected to be backward compatible, allowing it to play games from the original Switch, including Generation 10 Pokemon titles.
• More information on future Pokemon games is anticipated during the Pokemon Presents event on February 27.

The latest leaks from the Pokemon franchise indicate that the upcoming Generation 10 games could be released on both the original Nintendo Switch and the Switch 2. Although no official announcements have been made about Generation 10, it was widely speculated that these games would be developed exclusively for the Switch 2, especially after the performance issues experienced with the Generation 9 games, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, on the original Switch.

The open-world nature of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet strained the capabilities of the original Switch, leading many to believe that Game Freak would shift development to the more powerful Switch 2 for the next generation. However, recent leaks shared by Centro Leaks from a Game Freak hacker suggest a different approach. The Generation 10 games, codenamed "Gaia," are reportedly being developed primarily for the original Switch. Additionally, a version called "Super Gaia" is believed to be in development for the Switch 2. There's also speculation that Pokemon Legends: Z-A might receive a native release on the Switch 2.

Generation 10 Pokemon Games Could Be Coming to the Original Switch

While details about the Switch 2 are still scarce, it has been confirmed that the console will be backward compatible with games from the original Switch. This means that owners of the Switch 2 will be able to play the Generation 10 Pokemon games and Pokemon Legends: Z-A, even if they are released natively on the original Switch. The Switch 2 may also run these games more efficiently, similar to how newer Xbox and PlayStation consoles enhance the performance of older titles, though this remains to be seen. It's unclear how Nintendo plans to enhance these potential Switch 2 ports, given the console's inherent compatibility.

As of now, no official announcements have been made regarding the Generation 10 Pokemon games, so all information should be treated with caution. Fans might learn more during the anticipated Pokemon Presents event on February 27, which is expected to focus on games coming to the original Switch rather than the Switch 2. If the Generation 10 games are indeed targeting the original Switch, it could be some time before the Switch 2 sees a dedicated main series Pokemon game.