Pokémon fans head over heels in love with leaked starter 'mon

Yet another major studio has been subject to a cyber attack.

These attacks can be incredibly damaging, so it’s heartbreaking to see that Game Freak is the latest victim in a string of high-profile cases.

You may recall that in 2022, Rockstar Games was targeted, leading to an hours’ worth of GTA VI early development footage leaking online alongside screenshots and source code.

Last year, Insomniac Games then fell victim, with the studio’s upcoming release slate emerging online alongside other confidential information.

Now, Game Freak has been attacked ahead of the studio’s launch of Pokémon Legends Z-A next year.

A fully playable PC build of the game is now reportedly in possession of the leaker, while employee details and cancelled ‘mon lore has surfaced online.

Perhaps unexpectedly, information has also surfaced regarding some of Game Freak’s older titles - and it’s a cancelled starter ‘mon that’s got Pokémon fans talking.

Take a look at the trailer for Pokémon Legends Z-A below.

A piece of concept art has leaked featuring Ruby and Sapphire’s starter ‘mon, and while two of the featured creatures are familiar, one certainly isn’t.

Let’s start off with the familiar Torchic and Treecko.

Torchic seemingly began life with two large ears, while Treecko had a yellow belly instead of pink.

In Mudkip’s place though is a white and blue rabbit which features what I can only describe as an inflatable rubber ring-style feature around its waist.

It’s referred to in the leak as Wallabit, Watabbit, and Wallaby.

To respect the studio, we won’t be featuring any of the leaked artwork here for your viewing.

Clearly, Game Freak decided to move on from this design but fans are wishing they hadn’t with the cancelled ‘mon receiving an outpouring of love online.

In fact, there’s already fan art.

“Is it bad I prefer the water to Mudkip?” one fan asked.

“They should bring that bunny to life. He’s got a cool look,” added another.

I quite agree - he’s very cute. It’s unlikely we’ll see Game Freak revive this design but never say never.