'Pokémon Rainbow' release date news: New 3DS title taking the place of 'Pokémon Z'?

One of the much-anticipated games among fans of the "Pokémon" franchise is the follow-up to "Pokémon X and Y." However, it seems that the so-called "Pokémon Z" is still far in the horizon as another speculated game for the 3DS will supposedly be released this year.

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According to My Nintendo News, a new game is already being developed by Nintendo in time for the holidays. The industry follower said that the news came from what appeared to be a budget and scheduling overview for the year. In the post, the so-called "Pokémon Rainbow" is described as the 20th anniversary offering of Nintendo for the "Pokémon" franchise.

The original post from NintenGen has already been taken down, which is coincidental. However, observers like The Bitbag already took note of the post and added that aside from the overview, the supposed announcement said that "Pokémon Rainbow" may not be the final release title for the game and only serves as a placeholder for the roll-out period.

The industry follower also stated that even if it is a placeholder or not, the "Pokémon Rainbow" name may already be a hint at what the game will be. Reportedly, the title itself was rumored way back in 2013 and surfaced now just in time for the 20th anniversary. "Pokémon Rainbow" is said to be an amalgam of past "Pokémon" games starting from the original "Red" and "Blue," hence the "Rainbow" tag.

Meanwhile, MNR Daily said that the game may only be a placeholder for confirmed title launches, and "Pokémon Rainbow" may translate to the upcoming "Pokémon Sun" and "Pokemon Moon," which are scheduled to release for the Nintendo 3DS in the holidays.

Whether the "Pokémon Rainbow" title is an altogether new game or not, it will join another anticipated title to be released this year, as speculations also suggest that the augmented reality game "Pokémon GO" will also launch before 2016 ends.