Pokemon hack confirmed by developer Game Freak

Pokémon maker Game Freak has confirmed that it has fallen victim to a data breach after information appeared online last weekend.

The company, which has been developing the exclusive video game series for Nintendo since 1996, said its servers were hacked in August this year.

A statement said 2,606 items containing the names and email addresses of current, former and contract employees were accessed.

The company did not comment on other information shared online, claiming to show details of unreleased and upcoming projects.

Game Freak said it would individually contact those affected where possible and strengthen security measures to prevent similar hacks in the future.

“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and concern caused to all involved,” the statement said.

Game Freak is working closely with Nintendo and Pokémon Company on the franchise, which is said to be one of the most valuable media properties in the world.

It is currently developing the upcoming one Pokémon Legends: ZAwhich will be released next year.

Last month, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company submitted a request legal action in Japan against the makers of Palword.

The game, from developer Pocketpair, was quickly nicknamed “Pokémon with guns” due to the characters’ similarity to Nintendo’s creatures.

They have accused the company of patent infringement, although the exact details of the claim have not been revealed.