The Pokémon 30th anniversary announcements delivered major surprises during the January 27 Pokémon Presents livestream. The Pokémon Company unveiled new mainline games, mobile updates, collectables, and competitive titles to mark the franchise’s 30th anniversary.
The presentation outlined ambitious plans stretching into 2027, highlighting the next generation of Pokémon experiences.
The biggest reveal was Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves, set to launch in 2027 exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2.
Game Freak showcased a tropical archipelago filled with roaming Tropius, volcanic terrain featuring Slugma, and a dramatic Wailord breaching offshore.
Three new starter Pokémon were introduced:
- Browt – Grass-type “Bean Chick” Pokémon
- Pombon – Fire-type “Puppy Pokémon” inspired by Pomeranians
- Gecqua – Water-type “Water Gecko Pokémon”
The teaser also featured two costumed Pikachu characters, nicknamed “Mr Windychu and Mrs Wavychu” by fans, hinting at expanded customisation options.
Pokémon Champions Release Window
The company confirmed that Pokémon Champions, a competitive battle-focused title, will launch on Nintendo Switch in April. Mobile versions are scheduled to arrive later this year.
Game Boy Jukebox and Classic Titles
A nostalgic surprise came with the return of the Game Boy Jukebox, a miniature Game Boy device pre-loaded with 45 chiptune tracks from Pokémon Red and Blue.
Additionally, Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness arrives on GameCube Nintendo in March 2005, while Fire Red and Leaf Green join Nintendo Switch Online.
Read: Pokémon Legends: Z-A Launches with Real-Time Battles and Paris-Inspired City
Fans can also purchase anniversary collectables at Pokémon stores in the U.S., U.K., and Canada. The anniversary celebrations extend to mobile and trading card platforms:
- Pokémon Go hosts the “All Out” 30th anniversary event from March 7–9
- Pokémon TCG launches its first-ever simultaneous global expansion
- Mew joins Pokémon Sleep
- Anniversary sync pairs debut in Pokémon Masters EX
- Legends: Z-A introduces Mega Garchomp Z
Together, these updates reflect one of the most ambitious milestones in Pokémon history.
