No, Pokémon Winds and Waves will not release on the original Nintendo Switch. Both games are announced exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2: you will need that console to play in 2027.

Why no Nintendo Switch version?

This is a first for a main series game. Pokémon Legends: Z-A, released in October 2025, still came in two editions, one for Nintendo Switch and an enhanced one for Switch 2. Pokémon Pokopia, released on March 5, 2026, was already reserved for the Switch 2, but it is a standalone game, not a main series installment.

What it changes for you

  • You will need a Nintendo Switch 2, released on June 5, 2025. A Switch, a Switch Lite or a Switch OLED will not be able to run the game.
  • Your Switch games remain playable. The Switch 2 plays the vast majority of original Switch games: Scarlet and Violet, Legends: Arceus or Sword and Shield will follow you.
  • So do your Pokémon. Pokémon HOME works on Switch 2. Its compatibility with Winds and Waves has not been announced yet, but all the main games released since Sword and Shield are linked to it or have been announced as such.
  • System transfer is planned by Nintendo to bring your data from the original Switch over to the Switch 2.

Should you buy a Switch 2 right now?

There is no rush for Winds and Waves, which won’t release before 2027. However, if you already want to enjoy Pokopia or the Switch 2 Edition of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the console already has plenty to keep a Trainer busy. Our Pokémon shopping guide presents the bundles and games available (in France).

Also keep an eye on announcements: Nintendo has often released consoles in the colors of the big Pokémon games, such as the Scarlet and Violet Switch OLED. Nothing has been announced for Winds and Waves to date.

Will Pokémon Winds and Waves be on Switch 1?

No. The game is announced exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2.

Will you be able to play Winds and Waves on a Switch Lite or a Switch OLED?

No: those are models of the original Nintendo Switch. Only the Switch 2 will be able to run the game.

Will Pokémon from Pokémon HOME be able to go into Winds and Waves?

That has not been announced yet. All the main games released since Sword and Shield are linked to Pokémon HOME, or announced as such, which raises hopes for compatibility.

Also read: the release date · getting ready for 2027