Next Pokemon Presents Event May Be Disappointing for Switch 2

Summary

• Don't expect any announcements about Pokémon games for the Nintendo Switch 2 during the upcoming Pokémon Presents on February 27th.
• Leaks suggest an imminent Switch 2 reveal, but Pokémon titles will likely remain on the original console for now.
• The February 27th Pokémon Presents will probably focus on Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

Pokémon fans anticipating news of Switch 2 Pokémon titles might be disappointed by the upcoming Pokémon Presents scheduled for Thursday, February 27th. Pokémon has been a staple on Nintendo hardware since its Game Boy debut in the 90s, but a Switch 2 presence may take longer than expected.

While Nintendo hasn't officially unveiled the Switch 2, its existence is confirmed. We know it will be backward compatible with the original Switch, retain Nintendo accounts, and launch within this fiscal year—all information gleaned from official statements and leaks. These leaks paint a picture of a more powerful, larger version of the original Switch.

New Pokémon games will undoubtedly arrive on the Switch 2 eventually. However, those hoping for announcements during the February 27th Pokémon Presents should temper their expectations. Reports suggest the Presents will showcase Pokémon games developed for the original Switch, leveraging backward compatibility for the new console.

Pokémon Presents: No Switch 2 News Expected

The upcoming Pokémon Presents will likely feature updates on ongoing live-service titles like Pokémon GO and Pokémon Trading Card Game Live. Fans also anticipate news on Pokémon Legends: Z-A, slated for release on the original Switch this year. So far, only a brief teaser trailer showcasing Lumiose City, returning Pokémon, and the return of Mega Evolutions has been released. Rumors, however, suggest another mainline Pokémon game is in the works for this year.

There are whispers of a new mainline Pokémon game launching this year, separate from Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Generation 10. Speculation points towards Pokémon Black and White remakes or another Let's Go installment. These, if the leaks are accurate, would also release for the original Switch, not the Switch 2. This suggests the first Switch 2-exclusive mainline Pokémon games might be the eventual Generation 10 titles.

The Pokémon franchise has a history of prioritizing older hardware with larger install bases. Recall that Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 launched on the original DS instead of the 3DS. History, it seems, may repeat itself. However, until official confirmation, fans will have to tune into the February 27th Pokémon Presents for definitive answers.