Pokémon Red Fire and Green Leaf are heading to Nintendo Switch, available digitally – not as part of a Nintendo Switch Online subscription – starting February 27th. The release date coincides with Pokémon Day, a fitting tribute to the franchise’s enduring popularity.
A special physical edition will also be available, though it will be exclusive to Japan.
Details on the Physical Edition of Pokémon Red Fire and Green Leaf for Switch
It’s essential to note that the “physical edition” comes with a caveat: the games, Pokémon Red Fire and Green Leaf, are included as download codes. This means the core experience remains digital. The appeal of this edition lies in the collectible items included.
The package will feature reproductions of the original Game Boy Advance (GBA) packaging for Pokémon Red Fire and Green Leaf, alongside a box containing three glass Poké Balls featuring Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle – the three starter Pokémon players can choose from.
When the three Poké Balls are placed in a display setting, they illuminate in green, red, and blue respectively. Photos demonstrate the visual appeal of the set, which is likely to be highly sought after by fans.
Beyond the challenge of acquiring them from Japan, the price point is significant: they will cost 19,800 Yen, approximately €108 at the current exchange rate. Resale platforms like eBay are expected to see substantial markups. The release highlights the continued demand for nostalgic gaming experiences and collectible merchandise.