New leaks regarding Pokémon's 10th generation suggest that the franchise may deviate from a 14-year tradition. While Nintendo remains tight-lipped about future titles, rumors and leaks have stirred interest and speculation about Pokémon's Gen 10 games.

 

Credible Sources and Leaks

Not all Pokémon leaks are reliable, but some sources have built reputations for accuracy. For instance, X (formerly Twitter) users Centro LEAKS and Riddler_Khu are known for disseminating trustworthy information over the years.

 

Breaking the Three-Year Cycle

According to Centro LEAKS on X, the Gen 10 games are rumored to release in 2026, coinciding with Pokémon's 30th anniversary. This breaks the long-standing tradition of releasing new core games every three years. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet were released in 2022, which means Gen 10 would appear after a four-year gap.

 

Historical Context of Release Patterns

Since Pokémon Black and White (Gen 5) in 2010, new generations have appeared every three years. Gen 6's X and Y were released in 2013, followed by Gen 7's Sun and Moon in 2016, and so on. While this break in tradition might surprise many, it aligns with milestone anniversaries. For instance, Pokémon Legends: Arceus was announced for the 25th anniversary in 2021.

 

Benefits of a 2026 Release

Releasing Gen 10 in 2026 has several advantages:

  • 30th Anniversary: Aligning with this milestone adds significant marketing value.
  • Switch 2 Compatibility: The new Nintendo console, expected before March 2025, will likely host Gen 10, offering improved performance and graphics.
  • Extended Development Time: More time allows for polishing the games, potentially avoiding the issues that plagued Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

 

Breaking Traditions for Improvement

While traditions are important, they should not hinder progress. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet needed more development time, and Gen 10 can benefit from learning from these mistakes. Extra development time allows for innovation and refinement.

 

Anticipated Releases

Although Gen 10 might not arrive until 2026, Pokémon Legends: Z-A could release in 2025, providing a major new title in the interim. This game is highly anticipated and should keep fans engaged until the next generation's debut.

 

Conclusion

While leaks should be taken with caution, sources like Centro LEAKS lend credibility to the speculation of a 2026 release for Gen 10. The alignment with Pokémon's 30th anniversary and the anticipated Switch 2 release further support this timing. If true, 2026 could be a monumental year for Pokémon, delivering some of the franchise's most impressive games yet.