Pokémon turns 30 with Kanto nostalgia and bold new adventures.
Pokémon turns 30 on Pokémon Day 2026, marking three decades of adventures that began on the original Game Boy and now stretch into the Nintendo Switch 2 era. From the return of Pokémon FireRed and Pokémon LeafGreen on Nintendo Switch to the first look at Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves, this anniversary celebration proves the franchise is evolving faster than ever.
For me, it started with an OG gray Game Boy. I did not own the original games at launch, but a friend let me borrow Pokémon Blue, and that was all it took. I saved every dollar I could. By the time Pokémon Yellow was released, I bought it alongside a yellow Game Boy Color, and it felt like leveling up in real life. Thirty years later, that same Kanto magic is back in the spotlight.
What Is Pokémon Day and Why Is 2026 So Important?
Pokémon Day takes place every year on Feb. 27, celebrating the launch of the original games in Japan. However, 2026 marks the franchise’s 30th anniversary, making this year’s celebration one of the biggest yet.
A new Pokémon Presents broadcast delivered major reveals across video games, music, and competitive events. From classic remasters to brand-new RPG entries, the future looks as strong as the nostalgia.
FireRed and LeafGreen on Nintendo Switch: Release Date and Details
Pokémon FireRed Version and Pokémon LeafGreen Version launch Feb. 27 on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo Switch. These beloved Game Boy Advance remakes return players to the Kanto region with updated access for modern hardware.
The classic soundtrack is also now available on Nintendo Music, including “Pallet Town Theme,” “A Rival Appears,” and “Battle! (Gym Leader Battle).” For longtime fans, this is a direct hit of nostalgia. For new players, it is a chance to experience where the global phenomenon truly exploded.
Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves: Everything Revealed for Switch 2
The biggest surprise of the Pokémon Presents was the first look at Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves, two upcoming RPG entries coming exclusively to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027.
Set across windswept islands and glittering oceans, the games introduce new main characters, brand-new first partner Pokémon, and special redesigned Pikachu. A global simultaneous launch is planned, signaling a major push for the next generation of Pokémon players.
Pokémon Champions, Pokopia, and Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Updates
The celebration did not stop there.
- Pokémon Champions launches in April 2026 on Nintendo Switch, with early players receiving a Dragonite.
- Pokémon Pokopia arrives March 5, 2026, featuring Stereo Rotom, town-building elements, and multiplayer activities.
- Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness returns in March 2026 via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack for Nintendo Switch 2, allowing players to revisit the Orre region and battle Shadow Lugia. However, Pokémon transfers will not be supported in the rerelease of Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness.
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Sean Tajipour
Sean Tajipour is the Founder and Editor of Nerdtropolis and the host of the Moviegoers Society and Reel Insights Podcast. He is also a member of the Critics Choice Association. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram @Seantaj.
