Nintendo has announced that Pokémon FireRed Version and Pokémon LeafGreen Version will launch on Nintendo Switch systems on February 28, 2026, according to Nintendo. The digital-only releases mark the return of these beloved Game Boy Advance titles after more than two decades, arriving just in time to celebrate the franchise's 30th anniversary.
The 2004 remakes of the original Pokémon Red and Green games will be available individually through the Nintendo eShop for $19.99 each. Both versions are playable on Nintendo Switch and the newly released Nintendo Switch 2 system, bringing the classic Kanto region experience to modern hardware while preserving the original gameplay that defined a generation.
What's Included in the Switch Versions
These Switch releases contain all the content from the original Game Boy Advance versions, including the complete roster of 151 original Pokémon species. Players will encounter iconic characters like Brock, Misty, Professor Oak, and Giovanni throughout their journey across the Kanto region.
The games retain the Generation III enhancements that made them stand out in 2004. Here's the thing: these weren't just simple ports of the 1996 originals. The remakes introduced abilities, natures, weather conditions, held items, and the option to select your player character's gender. The Sevii Islands, an entirely new post-game area exclusive to these versions, also returns in the Switch release.
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Because these versions replicate the original releases, each language version is separate with no in-game language options. Verify your preferred language before purchasing.
Choose your starter in classic Kanto
Modern Connectivity Features
While the core gameplay remains faithful to the 2004 versions, Nintendo has adapted the connectivity features for modern play. The original Game Link Cable requirement has been replaced with wireless local co-op functionality, allowing players to trade and battle with friends without additional hardware.
What most players miss is the Pokémon Home integration. The Switch versions support transfers to the cloud-based storage service, letting trainers move their caught Pokémon to modern games. The games also work with the GameChat feature, adding voice communication during multiplayer sessions.
Early Sales Performance
The games have already dominated the Nintendo eShop charts before their official release. Following the announcement on February 20, preorders for both titles quickly climbed to the top positions across multiple regions, according to Nintendo Life.
Pokémon FireRed has claimed the number one spot in the US, UK, Japan, and Australia eShop charts, with Pokémon LeafGreen following in second place. The Charizard-featuring FireRed version appears to be the more popular choice among returning trainers, mirroring the original release's sales patterns.
Virtual Console Remains Off the Table
Despite the excitement surrounding these releases, Nintendo has clarified that this doesn't signal a broader return to individual retro game sales. According to an official FAQ, the company considers this a special case tied to Pokémon's 30th anniversary celebration.
Nintendo stated it has no plans to revive Virtual Console-style offerings and remains focused on providing classic games through the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service. The company emphasized that retro releases will continue primarily through the Switch Online library rather than individual eShop purchases.
This decision has sparked debate within the gaming community about game preservation and access to Nintendo's extensive back catalog. Pro tip: if you're hoping to play other classic Nintendo titles, a Switch Online subscription remains your best option for accessing retro games legally.
Pricing and Availability Details
Both Pokémon FireRed Version and Pokémon LeafGreen Version are priced at $19.99 (£16.99) each on the Nintendo eShop. The games are available in English, Spanish, and French language versions, with each language sold as a separate download.
Select retailers will also offer the games during launch week, though specific participating stores haven't been announced. The digital-only nature of these releases means no physical cartridges will be produced, keeping distribution entirely through Nintendo's online storefront.
Available now on Nintendo eShop
A Return to Kanto
Returning to Kanto means challenging the region's eight Gym Leaders, dismantling Team Rocket's criminal operations, and ultimately facing the Elite Four and Champion. The journey begins with the classic choice between Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle as your starter Pokémon, setting the stage for an adventure that has captivated players for three decades.
The games feature the classic turn-based battle system that defined early Pokémon titles, without the quality-of-life improvements found in modern entries. Random encounters occur in tall grass, battles require strategic type matchups, and progression follows a linear path through the region's cities and routes.
For players accustomed to recent Pokémon games with open-world exploration and visible wild Pokémon, the FireRed and LeafGreen experience will feel distinctly different. The structured progression and traditional gameplay mechanics represent a snapshot of how the franchise operated during the Game Boy Advance era.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen release on Nintendo Switch?
Both games launch on February 28, 2026, exclusively through the Nintendo eShop as digital downloads.
How much do the games cost?
Each game is priced at $19.99 in the US and £16.99 in the UK. You must purchase each version separately.
Can I trade Pokémon with friends?
Yes, the Switch versions support local wireless trading and battling without requiring Game Link Cables. Both players need their own copy of the game.
Do the games work with Pokémon Home?
Yes, both FireRed and LeafGreen support transfers to Pokémon Home, allowing you to move caught Pokémon to modern games.
Will these games come to Nintendo Switch Online?
No, Nintendo has stated these are special anniversary releases and the company remains focused on offering retro games through the Switch Online subscription service rather than expanding individual eShop releases.
