

**Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen Arriving on Switch: A Mixed Response from Fans**
The recent revelation that Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen, the cherished Game Boy Advance revamps of the original Pokémon titles, are set to debut on the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 on February 27, 2026, has generated a blend of enthusiasm and dissatisfaction among fans. Predictions surrounding this development were validated by notable Pokémon informant Khu, and the games will be up for download shortly after a special Pokémon Direct planned for the same day.
This announcement aligns with the 30th anniversary festivities of the Pokémon franchise, prompting many to think that more than mere ports of classic games would be unveiled. The Direct is highly awaited as it promises the initial sneak peek of new Generation X Pokémon and the mainline game featuring them.
Nevertheless, the choice to sell these two 22-year-old remakes as independent downloads, rather than incorporating them into the Nintendo Online subscription service, has attracted criticism. Fans anticipated that, due to the significance of the franchise’s milestone anniversary, Nintendo might provide these titles for free or as part of a celebratory package. Instead, each game will be available for $20, a move perceived by some as a cash grab that disregards the nostalgic essence the anniversary should honor.
As a reference point, Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen achieved combined sales of 11.82 million copies within their first four years, raking in over $400 million in revenue. Considering this established popularity, numerous fans argue that offering these remakes for free would not only pay homage to the franchise’s heritage but also foster goodwill among the player base ahead of the new game’s release in the winter.
Adding to fan discontent is the fact that the updated ports will not feature enhanced online capabilities, which many were hopeful would elevate the experience further. The sentiment among diverse audiences is a blend of what appears to be both a squandered chance for celebration and an acknowledgment of the financial factors at play in such decisions at Nintendo.
As Pokémon Day draws near, anticipation remains elevated for the prospective content of the Direct, yet a lingering discontent persists regarding the pricing approach for these classic titles. Time will clarify the wider ramifications of this choice, particularly as players gear up to embark on the latest Pokémon journey alongside a nostalgic trek through Kanto with FireRed and LeafGreen.