There’s always a level of anticipation ahead of aPokémon Presents, even if we already know the primary purpose of the event in advance. In this case, The Pokémon Company is almost certainly dedicating the bulk of the event to showcasing the upcomingPokémon Legends: Z-A, which is set to release on both the original Switch and the Switch 2 on October 16.
However,a cryptic teaserfor the event posted by Pokémon’s official Japanese social media account has stirred up some speculation in the community.
A Remix, Perhaps?
The image (above) shows a Pikachu standing in front of what appears to be DJ decks. The post is captioned, “It looks like Pikachu is preparing something?” along with details of the Pokémon Presents on July 22.
In a Reddit thread byRyu_Reviewon the topic, the most popular prediction is a sequel to Hey You, Pikachu. This was a critically panned game for the Nintendo 64 that featured a primitive version of voice recognition software; one of only two games to utilise the N64’s voice recognition unit (VRU) accessory.
Technology has advanced a long way since “Hey You, Pikachu,” and a Nintendogs-style sequel that utilises the Switch 2’s microphone and employs full voice recognition software could be an interesting idea.
Another, more abstract, idea is that the image, which is mostly in black and white, could be using the decks to symbolise a ‘remix’, i.e., a remake. People are desperate for a remake of Generation 5, but this prediction feels too out there.
There are also several less exciting predictions, including the release of Pokémon’s music library on Nintendo Switch Online or the Nintendo app. The use of musical equipment is explicit, and teasers from The Pokémon Company tend to be more ‘on the nose’.
It could also be something completely new, like a mobile rhythm game, given the popularity of Pokémon Sleep and Pokémon TCG Pocket.
Only time will tell, but we’re guaranteed to at least see more of Pokémon Legends: Z-A at the upcoming Pokémon Presents, which airs July 22.
