Why millions of S-E Asian fans are convinced the next Pokemon game is set in their backyard

Fans speculate that the next Pokémon game may be set in South-east Asia, spotting clues in the recent trailer. Read more at straitstimes.com.

JAKARTA – A trailer for the next mainline Pokemon games, released on Feb 27, has ignited speculation across South-east Asia that the franchise’s next adventure could be set in the region – and fans here are convinced they have spotted the clues to prove it.

The reveal trailer for Pokemon Winds and Pokemon Waves, dropped by Japanese developer Game Freak, showed sweeping tropical landscapes: terraced rice fields, coastal villages, mangroves and islands surrounded by blue seas.

The Pokemon Company has not commented on the regional inspiration behind the games, which are not due for release until 2027.

But that has not stopped fans in Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines scanning every frame, comparing maps and trying to turn speculation into certainty.

A question has since been raised, dominating gaming forums, Reddit threads and X timelines: Could this be home?

Of the many scenes in the 3½-minute trailer, one of the most-talked-about shots is a sweep across what appears to be terraced rice fields, which many fans have likened to those found across the region.