Pokémon Sleep's development is transitioning from Select Button to Pokémon Works. This newly established Pokémon subsidiary will now oversee the game's ongoing development and future updates. Read on for details.

Pokémon Sleep Development Transitioned to New Pokémon Subsidiary

From Select Button to Pokémon Works

Following the March 2024 launch of Pokémon Works, a new Pokémon Company subsidiary, speculation arose regarding its future endeavors. Now, eight months later, it's been confirmed that Pokémon Works will assume responsibility for Pokémon Sleep's development and updates from Select Button.

An in-app announcement (machine-translated) revealed the shift in development and operational control from Select Button Co., Ltd. to Pokémon Works. The announcement appeared initially in the Japanese version of the app and its global impact remains uncertain, as it's not yet reflected in the app's international news section.

Pokémon Works' current projects remain largely undisclosed. However, a statement from Representative Director Takuya Iwasaki highlights its origins as a collaborative venture between The Pokémon Company and Iruka Co., Ltd.

Interestingly, Pokémon Works shares a Tokyo location with ILCA, the studio behind the 2021 Pokémon remakes, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, and a co-developer of Pokémon HOME. Iwasaki also confirmed Pokémon Works' contribution to Pokémon HOME's development.

While their direct Pokémon involvement has been limited, the company aims to "create an experience that makes Pokémon more real... so that everyone can enjoy meeting and adventuring with Pokémon." The specific application of this vision to Pokémon Sleep remains to be seen.