Pokemon Wind and Wave: Turn-Based Battles Confirmed for Mainline Nintendo Switch Release

The next era of mainline Pokémon games has been officially named Pokémon Wind and Wave, based on recently surfaced and verified documentation.

Developed by Game Freak and headed for a highly anticipated release on the Nintendo Switch, this installment marks a significant return to traditional franchise gameplay mechanics, explicitly confirming a turn-based battle system.

This decision sets Pokémon Wind and Wave apart from the design direction seen in the latest release, Pokémon Legends Z-A, which experimented with innovative battle mechanics to shake up the classic formula. The Pokémon franchise, published by Nintendo and developed by Game Freak, has maintained a strong presence since its debut in 1996.

For decades, the turn-based battle system has become synonymous with Pokémon’s identity, allowing players to strategize and anticipate their opponents' moves.

However, recent titles such as Pokémon Legends Z-A, released in 2025, introduced a blend of real-time and turn-based elements, dividing the fanbase and sparking conversation about the future direction of the series. According to officially leaked materials, Pokémon Wind and Wave will restore the familiar turn-based combat system.

Game Freak representatives stated in carefully worded documentation that the decision to reinstate this system comes after considerable feedback from the community, reinforcing their commitment to the series’ legacy and core gameplay identity. Additional details from the same documentation reveal key changes to in-game features and narrative elements.

The widely requested ability to ride all Pokémon, which saw expanded experimentation in Pokémon Legends Z-A, has been significantly reduced in scope for Wind and Wave.

This adjustment is a direct response to balancing development resources and ensuring smoother gameplay experiences, according to Game Freak’s internal commentary.

Furthermore, the stories told through the game’s main characters have gone through extensive revisions compared to early drafts, promising a fresh approach to narrative delivery within the Pokémon universe. Previous sales milestones for the Pokémon franchise underscore the importance of these design decisions.

Pokémon Legends Z-A achieved remarkable sales figures through digital and physical release on the Nintendo Switch, solidifying the system’s legacy as a powerhouse for franchise entries.

With the upcoming launch of Pokémon Wind and Wave, expectations are high as fans await classic turn-based battles, streamlined gameplay features, and new character arcs to revitalize the experience. The return to turn-based combat in Pokémon Wind and Wave represents Game Freak’s ongoing dialogue with its dedicated community.

As the game prepares to enter the Nintendo Switch lineup and the Nintendo eShop, long-standing and new players alike can look forward to a mainline installment that blends tradition and innovation, staying true to what has defined Pokémon for generations.

Pokémon Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Pokemon Pokemon Legends Z-A Z Pokemon Wind Pokemon Wind and Wave Game Freak