'Pokémon Z' release date 2016: rumors point to delays; device may launch 2017
Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of the sequel to the "Pokémon X and Y" game. However, the so-called "Pokémon Z" may not be coming soon and its expected launch this year may even get delayed, with the game said to be rolling out next year instead.
According to BreatheCast, there are still no confirmed details about the upcoming sequel, so it is highly unlikely that "Pokémon Z" will have a 2016 release. Indeed, in the franchise, "Pokémon GO" seems to be getting updates, and the upcoming "Pokémon Sun and Moon" is also slowly appearing through leaks and teasers online.
In addition, it is still unclear if "Pokémon Z" is a separate title or if Nintendo plans to shift its next-gen Pokémon to the upcoming "Pokémon Sun and Moon" title. Previously, speculations suggested that the "Sun and Moon" title will be the proper sequel to the "Pokémon X and Y" game, and based on recent "leaks" like new Pokémon additions and a seventh-generation lineup, the rumor seems highly plausible.
"Pokémon Sun and Moon" seems to have a steady development. Recent leaks have already established that the new title will most likely return to a multi-region gameplay, with at least three locations coming from real-world areas in Japan, New York, and France. There are also speculations that the "Sun and Moon" title will introduce the seventh-generation lineup of Pokémon, complete with new starters and Legendary ones.
As leaks and supposed gameplay details circulate about "Pokémon Sun and Moon" and another anticipated franchise title, "Pokémon GO," the previously rumored "Pokémon Z" titles gets more uncertain. However, should Nintendo push through with the project, a 2017 release is more likely. The company may have intended the delay to happen, and make "Pokémon Z" one of the titles for its upcoming Nintendo NX console, which is confirmed for a 2017 launch.