Nintendo has announced that Pokémon FireRed Version and Pokémon LeafGreen Version are coming to the Nintendo Switch family of systems, including the Nintendo Switch 2, for the first time in over 20 years. Scheduled to coincide with Pokémon Day on February 27, these releases allow both longtime fans and newcomers to revisit the Kanto region and experience the original 151 Pokémon in their classic settings.
The games are available digitally in English, French, and Spanish through the My Nintendo Store and Nintendo eShop, with a suggested retail price of $19.99 USD. Limited physical copies will also be available at select retailers during launch week.
Revisiting the Kanto Region
These Nintendo Switch versions are based on the 2004 Game Boy Advance remakes of Pokémon Red and Pokémon Green, originally released in Japan in 1996. Players can explore the familiar towns, routes, and landmarks of Kanto while encountering the original roster of Pokémon. The turn-based battle system and iconic soundtrack remain intact, providing a faithful recreation of the original adventure.
In addition to nostalgia, the games incorporate updates introduced in the Game Boy Advance era, including Pokémon abilities and natures, weather effects in battles, held items, and the ability to select the player character’s gender. These elements enhance strategy while keeping the gameplay close to its original form.
Updated Features for Nintendo Switch Players
One of the most notable updates for the Switch versions is the ability to link with friends locally without the use of the original Game Link Cable. This modernized connectivity allows players to trade Pokémon and battle with others nearby, making cooperative and competitive play more accessible. The games maintain the charm and simplicity of the original RPGs while taking advantage of the Switch’s current capabilities.
Familiar faces like Brock, Misty, Professor Oak, and Giovanni appear throughout the story, preserving the narrative experience that players remember from the original titles.
Availability and Pricing
Pokémon FireRed Version and Pokémon LeafGreen Version will be available on February 27 through digital stores including My Nintendo Store and Nintendo eShop in English, French, and Spanish. The recommended price for each title is $19.99 USD. Limited physical editions will be sold at select retailers during the release week. More information is available on Nintendo’s official website.
Make sure to check out our articles about top games to play in 2026:
Best Nintendo Switch Games for 2026
Best First-Person Shooters for 2026
Best PlayStation Indie Games for 2026
Best Multiplayer Games for 2026
Most Anticipated Games of 2026
Top Game Releases for January 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When are Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen releasing on Nintendo Switch?
Both titles are scheduled for release on February 27, coinciding with Pokémon Day.
What languages are supported in these Nintendo Switch releases?
The games are available in English, French, and Spanish.
Can players trade and battle locally in the Switch versions?
Yes, local co-op is available without the original Game Link Cable.
How much do the Nintendo Switch versions cost?
Each game is priced at $19.99 USD for digital purchases, with limited physical copies available at select retailers.
Will these versions include all 151 original Pokémon?
Yes, players can encounter all Pokémon from the original Kanto region games.
Which characters return in these remakes?
Key characters such as Brock, Misty, Professor Oak, and Giovanni appear in these versions, maintaining the story from the original games.
