Legends before release • Eurogamer.net

Streamers are already streaming Pokémon Arceus: Legends ahead of its release date this week.

The notoriously secretive Pokémon Company has been notably quiet about the upcoming game, with no access to hands-on previews and information controlled by limited trailers.

Yet the game was still leaked ahead of release, with the internet already full of spoilers – we won’t reveal any here.

It’s unclear how streamers got their hands on the game, whether through official boxed copies or other digital data leaks.

Still, as of this writing, at least 15 streamers on Twitch around the world are playing the game with collectively over 800 viewers. If you’re looking to avoid spoilers, be aware of Pokémon content on Twitch.

Eurogamer has asked Twitch for comment, although it hasn’t publicly commented on the streaming game ahead of its launch.

There’s also an argument that the leaks could lead to an increase in pre-orders. Twitter user DarkDetective suggests that there has been a 21% increase in pre-orders at Japanese retail chain COMG! within a day since the leaks.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus in pre-order at the Japanese distribution chain COMG! rose 21% in a single Sunday from 486 to 589 units, following leaks.

COMG! isn’t representative of the entire market, but 103 new pre-orders in one day is the most extreme move I’ve seen here. pic.twitter.com/5oMwGpLs3v

— DarkDetective (@DarkDetectiveNL) January 23, 2022

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The leaks seem to pique fan interest ahead of release in the absence of official information from Nintendo.

Pokémon games are often a major target for leaks, with last year’s Diamond and Pearl remakes and, previously, Sword and Shield leaking ahead of release.

Two Sword and Shield leakers were forced to pay $150,000 each in damages.

Pokémon Arceus: Legends will officially release on January 28. Check out our thoughts on the latest gameplay trailer here.