The Pokémon Company International has officially revealed new details about the upcoming game Pokémon Legends: Z-A, including its release date, cover art, and a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. In addition, a new line of Mega Evolution merchandise is now available at Pokémon Center, and the next Pokémon Presents broadcast has been confirmed for July 22, 2025.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Release Date and Versions
Pokémon Legends: Z-A will launch globally on Thursday, October 16, 2025, for both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Starting June 5, fans can preorder the game digitally through the Nintendo eShop. Players who purchase the standard Switch version can upgrade to the Switch 2 Edition via an upgrade pack, available on Nintendo eShop and My Nintendo Store.
The newly revealed cover art features the game’s protagonists and partner Pokémon in a dramatic nighttime showdown against a Mega-Evolved Pokémon in Lumiose City.
What to Expect from Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Unlike past entries, Pokémon Legends: Z-A introduces a bold new direction for the franchise:
- A single-city RPG adventure set entirely within Lumiose City, reimagined in greater detail.
- Real-time battle mechanics, mixing classic strategy with dynamic action elements.
- A story of collaboration between humans and Pokémon, reshaping the future of urban life and Pokémon coexistence.
This game is expected to redefine how fans experience Pokémon stories and gameplay.
Mega Evolution Merch Launches at Pokémon Center
To celebrate the return of Mega Evolution in Z-A, Pokémon Center is releasing a year-long lineup of merchandise spotlighting fan-favorite Mega-Evolved Pokémon.
Now available:
- Giant collector pins featuring Mega Charizard X and Mega Charizard Y
- Apparel and accessories inspired by Mega Gengar, Mega Lucario, Mega Venusaur, and more
There are also some goodies for preordering. Starting next month, fans who preorder Pokémon Legends: Z-A from Pokémon Center in the U.S., Canada, or U.K. will receive a free Sitting Cuties plush randomly selected from Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile while supplies last.
Pokémon Presents On July 22
Mark your calendars: a new Pokémon Presents broadcast will air on Tuesday, July 22 via the official Pokémon YouTube channel. This presentation promises updates across the franchise, including potential new trailers or gameplay reveals for Pokémon Legends: Z-A and more.
A New Era for Pokémon
With an ambitious new game, collectible Mega Evolution gear, and the continued evolution of the Switch hardware, Pokémon Legends: Z-A is shaping up to be one of the biggest franchise entries in years. Fans eager to revisit Lumiose City and experience Pokémon in an all-new light won’t want to miss this fall’s release.
What are your thoughts on the announcements? Will you be pre-ordering and playing Z-A? Let us know your favorite Pokémon in the comments down below!
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