When will the next Pokémon game be released on Nintendo Switch? We’re here to help with confirmed release dates for the next three Pokémon console games.
It’s nearly two years since Pokémon Sword and Shield were released for the Nintendo Switch. Since then, both games have received significant content expansions. There were also followed by a remake of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team and the marvellous New Pokémon Snap.
However, the next mainline games in the franchise are still some ways off. In the meantime, two more remakes and an ambitious open-world adventure are now dated for release on Nintendo Switch.
Here’s a recap of what fans can look forward to:
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl
What is it?
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are remakes of the 2006 mainline RPGs released for the Nintendo DS. They continue a long line of Pokemon updates that includes FireRed, LeafGreen, Omega Ruby, Alpha Sapphire, and most recently, Let’s Go Eevee and Let’s Go Pikachu.
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl feature a new graphical style similar to Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening remake, although not quite as beautiful.
Diamond and Pearl are set in Sinnoh, a region based on the real-life Japanese island of Hokkaidō. The original games are notable for shaking up to the series’ battle mechanics and the addition of Pokémon contests. They introduced over 100 new Pokemon to the National Pokédex, including Kricketune, Burmy, and Turtwig. It remains to be seen how some of the features that relied on the Nintendo DS touchscreen will be implemented, but these are well-remembered games that should still shine 15 years on.
When is it out?
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are set for worldwide release on November 19, 2021. Each game will be available from the Nintendo eShop and physical retailers. A double-pack containing both titles will also be available.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus
What is it?
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a brand new open-world action RPG. The game is also set in the Sinnoh region, many years before the events of Diamond and Pearl. Unlike the core series, players can capture Pokémon in the wild without battling. Early footage of the game shows the influence of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild in the game’s environments and atmosphere. A subtle steampunk vibe is also evident. Pokéballs, for example, are made from wood and let out a cute puff of steam when they capture a Pokémon.
Not much is known about the game’s overall structure, other than players being tasked with creating the region’s first Pokédex. Mythical Pokémon Arceus also plays a key role in the game’s story.
When is it out?
Pokémon Legends: Arceus will be released worldwide on January 28, 2022. It will be available via the Nintendo eShop and physical retailers.
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