By Sagar V. Mankar 
On October 12-13, 2024, Game Freak, the developer of Pokémon, experienced a significant cyberattack that led to a massive data leak. Approximately 1TB of sensitive data, including codenames for the upcoming 10th generation Pokémon games and the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, was exposed. Game Freak stated that the unauthorized server access occurred in August 2024, compromising personal information for 2,606 employees, both current and former. While Game Freak had secured the servers after discovering the breach, the damage had already been done, with a third party retaining and later publicizing a large amount of confidential information.
Interestingly, Game Freak delayed releasing a statement about the breach. Although a response was prepared for October 10, it wasn’t issued until October 13, after the leak had already circulated widely. CEO Satoshi Tajiri issued a formal apology to affected individuals, reassuring them that the vulnerability had been addressed and the system fortified against future breaches.
What Information Was Compromised in the Game Freak Hack?
Among the leaked data were various project codenames, collaborations, source code, pokemon designs, game music, art, and internal discussions. Here’s what we know so far.
1. Nintendo’s Next-Gen Console Codename
The leak disclosed “Ounce” as the codename for Nintendo’s anticipated console, which is rumored to be the “Switch 2.” This speculation arises from leaked data indicating that a new Pokemon game is in development for a device codenamed Ounce.
This aligns perfectly with the information Sega leaker Midori mentioned earlier this year regarding the “Ounce” codename. At that time, it was conjectured that the codename might relate to the console’s weight, suggesting that the new Nintendo console would remain comparatively light despite substantial enhancements over the current Switch models.
2. 10th Generation Pokémon Game Codenames
The codename “Gaia” reportedly refers to the main 10th generation Pokémon game in development.
Two separate game versions are included in the leak with the codenames “K” and “N,” suggesting a dual release planned for both the current Switch and its successor.
3. New Pokémon Game “Synapse”
The leak mentions a collaborative Pokémon game, tentatively titled “Synapse,” reportedly being co-developed with ILCA, known for its work on Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl.
According to speculation, “Synapse” could be an online multiplayer game or something akin to Nintendo’s popular shooter game, Splatoon.
4. Upcoming Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Although Legends: Z-A is set to release in 2025, leaks indicate it might have initially been scheduled for a late 2024 release.
The leaker mentioned having played a beta version of the game featuring an almost complete main story.
They revealed some key details about the game but claimed they would not spoil much or share the source code they allegedly acquired from the breach.
5. Source Code for Classic Pokémon DS Games
Leaked data contain source codes for beloved titles like Pokémon HeartGold, SoulSilver, Black 2, and White 2.
6. Internal Documents and Concept Art
Beyond game development, the leaked information provided a rare glimpse into Game Freak’s creative processes.
Fans discovered unused Pokémon designs, game music, art, and internal discussions. These materials offer a fascinating look into concepts that were ultimately left out of the final games.
7. Live-Action Pokémon Show with Netflix
The breach also contained details about a possible live-action Pokémon show being developed by Netflix and scheduled for future release.
8. Unreleased Detective Pikachu Movie Sequel
In addition to the game, plot details surfaced regarding a movie sequel to the 2019 Detective Pikachu movie, tentatively titled The Great Detective Pikachu. The film, reportedly directed by Jordan Vogt-Roberts, was initially slated for release in 2024. It remains unclear if it is still in production or shelved.
The information also includes concepts for a possible trilogy of live-action Pokémon movies under the codename “Game Boy.”
9. Unusual Scrapped Pokémon Lore
One unexpected detail in the data was a scrapped storyline involving a romantic relationship between a human character and the Pokémon Typhlosion. This unusual plot was reportedly abandoned, likely due to its unusual nature and potential to clash with the series’ family-friendly tone.
Final Word
This breach is one of the largest in recent years, following other high-profile gaming data leaks involving companies like CD Projekt Red, Rockstar Games, and Insomniac Games. It recalls Nintendo’s 2020 “Gigaleak,” which revealed significant development information, canceled projects, and unusual character references. Although Nintendo has faced previous leaks, they typically involve previews of games nearing release, such as Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, which leaked months before their official launch in 2022.
Currently, Pokémon seems to be taking a break from new console releases in 2024, with only a mobile spin-off of the Pokémon Trading Card Game expected on smartphones later this month.