Pokémon fans are convinced FireRed & LeafGreen are finally coming to the Nintendo Switch 2.
Released back in 2004, Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen are updated takes on the original 1996 Red and Blue games that introduced a number of audio and graphic improvements as well as a new post-game area – the Sevii Islands.
Earlier this week, reliable Pokémon leaker Khu teased that the two games will “return” soon. That was swiftly followed up by another report from Centro Leaks that claimed FireRed and LeafGreen would be paid games available via the digital store and not a free addition to the Switch Online Library.
Further information from a different leaker:
– eShop paid releases, not part of Nintendo Switch Online.
– Will have HOME compatibility https://t.co/rHBfOQPSuv— Centro LEAKS (@CentroLeaks) February 11, 2026
This year is the 30th anniversary of Pokémon and a Presents showcase is expected to take place on February 27, AKA Pokémon Day. If the rumours are true, it’s likely they’ll be confirmed during that presentation.
“This would be an instant buy. Please don’t get my hopes up for nothing,” wrote one fan on Reddit. “F*** it. I choose to believe,” said another. “Honestly, it shocks me that they have yet to port everything pre-gen 6 to the shop. They’d make a killing,” added a third.
There seems to be a rumor going around that Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen will release on the eShop as one of the 30th anniversary announcements.
ALL Pokemon games should be on the eShop. I think it's crazy that you can't buy Gens 1-7 on Switch now… pic.twitter.com/frwxLe626N
— Stealth (@Stealth40k) February 11, 2026
However other fans are frustrated that Nintendo are reportedly only focusing on the first generation of Pokémon games instead of celebrating the franchise as a whole.
“I really want a remake of Gold & Silver though at this point, I’d settle if they were to just put the classic Pokémon games on Nintendo Switch Online. Those are some of my favourite games of all time,” wrote one fan. “There’s such a fun duality in the comments of people either being deeply upset and people being excited and willing to throw money at this,” explained another.
Since 2023, Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance titles have been available to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. Despite many classic games being added to that library, none of the Pokémon games have ever been made available.
Earlier this week, a new 30th anniversary trailer had Lady Gaga and BLACKPINK’s JISOO sharing their favourite Pokémon.
Over the next 12 months, Pokémon fans will be able to take part in “fan-focused experiences that encourage the larger community to come together in real life,” under the ‘Day Out’ and ‘Night Out’ banners. “Day Out events will feature family-friendly activities and programming, and Night Out events will have fun surprises in store for longtime fans who grew up with Pokémon,” with more details set to be announced soon.
In other news, Chappell Roan has revealed she’s a huge fan of the soundtrack to online multiplayer game RuneScape.
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