Pokemon Legends Z-A is fast approaching, with the October release date now less than a month away. More exciting still, a recent Nintendo Direct has revealed that a new DLC called Mega Dimension is also on the cards, with a special pre-order bonus if you purchase it before February 28, 2026.
Based in the single-city setting of Lumiose, which set the scene for Pokemon X and Y, the upcoming RPG from The Pokemon Company will be breaking away from the classic turn-based battle formula to bring us real-time dodges and commands that will shake up how we take on Pokemon in the wild, as well as other trainers.
We've also steadily been learning more and more about the new game, such as the fact that it will excitingly see Mega Evolutions make a comeback for the first time in seven years - with trailers showing off the likes of Mega Hawlucha and Mega Victreebel. The April Nintendo Switch 2 Direct also confirmed the new adventure will be landing on the new-gen console as one of the many upcoming Switch 2 games (fear not if you don't yet have the latest hardware as it will also be also be among the upcoming Switch games).
With ore details dropping on Pokemon's official website, too, we've brought together all of the latest news and information. So, if you're looking for a recap or you're curious to learn more ahead of launch, read on below to find out everything that's been revealed about Pokemon Legends Z-A so far.
Pokemon Legends: Z-A release date confirmed
The Pokemon Company has confirmed that Pokemon Z-A Legends release date will be October 16, 2025.
The official release date came in a press release from Nintendo, which at least gives us a concrete time frame following the "late 2025" window that was revealed previously. There is also one confirmed DLC so far: Mega Dimension, which will also launch alongside the base game on the October 16 release date.
Pokemon Legends: Z-A platforms
Pokemon Legends: Z-A will launch on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025, with the Switch 2 version being an Enhanced Edition, according to the March 2025 Nintendo Direct.
It's worth noting that The Pokemon Company has used slightly confusing language across its social channels, stating that Z-A is coming to "Nintendo Switch systems." Following the reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2, a recent Nintendo Direct showcase confirmed that the upcoming Pokemon game will indeed be launching on past and current generations of its flagship console. Great news for anyone not looking to upgrade just yet!
Pokemon Legends: Z-A trailer
We got our first proper trailer for Pokemon Legends: Z-A during the 2025 Pokemon Day showcase on February 27. In the clip, we see scenes of Pokemon having fun throughout Lumiose City - which is currently undergoing redevelopment to be a home for both trainers and Pokemon alike.
We also see the designated "Wild Zones" that exist in the metropolis, marked by green gates. Of course, we also see some battles, critter catching, and world exploration. It's classic Pokemon here, and we are excited to see more trailers drop in the future!
You can watch the Pokemon Legends: Z-A trailer above.
Pokemon Legends: Z-A gameplay
Thanks to the Pokemon Legends: Z-A trailers, we've now gotten multiple looks at the expected gameplay for the upcoming adventure. This includes its setting, which will be entirely within Lumiose City. This means that you're likely going to be unable to explore the wider Kalos Region, but there's still plenty to do while in the city. Your trainer will be staying at Hotel Z, which will be your base of operations as you tackle all sorts of incidents as a member of Team MZ - who are said to act as protectors of the city.
During the day, you're free to explore "wild zones" , where you can catch and battle wild Pokemon. Then, when night falls, you'll have to battle other trainers as part of the new "Z-A Royale" system, which will allow you to make your way up through the ranks to progress the story.
The city is also filled with side-quests, including research objectives to complete for resident scientist Mable and detective quests to fulfill with the returning X and Y character Emma. The city is filled with customization options to such as Pokemon grooming and relaxation spots.
Perhaps the biggest difference in terms of gameplay that's been revealed so far though is in the way you battle. Rather than the classic turned-based formula the series is known for, Z-A will see us face up against trainers and Pokemon in real-time.
As we detailed in our Pokemon Legends Z-A Gamescom 2025 hands-on preview, the battles feel faster and more frantic as a result of this real-time switch, with easy controls that see you lock-on to an opponent, attack, and roll out of the way of incoming hits. There's also a cooldown system, so you can't just simply spam moves to earn your victory.
There are also new features to consider when battling, such as the precise timing for swapping out your Pokemon to make the most of their respective movesets. Taking note of the different lengths of time moves will take, and how big of impact a move will have on an area also come into play. Overall, it sounds as though combat will be more of a strategic affair with a real-time flow.
Nintendo also revealed that the title of the game actually references the new ranking system that's linked to the competitive battle zones. As trainers, we'll start out at rank Z and rise up to rank A, hence Z-A.
Pokemon Legends Z-A starters
The three Pokemon Legends Z-A starters are Chikorita, Tepig, and Totodile.
