Pokémon Legends Z-A is one of the most anticipated games in the series. After the big success of Pokémon Legends Arceus, fans have great expectations about this new entry with updated graphics and mechanics on the Nintendo Switch 1 & 2.
This time, we are returning to the Kalos Region and exploring a fully reimagined Lumiose City. This new installment combines the exploration style of Legends: Arceus, but instead of having a big open world, it will focus on a very detailed city. On top of that, we will have a glorious comeback of Mega Evolutions, first introduced in Pokémon X and Y for the Nintendo 3DS.
This guide answers every important question about the game, including the Pokémon Legends Z-A release date, preorder details and bonuses, starter Pokémon, mega evolutions, gameplay mechanics, map structure, and pricing.
What Is Pokémon Legends Z-A About?
Pokémon Legends Z-A is the second entry in the “Legends” series, following Legends: Arceus, which launched on January 28, 2022. Instead of covering multiple cities, the game focuses on Lumiose City, the main city of the Kalos region.
The story revolves around an Urban Redevelopment Plan, which presents you with a city with many places, where you will encounter different creatures, trainers, quests, and mysteries. This time you are playing as a trainer that will go through an interesting night and day cycle, where day will be reserved for catching Pokémon and night for having fights with trainers.
In some ways, I think it has some vibes to the Persona series approach. Don’t you think?
When Does Pokémon Legends Z-A Come Out and How Do You Preorder It?
The Pokémon Legends Z-A release date is October 16, 2025, with a global launch on both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
It will be released as a single digital and physical game, but also as a bundle with the Nintendo Switch 2. Probably, this will be a release that, along with Mario Kart World, will be a system seller for long-time Pokémon fans.
Will I receive a Bonus for pre-order?
Yes, if you preorder or purchase Pokémon Legends: Z-A before February 28, 2026, you will receive these two bonuses for both digital and physical versions of the game:
- Special Ralts holding a Gardevoirite stone: After evolving into Gardevoir, this Pokémon can Mega Evolve into Mega Gardevoir, unlocking its full psychic power.
- 100 Poké Balls: You will receive a code valid until March 10, 2026, giving you an early advantage in catching Pokémon.
Price and Editions
- Nintendo Switch version: $59.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 version: $69.99
- Upgrade option: $9.99 to move from Switch to Switch 2.
Which Starter Pokémon Are in Pokémon Legends Z-A
The Pokémon Legends Z-A starter Pokémon are again a mix of the starters from other regions: Chespin, Totodile, and Tepig.
- Chespin (Grass)
Generation VI, evolves into Chesnaught. Known for its durable shell and balanced stats. Rumored to gain a Mega Chesnaught form. - Tepig (Fire)
Generation V starter from the Unova region. Evolves into Pignite, then Emboar. It focuses on Fire and Fighting powers. Rumors suggest Emboar might receive a Mega Evolution. - Totodile (Water)
Generation II starter from the Johto region. Evolves into Croconaw, then Feraligatr. Popular for its playful design and strong physical attack. Rumored to gain a Mega Feraligatr form.
What Mega Evolutions Are Confirmed in Pokémon Legends Z-A?
Mega Evolutions return in full force, fitting for a game set in Kalos. For now, we have a confirmation of two new Mega Evolutions: Mega Victriveel and Mega Dragonite.
These two add up to the already existing mega evolution forms introduced on X and Y, which will be a part of at least another 26 leaked possible Mega Evolutions; you can see the list here.
How Will the Gameplay Work in Pokémon Legends Z-A?
The battle system in Pokémon Legends Z-A shifts away from the traditional turn-based format and instead uses real-time combat. Battles start seamlessly in the overworld, and you control your Pokémon by locking onto enemies and selecting one of four moves with the face buttons. Each move has a cooldown rather than a PP limit, making fights feel more like an action RPG with constant inputs and rotation-based attacks.
Key features include:
- Seamless overworld encounters, no transition screens
- Lock-on targeting with ZL and four move buttons
- No PP system, moves use cooldown timers
- Sneak attacks give the opponent or you a free critical hit
- Trainer battles target only Pokémon, but wild and rogue Mega Pokémon can hurt the trainer too
- Rogue Mega battles involve dodging, targeting, and collecting Mega Power Orbs to sustain your own Mega Evolutions
The system feels faster and more engaging, and it resembles a MMO-style video game. Trainer battles are simple, whereas Mega encounters have a “big boss” vibe that will take longer to overcome.
How Is the Map Structured in Pokémon Legends Z-A?
The Pokémon Legends Z-A map is unique and something not seen before in a Pokémon game: instead of an entire region, it’s one massive city divided by different areas.
Map Features
- Central Districts: Prism Tower, North and South Boulevards, Café Street.
- Wild Zones: Forests, rivers, and ruins around Lumiose.
- Underground: Metro tunnels and sewers with rare Pokémon.
- Rooftops and Towers: Vertical areas for training and battles.
When Luminose City was first introduced in Pokémon X and Y, it was impressive because of its dimensions of ir. But this reimagination of it takes it to another whole level. Making it a place where you can spend hours visiting and discovering its secrets.
Final Thoughts on Pokémon Legends Z-A
Pokémon Legends Z-A combines nostalgia with innovation. From the return of starter Pokémon like Chespin, Tododile, and Chikorita, to the reintroduction of Mega Evolutions, it has something for every fan.
With its October 16, 2025 release, preorder bonuses across US retailers, and a refined gameplay system, it’s already shaping up to be a major title for both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.