New job ads from Pokémon developer Game Freak are causing speculation that a Switch entry is in our future.
There is reason for such conjecture. Last fall, a report appeared that Pokémon was coming to the Switch as Pokémon Star.
This recent character modeler wanted ad is for a “new title.” Based in Tokyo, the job lasts up to May 2018. Game Freak is looking for those with experience using Maya and making characters for Wii U and PS Vita games. Job responsibilities include making “exaggerated toon style people, monsters, and item models.” Hrm... Sounds higher spec than just another 3DS title.
According to the listing, this is a “consumer game,” and the listing does not specify hardware. But since it does say “consumer game,” we know this is not a smartphone title.
Game Freak is also hiring a 3D CG designer, with the listing saying, “Your chance to get involved with developing a RPG that’s popular worldwide.” Again, Game Freak is looking for someone with Maya experience and the same “exaggerated toon style people, monsters, and item models” are listing under the ad’s work description. Likewise, this gig ends in May 2018.
Remember, Game Freak does make more than Pokémon, so this could be something else entirely. Japanese game sites Hachima, My Game News Flash and Pokemon Matome, however, point to speculation that these listings are connected to Sun and Moon Switch versions. However, Nintendo hasn’t confirmed anything of the sort, and Kotaku reached out to the game maker prior to publication, but has yet to hear back.
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