Pokémon Winds and Waves revealed, headed underwater on Switch 2

During today’s Pokémon Presents the very leaked games Pokémon Winds and Waves were finally revealed. They are set in a very aquatic region featuring swamps, oceans and marinas, and the trailer suggested a significantly improved engine. The pair were announced only for the Switch 2, a move that disappointed some players but may be seen as necessary if Game Freak is to escape criticism of its crummy graphics.

The games won’t arrive until 2027, creating an unprecedented five-year gap between mainline Pokémon releases in the series’ 30-year history. The date was a surprise — the titles had been expected in 2025 and many assumed a holiday 2026 launch — and the ambiguous “2027” window could still mean up to a 22-month wait if they aim for their usual season.

The reveal emphasized underwater play, showing a much wetter world than the franchise typically offers and hinting at why Switch 2 exclusivity might be necessary for handling water effects.

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