Happy Pokémon Day! Thirty years have passed — THIRTY, like, three-zero — since the Pokémon media franchise made its debut, and The Pokémon Company officially kicked off festivities with an electrifying, announcement-packed broadcast on its official YouTube channel. “Join us in celebrating 30 years of Pokémon!” reads the description for the nearly 25-minute showcase.
Pokémon Day is an annual, fan-oriented holiday commemorating the launch of the blockbuster games Pokémon Red and Pokémon Green, which were first released in Japan on Feb. 27, 1996. Three decades later (!!!), the company is introducing contemporary content to a whole new audience while promising heartwarming nostalgia for their parents.
“Pokémon has captured the imagination of millions around the world,” said Kenji Okubo, president of The Pokémon Company International. “This Pokémon Day is extra special as we kick off the celebration of 30 years of Pokémon with exciting announcements for Trainers everywhere. I can’t wait to see ‘What’s Your Favourite’ as we embark on new adventures together.”
Miss the Friday morning presentation? You’re not the only one. Check out our quick recap of all things “Pocket Monsters” you missed from today’s Pokémon celebration:
Pokémon Winds, Pokémon Waves hit Nintendo Switch 2 next year
Developed by GAME FREAK inc., Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves are the latest titles coming to the Pokémon RPG series. While we won’t see the game’s adorable new starters — Browt (left), Pombon (center), and Gecqua (right) — ’til they land on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027 on the Nintendo Switch 2 system, we CAN anticipate a sprawling new environment complete with lush, pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Pokémon Champions releases on Nintendo Switch in April 2026
Pokémon Champions game on Nintendo Switch — and later this year on mobile devices. “Battle with Pokémon—including with Mega-Evolved Pokémon, like Mega Dragonite—against other players in the Pokémon™ Champions game—the same game that will be used for the Pokémon World Championships in 2026! These single and double battles use familiar mechanics from previous Pokémon series games such as Pokémon types, Abilities, and moves, enabling the rich and varied battle strategies you may already know and love.”
New look at Pokémon Pokopia gameplay
On March 5, Pokémon Pokopia will launch on Nintendo Switch 2! Players will get to join their favorite Pocket Monsters on a “cozy new adventure and build a world for everyone to live in.” Pokémon Pokopia has multiplayer capabilities, so up to three other gamers can join you. Visit friends’ towns and bring your in-game best friend with you, too!
Pokémon FireRed Version, Pokémon LeafGreen Version available now
FINALLY — Pokémon FireRed Version and Pokémon LeafGreen Version, remakes of the Pokémon Red and Pokémon Green games, are available today as part of Nintendo Switch as digital titles to celebrate 30 years of the brand.
Other surprises from today’s Pokémon Day broadcast
Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension: Players can now claim a Mystery Gift that unlocks the chance to enter “a special hyperspace distortion where they must battle and defeat a Mega Garchomp Z to obtain a Garchompite Z stone.” Take on the titanic, Dragon-type Mach Pokémon today!
Pokémon GO: Happy 10th birthday to the blockbuster mobile game, Pokémon GO! From GO Passes and new milestone bonuses to Ditto-related developments, the app’s anniversary has it all.
Pokémon Café ReMix: Reunion time! All first partner Pokémon from each region will be part of a roundup starting on Feb. 28. According to the presentation, the event will kick off with individual events for Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle (each with a commemorative in-game brooch).
Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket: The new Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket for iOS and Android devices, developed by the original TCG’s creators at Creatures Inc., and DeNA Co., Ltd., is available now.
Pokémon UNITE: Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres are now in Pokémon UNITE, and players can participate in an in-game event for a chance to unlock their Unite licenses. Additionally, players can expect to see Meganium, Typhlosion, and Feraligatr soon, as well as Electrode Volleyball.
Pokémon TCG Expansion: Get ready, trainers! The Pokémon TCG is getting a modern expansion, and it’ll be “the first-ever to debut with a simultaneously coordinated global launch.” This means fans around the world embark on the same adventure together! Players can expect additional product releases throughout the year, too.
Pokémon Red & Pokémon Blue Game Music Collection + Game Boy Jukebox: The all-new “jukebox,” modeled after Nintendo’s original Game Boy handheld, takes listeners on a serene, ambient journey through the Kanto they know and love. With almost 50 Hit Clips-like cartridges, players can pop in their favorites to hear familiar melodies and sound effects from the original Pokémon video games. Find the charming, nostalgic device at The Pokémon Center today, though the website currently says fans should “check back later.” Keep your eyes peeled, collectors!