Chikorita is the grass-type starter that was first introduced in Generation II. It is also one of the first three starters in Pokemon of Johto seen during Pokemon Gold and Silver. This grass type is described as having a gentle personality who loves sunbathing. So, if you love cozy, cute things, it'll be the perfect starter for you. Chikorita also evolves into Bayleef starting at level 16, which then evolves into Meganium (aka the most adorable and dinosaur-coded Pokémon around) at level 32.
Totodile is the water-type starter, which was also introduced in Generation II and, like Chikorita, was a starter during Pokemon Gold and Silver. This Pokemon has a rough personality and a tendency to bite, so be on the lookout for your fingers if you choose this critter as your first partner. Totodile evolves into Croconaw at level 18, which then evolves into Feraligatr starting at level 30.
Finally, we have Tepig, the fire-type starter. Tepig was introduced during Generation V and was one of the starters available during Pokemon Black and White. Tepig loves finding food but has a habit of excitedly burning things when it's to worked up. Tepig evolves into Pignite at level 17, and then into Emboar starting at level 36.
Pokemon Legends: Z-A The Legendary Pokemon
Legendary Pokemon will also be among the Pokemon Legends: Z-A Pokedex for all of us to meet when the game releases later this year. The one we know for sure is heading our way is Zygarde.
Zygarde was first introduced during the sixth generation as a dual-type Dragon/Ground Legendary Pokémon and was a major player in the animated Pokemon the Series: XY.
According to the Pokemon website, "Zygarde is made up of a multitude of cell-like components, and it changes form depending on how many of these components have gathered together. Its brain is made up of the few existing Zygarde Cores, while the rest of its body is comprised of Zygarde Cells, which are far more plentiful. It seems to have taken a special interest in you... What could its connection to this story be?"
Expect Zygarde to be a massive part of the story of Pokemon Legends: Z-A. We may also see some possible connections to this legendary and the large corporation called Quasartico Inc. (that is re-developing Lumiose City). Stay tuned for updates!
Pokemon Legends: Z-A Mega Evolution explained
Pokemon Legends: Z-A Mega Evolution brings back a beloved feature first introduced in Pokemon X and Y that will boost your Pokemon's power and change their appearance. In Lumiose City, some Pokemon can go beyond normal evolution when they raise their levels in battle. Only a few Pokemon can Mega Evolve, and when they do, it temporarily unleashes the energy hidden within the Pokemon.
When a trainer has a high bond with their partner, a Key Stone (worn by the Trainer) will resonate with the Pokemon's "Mega Stone" - that is what allows the evolution to take place. Below is a list of some of the confirmed Pokemon who can use Mega Evolution in Pokemon Legends: Z-A.
- Mega Absol
- Mega Altaria
- Mega Ampharos
- Mega Charizard X
- Mega Charizard Y
- Mega Dragonite
- Mega Gardevoir
- Mega Hawlucha
- Mega Kangaskhan
- Mega Lucario
- Mega Sableye
- Mega Victreebel
The list above is expected to grow. And, in fact, according to leakers, 27 new Mega Evolutions could be added in the upcoming game. So far, in the series' history, we've had 48 Mega Evolutions. An additional 27 would bring the new total up to an impressive 75.
However, before you get too excited about this news, keep in mind that nothing has been officially confirmed just yet. We'll keep you posted as more news heads our way!
Can you pre-order Pokemon Legends: Z-A?
Yes! Pokemon Legends Z-A Pre-orders are live as of June 5, 2025. You can also currently wishlist the game on the Nintendo e-Shop now.
Fans can now pre-order both a digital and a physical copy of the game via the Nintendo e-Shop. Prices for the Switch version of the game are $59.99/£49.99, while the Switch 2 versions will cost you $69.99/£58.99. You'll also get a bonus item if you purchase the deal, which will be a "Pokemon Legends: Z-A Partner Pokemon Figurine", comprising the starters in the game.
You can also pre-order the Mega Dimension DLC right now, and if you buy it before February 28, 2026, you get the "Luxurious Poké Ball Set," according to the official Pokemon website, "which includes a variety of Poké Balls that are especially effective at catching certain kinds of Pokémon."
And, if you are a big collector and live in the UK, there are also Pokémon Legends: Z-A Edition Mega Evolution bundles up for grabs for both the original Switch and the Switch 2. This bundle comes with the game, Mega Charizard X and Mega Charizard Y figurines, and a pin set of the starters.
If you don't have a Switch 2 yet, you can also get a Pokemon Legends: Z-A bundle that includes the new game with the console for $499.99. Pre-orders for this bundle go live on July 23, 2025, in the UK. We are still waiting on US details, so stay tuned.
While you wait for the game to arrive, check out our list of the best games like Pokemon to play today.
If you're looking for something else to tuck into while you wait, be sure to check out our pick of the best Switch 2 games.
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