"Pokémon Sun and Moon" have recently launched on the Nintendo 3DS and have been widely praised as some of the best games in the franchise. However, a brand new version of these titles may be released next year, and it is going to be for the Nintendo Switch console instead of the 3DS.
According to Eurogamer, an unnamed sourced from Nintendo and Game Freak allegedly confirmed a Nintendo Switch port of "Pokémon Sun and Moon" has indeed been in development. This game currently has the working title of "Pokémon Stars."
The game is being compared to the likes of "Pokémon Yellow" and "Pokémon Crystal." The former was the third game following the launch of "Pokémon Red and Blue" while the latter was the third version after the launch of "Pokémon Gold and Silver." These third entries were often similar to the previous two versions but always featured graphical improvements, new features, and refinements.
"Pokémon Stars" is stated to feature the same map, features, and characters from "Pokémon Sun and Moon" but may have higher resolution graphics. Along with improved visuals are a few new exclusive Pokémon and in-game features that would take advantage of the Nintendo Switch's capabilities.
The game is stated to be compatible with trading with the 3DS titles like "Pokémon Sun and Moon" and possibly "Pokémon X and Y." This will not be done through direct trading but through the Pokémon Bank.
It is noted that this will be the first main game in the franchise to release on consoles. All of the previous main entries released solely on handheld games and only spin-offs like "Pokémon Stadium" released on consoles.
According to the report, fans may have already glimpsed the Nintendo Switch port in the February reveal trailer of "Pokémon Sun and Moon." The shot of the developers working on the Pokémon Pikipek is reportedly for the Nintendo Switch version. It is also stated that development on the Switch port was momentarily halted to polish "Pokémon Sun and Moon" in time for their release on the 3DS.
If the game is indeed going to launch the report states it will release by Fall 2017.
Nintendo and Game Freak have yet to comment about this possible Nintendo Switch port.
