The next generation of Pokémon is finally here – or will be, at least, when Pokémon Winds and Waves eventually launches. While the announcement trailer didn’t specify this, it’s outright confirmed on the official website that this will be an open-world title.
Players will explore “beautiful windswept islands and a vast ocean with glittering waves that ebb and flow.” Furthermore, you’ll encounter Pokémon that “live in harmony with this region’s lush environment and have developed their own unique ecosystems.” Interestingly, it seems you’ll be teaming with all kinds of them to “overcome both the difficult road ahead and even the forces of nature that block your path at times.”
Besides the fact that each version’s set of protagonists has slightly different hats, backpacks and what appear to be hoverboards (all the better for exploration), you’ll also encounter new Special Pikachu – Mr Windychu and Ms Wavychu. While their unique looks are quite cute, they also seem to have some significant story involvement, with Nintendo teasing more details in “future announcements.”
The open-world structure could be a source of concern for some, especially since the last such titles, Scarlet and Violet, were plagued with performance issues. Nevertheless, that was on the original Switch, so maybe being exclusive to the Switch 2 won’t result in the same.
Pokémon Winds and Waves will launch in 2027. In the meantime, Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen, Game Boy Advance remakes of Red and Green, are available now for Switch players. Unfortunately, they cost $20 each, don’t support multiple languages, and won’t be coming to Nintendo Switch Online anytime soon.
