The Pokémon Company has officially announced that its upcoming title Pokemon LEGENDS Z-A will be released on October 16, 2025 for Nintendo Switch, with full compatibility for the next-generation Switch2.
Digital pre-orders begin on June 5, while physical pre-orders start on July 23.
The game will retail for ¥7,128 (physical) and ¥7,100 (digital) in Japan.

Set in a Redeveloped Lumiose City with Partner Pokémon

Set in Lumiose City, which originally appeared in Pokemon X and Y (2013), Pokemon LEGENDS Z-A offers a brand-new adventure focused on coexistence between people and Pokémon. The protagonist visits Lumiose City on a trip and stays at the aging Hotel Z while exploring mysteries and incidents in the city alongside their chosen partner Pokémon—Chikorita, Totodile, or Tepig.

A New Real-Time Combat System for Pokémon and Trainers

For the first time in Pokémon history, the battle system features real-time action where both Trainers and Pokémon move together in dynamic environments. Rather than the traditional turn-based approach, players will control their Pokémon in real-time, issuing commands as they navigate the battlefield.

The system introduces:
Real-time positioning
Timing-based move execution
Range-based attacks
Switching and type-matchup strategies

This reimagined system offers a new level of depth and excitement for Pokémon battles.

Mega Evolution Returns with a Twist

The game will also feature the return of Mega Evolution, allowing certain Pokémon to undergo transformations beyond standard evolution. With the power of Keystones, Mega Stones, and enhanced by the strength of bonds, Mega Evolution adds a new layer of competitive depth. Mastering its use will be key to victory.

Explore the Wild Zone, a High-Tech Pokémon Sanctuary

As part of the urban redevelopment led by the corporate giant Quasar Corporation, Lumiose City now includes a technologically advanced Wild Zone—a dedicated area designed to foster coexistence with Pokémon. Here, players can:
Encounter wild Pokémon
Battle in open areas

Throw Poké Balls to capture them in real-time

A Follow-Up to Pokemon LEGENDS: Arceus

Pokemon LEGENDS Z-A follows in the footsteps of Pokemon LEGENDS: Arceus, which debuted in January 2022. That title introduced a bold new direction for the franchise, combining action and RPG mechanics as players explored ancient Hisui (Sinnoh) and captured Pokémon to complete the Pokédex.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will Pokemon LEGENDS Z-A be released?
The game is scheduled for release on October 16, 2025.

What platforms will it be available on?
Pokemon LEGENDS Z-A will be available for Nintendo Switch and is compatible with Switch2.

When do pre-orders start?
Digital pre-orders begin June 5, while physical versions can be pre-ordered starting July 23.

What’s new about the battle system?
The game introduces a real-time battle system where both Pokémon and Trainers move simultaneously, adding new depth to strategy and action.

What city is the game set in?
The story takes place in Lumiose City, originally featured in Pokemon X and Y (2013), now undergoing urban redevelopment.

Source : ORICON NEWS