Nintendo's next big Pokémon game has been announced with new starter Pokémon, a brand new location, and more. Here's everything you need to know.
On Friday, February 27, Nintendo took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves, arriving next year as a Switch 2 exclusive and the first new mainline entry in the Pokémon franchise since Switch 2 released.
As you may already know, Pokémon Pokopia was the first Pokémon-associated game, arriving on March 5, as a Switch 2 exclusive. However, it is a cosy life simulation spin-off set in the same universe, where we do have Pokémon but no traditional creature collection feature.
On the other hand, Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves are role-playing titles featuring a vast open world where you can catch and use Pokémon to progress through the brand new story and engage in and clear the different activities.
In #PokemonWindsWaves, releasing exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2, you'll travel across beautiful windswept islands and a vast ocean with glittering waves that ebb and flow.
— Pokemon (@Pokemon) February 27, 2026
You'll also team up with Pokemon to overcome challenges and even the forces of nature! pic.twitter.com/had2IoBtxc
Both games will get a simultaneous global release in 2027, and yes, they are Switch 2 exclusive, making them the first new mainline entries on the Switch 2 platform.
Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves are set in a brand new open world location, an archipelago featuring "beautiful windswept islands and a vast ocean with glittering waves."
Here is how the developers describe the Pokémon ecosystem and the environment:
The Pokémon that live in harmony with this region’s lush environment have developed their own unique ecosystems. During this adventure, you’ll team up with all kinds of Pokémon to overcome both the difficult road ahead and even the forces of nature that block your path at times.
The New Main Characters
Following in the footsteps of the previous Pokémon games, Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves, both versions, will feature new protagonists who sport a different outfit depending on which version of the game you are playing.
The New Starter Pokémon
Just like previous entries, Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves will feature three new starter Pokémon. These are:
- Browt - A Grass-type Pokémon described as the lively but clumsy Bean Chick
- Pombon - A Fire-type Pokémon described as the guileless and friendly Puppy
- Gecqua - A Water-type agile Water Gecko Pokémon
Introducing the first partner Pokemon from #PokemonWindsWaves!
— Pokemon (@Pokemon) February 27, 2026
Say hello to Browt , Pombon , and Gecqua . Who will you partner with on this adventure, Trainers? pic.twitter.com/UfKtE5lszu
Mr. Windychu and Ms. Wavychu
Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves will introduce two new special Pikachu with unique appearances, Mr. Windychu and Ms. Wavychu, who will be playing a key role in the game's story.
These Pikachu sport brand-new appearances and will debut in #PokemonWindsWaves!
— Pokemon (@Pokemon) February 27, 2026
Just how could these Pikachu be involved in your adventure? pic.twitter.com/YlTPlusJNt