Pokémon prepares to transition away from turn-based combat

The Pokémon franchise is preparing for a major shift in its core gameplay mechanics with the upcoming tenth generation. The successors to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, titled Pokémon Viento and Pokémon Oleaje, are scheduled for release in 2027.

Kazumasa Iwao, director of Pokémon Champions, has indicated that Game Freak intends to experiment with the series' long-standing turn-based combat system. While the franchise has relied on strategic turn-based battles for three decades, Iwao stated that the company wants to challenge itself by evolving the system “little by little” to avoid alienating long-term fans.

The new titles will feature an open-world setting inspired by islands and oceans, focusing on unique ecosystems. While specific gameplay details remain under wraps, the move away from traditional turn-based combat represents one of the most significant transformations in the series' history.