Latest speculations pointing out that "Pokémon GO" is on track for a 2016 release spells bad news for some hardcore fans of the franchise as this may mean that the much-awaited "Pokémon Z" will not be released anytime soon.

According to MasterHerald, the latest leaks on the upcoming "Pokémon GO" point to its supposed 2016 release being closer to being confirmed. Recently, video footage showing a gameplay trailer for the upcoming augmented reality game made the rounds online. While the video is not an official release from developer Niantic, observers say that the footage seems genuine as it was reportedly taken from Niantic CEO John Hanke's presentation at a recent SXSW conference.

If Nintendo and Niantic really plan a 2016 release for "Pokémon GO," it means that publisher Nintendo will be focusing on the game's upcoming roll-out. While this is welcome news for those waiting for the first-ever AR title in the franchise, some hardcore fans may take the news badly as this means that another much-awaited game, "Pokémon Z," will be taking a backseat.

It has been rumored that "Pokémon Z" will be released this year. However, speculations mostly come from fans' wishlists rather than leaks. Even Game Freak, developer of "Pokémon X and Y," is silent on the issue. This means that either the franchise already gave way to "Pokémon GO," or Game Freak is focusing on "Pokémon Z" and plans to surprise fans with a much-awaited announcement.

"Pokémon Z" is the much-awaited sequel to the main installments in the "Pokémon" franchise, "Pokémon X and Y," which were released way back in 2013.

Meanwhile, aside from "Pokémon GO," another anticipated game for this year are the recently unveiled "Pokémon Sun and Moon."