Pokémon Winds and Waves Officially Announced for 2027 Release
The Pokémon Company has officially announced the next mainline entries in the global video game franchise.
“Pokémon Winds and Waves” were unveiled during a special Pokémon Presents broadcast held on February 27, 2026.
This announcement marks the center point of the 30th anniversary celebrations for the franchise, which originally debuted in Japan in 1996.
The upcoming adventure is being developed specifically for the Nintendo Switch 2 and promises to utilize the increased power of the new hardware.
A debut teaser trailer provided a first look at the vast new region that players will explore when the games launch next year.
The footage showcased diverse environments ranging from windswept plains to crystalline coastal areas and mysterious ruins.
Fans were also introduced to the three new partner Pokémon that will accompany trainers at the start of their journey.
The Grass-type starter Haburou is officially known as Browt in the English version of the game.
For those who prefer Fire-types, the energetic canine creature Pombon has been revealed as the second option for new players.
The trio is completed by the elegant Water-type partner, which carries the English name of Gecqua.
Each of these creatures features a unique design that reflects the elemental themes and natural beauty of the new region.
In other 30th-anniversary related news, the official Pokémon Center has announced three new ranges of merchandise.
Fans can check out the new “Pokémon Timeless Adventure” stationery line, which focuses on the Kanto region and features exclusive artwork of Pikachu and the classic starter creatures peering at a Pokédex in a laboratory.
The retro-styled “Pikachu of Beginnings” plushies perfectly replicate the vintage, chubby aesthetic of the iconic mascot from the original 1996 video games.
Those looking for a sparkling commemorative item can grab the “30th Anniversary Pika Pika! Pikachu” plushies, featuring high-quality velour treated with a delicate glitter finish and a celebratory birthday ribbon.
Fans visiting Tokyo can also look forward to the “Pokémon Card Game TOKYO LUMINOUS NIGHT Celebrating 30 Years” event, a massive projection mapping light show set to take place at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building that will showcase dynamic representations of nostalgic classic cards.
Travelers flying around the globe can even take to the skies with ANA on three newly announced aircraft designs as part of the “Pokémon Jet” project, featuring Red, Green, and Blue themes.
Sports enthusiasts can also celebrate at various stadiums in Japan through the “Professional Baseball 12 Teams x Pokémon 30th Anniversary Special Project”, featuring exclusive apparel and special Pokémon GO raid events.
The full Pokémon Presents is now available to view on YouTube:
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