Get ready to head back to Kalos, but not the way you remember it. The long-awaited Pokémon Legends: Z-A now has an official release date: October 16, 2025! You’ll be able to buy it on both the Nintendo Switch and the brand-new Nintendo Switch 2, with the next-gen version offering improved graphics and smoother frame rates.
On both the digital and physical version, you’ll also be able to upgrade to the Switch 2 edition with a special upgrade pack, which is a nice touch if you’re not ready to jump on new hardware just yet.
Mark your calendars as preorders go live on June 5 via the Nintendo eShop! The exact same day the Switch 2 releases!
Welcome Back to Lumiose City
The story of Pokémon Legends: Z-A takes place in Lumiose City, the central hub of the Kalos region first introduced in Pokémon X and Y. But don’t expect the same city you explored back in 2013! This version of Lumiose is going through a major urban makeover.
There’s more greenery, shiny new high-tech buildings, and overall a more modern vibe, blending nature with innovation. This makes it feel both familiar and totally new.
Your home base? A mysterious new place called Hotel Z, where your adventure kicks off after you arrive for a little sightseeing that quickly turns into something way bigger. You’ll meet new friends, face off against local troublemakers, and dig into mysteries that could shake the city to its core.
Meet the Cast & Some Very Familiar Faces
You won’t be alone in Lumiose. Throughout your journey, you’ll team up with characters like Urbain or Taunie. Fans of Pokémon X and Y will also be excited to see AZ and the mysterious Eternal Flower Floette back in action.
These characters will play a key role in the story, and they’re tied closely to some of the major events unraveling across the city.
Choose Your Starter
Once things start heating up, you’ll befriend a Pokémon partner to explore Lumiose with. And old friends are making a comeback! You can pick between Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile.
Now, as a lifelong Water-type starter main, Totodile is my recommendation. He’s loud, he’s chaotic, and he’s got that big smile energy!
Anyway, pick wisely, your journey as a Trainer starts with that choice!
Zygarde Returns, Mega Evolutions Are Back
Legendary Pokémon Zygarde is coming back too, in all three of its forms. And that’s not all: Mega Evolutions are back!
In Lumiose City, certain Pokémon can Mega Evolve during battle, giving you a major edge if you play your cards right. Confirmed Mega Evolutions so far include:
- Mega Charizard X and Y
- Mega Kangaskhan
- Mega Ampharos
- Mega Gardevoir
- Mega Sableye
- Mega Altaria
- Mega Absol
- Mega Lucario
More Mega forms might be waiting to be discovered once you explore the game.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A is growing up to be a bold step forward for the series. With upgraded visuals on Switch 2, and a blend of old favorites and new surprises, it’s definitely one to watch this year. And if did not play the older generations, now’s the perfect time for you to discover some of the best starters! A new adventure is waiting for everyone in the heart of Kalos.
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