The wait is over - Pokémon Legends: Z-A finally has a release date. An upcoming Pokémon Presents promises even more surprises for fans.
Pokémon fans, mark your calendars — Pokémon Legends: Z-A is launching worldwide on October 16, 2025. The game was officially announced on May 28 and will release on both the Nintendo Switch and the new Nintendo Switch 2.
Dual Release For Switch And Switch 2
Alongside the standard Switch version, Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will feature improved graphics and smoother performance.
If you already own the Switch version, you can upgrade via an Upgrade Pack — no matter if it's digital or physical. The Switch 2 Edition can also be played on a regular Switch, though without the enhanced features.
Welcome Back To Lumiose City
Let's refresh what we know about the game!
Set entirely in a reimagined Lumiose City, Z-A follows a futuristic urban redevelopment plan led by Quasartico Inc., aiming to create a shared space for humans and Pokémon. The city now includes lush greenery and high-tech areas, plus wild zones where players can battle and catch Pokémon freely.
Updated Battle System
Unlike previous mainline games that relied on turn-based mechanics, trainers and Pokémon can now move freely in battle, issuing commands on the fly.
Moves will have varying ranges, areas of effect, and activation times, adding a layer of strategy that demands positioning, timing, and quick decision-making. You'll need to consider when to dodge, switch Pokémon, or strike. This system marks a major evolution in the series, and may serve as a testbed for future mainline titles.
Mega Evolution Returns
After a hiatus in recent titles, Mega Evolutions make a triumphant return in Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
Given the game's setting in Kalos, the birthplace of Mega Evolution, and the central role of the Legendary Pokémon Zygarde, there's speculation about new Mega forms for Xerneas, Yveltal, and even Zygarde itself.
Preorders And Bonus Figurine
Preorders open June 5 on the Nintendo eShop. For those willing to wait until June 11, the My Nintendo Store offers a bonus: an exclusive starter Pokémon figurine featuring Chikorita, Totodile, and Tepig. Additional bundles like the Mega Evolution and Champion’s Choice editions will offer more collectibles.
More Pokemon News Coming Soon
A Pokémon Presents livestream is scheduled for July 22, 2025, at 6 AM PST. While details remain under wraps, it's anticipated that the event will delve deeper into Pokémon Legends: Z-A and potentially unveil information about other upcoming titles in the Pokémon universe.