Pokémon Firered Leafgreen Return to Switch Systems Ahead of Pokémon Day
The long-awaited rereleases of pokémon firered leafgreen are coming back to modern systems as digital-only downloads, timed for Pokémon Day and rolling out the same day as a special presentation. The move brings the 2004 remakes of the original series back to current consoles and makes Kanto’s original 151 available again for both returning fans and newcomers.
pokémon firered leafgreen: what players will get
These Switch versions recreate the 2004 Game Boy Advance remakes of the earliest titles, preserving classic turn-based gameplay and the original soundtrack while retaining the era’s gameplay updates. Players will be able to encounter the original 151 Pokémon, choose their player character’s gender, and experience mechanics introduced during the Game Boy Advance era such as abilities, natures, weather conditions and held items. The rereleases also add modern convenience for local multiplayer, letting friends link up without the need for legacy hardware.
Release timing, pricing and availability
The digital releases are scheduled to be available on Feb. 27, coinciding with Pokémon Day and following a special presentation that morning set to air at 9 a. m. ET. Each title will carry a suggested retail price of $19. 99 (USD). The games will be sold as download-only titles, though a limited physical presence at select retailers is planned for launch week.
Language options, platform support and practical notes
Each language version is separate in these rereleases: English, French and Spanish editions will be offered, and there are no in-game language-switching options—buyers should confirm the language version before purchase. The rereleases are playable on current consoles and also noted as compatible with the next-generation console in the same family. Local co-op features are supported but will require additional compatible systems and games for multiplayer functionality.
Why this matters now
Bringing these remakes back to modern systems revives an accessible way to experience one of the franchise’s foundational regions without legacy hardware. At the listed price point and with digital distribution, the rereleases lower the barrier for new players to discover early entries and for long-time fans to revisit familiar characters and locations in their original design. The timing—released on Pokémon Day and made available immediately after a morning presentation—aims to capitalize on fan attention and anniversary celebrations.
Next steps and caveats
Players interested in these rereleases should watch the scheduled presentation at 9 a. m. ET on Feb. 27 for related announcements and expect the digital storefront listings to go live after the presentation concludes. Details shared ahead of launch note that language choices are fixed per version and that some multiplayer features will require additional hardware or game copies. Recent updates indicate this plan is set for rollout on the announced date; details may evolve as launch approaches.
