OTTAWA — In a move that has sparked both nostalgia and debate across the Canadian gaming community, Nintendo has officially confirmed that Pokémon LeafGreen Version and Pokémon FireRed Version will launch on the Nintendo Switch and its upcoming successor on 27 February 2026.
The release is timed to coincide with Pokémon Day 2026, marking the 30th anniversary of the global franchise. While many fans expected these Game Boy Advance classics to join the Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) library, Nintendo has opted for a standalone digital-only release on the eShop.
Pricing and Availability
In Canada, the titles are expected to follow the confirmed U.S. pricing of $19.99, likely retailing for approximately $26.99 CAD each. Unlike previous retro releases bundled with subscription services, these versions must be purchased individually. Nintendo addressed this unconventional decision in a recent FAQ, stating they “thought it would be fun” to offer them as standalone digital titles to celebrate the three-decade milestone.
Key details for the Canadian launch include:
- Release Date: Friday, 27 February 2026.
- Launch Time: 9:00 a.m. EST / 6:00 a.m. PST (immediately following the Pokémon Presents broadcast).
- Platforms: Nintendo Switch and the “Switch 2.”
- Format: Digital download via Nintendo eShop.
New Features and Modern Integration
While these are direct ports of the 2004 remakes, they will include modern quality-of-life updates. The games will support multiple languages and feature technical enhancements for the Switch’s hardware. Additionally, select music tracks from LeafGreen and FireRed have already been added to the Nintendo Music app as of 20 February 2026, allowing fans to stream the iconic Kanto soundtrack ahead of the game’s arrival.
Fan Reaction: Praise and Concern
The announcement has received a polarized response from the Canadian “Poké-community.” While the stunning pixel art of the GBA era is widely considered superior to the 3D visuals of Let’s Go, Pikachu!, some players have expressed concern regarding Pokémon HOME compatibility. Without confirmed integration, trainers worry they will be unable to transfer their caught Pokémon to modern titles, potentially limiting the “catch ’em all” appeal of the Kanto Pokédex.
Despite the pricing controversy, the return to Pallet Town is expected to be one of the biggest digital launches of the year, as a new generation of Canadian gamers prepares to choose Bulbasaur for the very first time on modern hardware.