Pokemon Sword and Shield sparks outrage as creatures disappear from new game

'This was a very difficult decision for me'

The new Pokémon games, Sword and Shield, have sparked outrage after it became clear that creatures are to start disappearing.

Several beloved Pokémon will not be available in the new game, upsetting fans. The Switch game is one of the most awaited Pokémon games ever, and marks the first time the series will be available on a console rather than a handheld.

But the news meant that as well as suggesting that some types of Pokémon will not be available to be caught, and that the Pokedex will be complete, it also means that a feature that allows players to bring their old Pokémon to new games will not be available.

That provoked outrage among fans who accused developers Gamefreak of being lazy in not bringing all Pokémon to the new game, and having disappointed them months before the titles actually arrive in November.

Now developers have sought to calm that anger by making clear that the disappearing Pokémon will not be removed forever, and that the decision had been after intense deliberation.

"Thank you to all of our fans for caring so deeply about Pokémon," said Sword and Shield producer Junichi Masuda​ in a statement published on the Pokemon website. "Recently, I shared the news that some Pokémon cannot be transferred to Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield. I've read all your comments and appreciate your love and passion for Pokémon.

"Just like all of you, we are passionate about Pokémon and each and every one of them is very important to us. After so many years of developing the Pokémon video games, this was a very difficult decision for me. I'd like to make one thing clear: even if a specific Pokémon is not available in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, that does not mean it will not appear in future games.

"The world of Pokémon continues to evolve. The Galar region offers new Pokémon to encounter, Trainers to battle, and adventures to embark on. We are pouring our hearts into these games, and we hope you will look forward to joining us on this new journey."

The statement gave no details about which Pokémon would be unavailable in the game, or how many creatures would be affected by the change.