Pokemon Gold and Silver Coming to Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console

Today during the Pokémon Direct we got a torrent of unexpected news -- unexpected, but pleasant. To conclude the presentation, The Pokémon Company revealed that Pokémon Gold and Pokémon Silver will be making their return on the Nintendo 3DS virtual console. Take a glance at the announcement trailer above.

"These major Pokémon releases take you on a journey through the Johto region, and for the first time, show your Pokémon appearing in glorious color on your Game Boy Color. All kinds of creative aspects are to be found in Pokémon Gold and Pokémon Silver, including genders and items that Pokémon can hold to improve their skills."

Pokémon Gold and Silver will release on the Nintendo 3DS virtual console on September 22, which is the same day that Pokken Tournament Deluxe will be releasing for the Nintendo Switch. If you missed the reveal trailer for Pokken Tourmanent and all of the exciting details (including 5 new Pokémon fighters) check it out right here.

As for Gold and Silver, it's pretty crazy that it took six years for these games to arrive on the Nintendo 3DS virtual console, but you can expect all of the same modern conveniences afforded to Blue, Red, and Yellow when they released. Mainly, you'll be able to trade and battle your friends wirelessly, and the game will be completely compatible with Pokémon Bank. The Pokémon Company also confirmed that Gold and Silver will be compatible with the Time Capsule function:

"In addition, these titles will also be compatible with the Time Capsule function, which allows players to Link Trade Pokémon between Pokémon Gold or Pokémon Silver and Pokémon Red, Pokémon Blue, or Pokémon Yellow: Special Pikachu Edition in Pokémon Centers within the games, as long as the species of Pokémon appeared in Pokémon Red, Pokémon Blue, or Pokémon Yellow: Special Pikachu Edition as well. Have the Pokémon that worked so hard for you in Pokémon Red, Pokémon Blue, and Pokémon Yellow: Special Pikachu Edition keep battling by your side in Pokémon Gold and Pokémon Silver."

By the way, we stumbled upon a clue that might indicate that Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon may be coming to Nintendo Switch. See the evidence for yourself here.