Pokemon Legends: ZA – Everything You Need to Know

February 28, 2025 Joshua Brunhoff

Introduction

Pokémon Legends: Z-A is the next major entry in the Pokémon Legends series, set to launch worldwide in late 2025 for the Nintendo Switch. Building upon the success of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, this game offers a fresh take on the Kalos region, primarily focusing on Lumiose City. With new exploration mechanics, real-time battles, and the return of Mega Evolution, Pokémon Legends: Z-A is set to be one of the most ambitious Pokémon games to date.

Setting and Storyline

The game takes place in a futuristic version of Lumiose City, Kalos' bustling capital. Unlike previous Pokémon games, this installment centers on a single city and its surrounding wild areas. Players will explore dense urban environments, mysterious underground tunnels, and the outskirts of Kalos, where Pokémon have adapted to city life in unique ways.

The story revolves around AZ, the ancient king from Pokémon X and Y, whose past ties into the mysteries of the region. Players will reside in an old, historic hotel once owned by AZ, serving as their home base while embarking on a quest to uncover secrets hidden within Lumiose City.

Starter Pokémon

Unlike traditional Pokémon games, Pokémon Legends: Z-A breaks the mold by offering three unique starters from different generations instead of Kalos' native starters:

Chikorita (Grass-type) – Generation II
Tepig (Fire-type) – Generation V
Totodile (Water-type) – Generation II

Each starter has been carefully chosen to complement the game's urban and wild environments, making them adaptable to different challenges in Lumiose City.

Gameplay Mechanics

Real-Time Battles

Pokémon Legends: Z-A shifts away from traditional turn-based combat, introducing real-time battles where players must dodge attacks, strategically position their Pokémon, and time their moves carefully. This mechanic builds upon the semi-action combat system seen in Pokémon Legends: Arceus but adds more dynamic movement and player control.

Mega Evolution Returns

After years of absence, Mega Evolution is back as a major gameplay feature. Trainers can once again harness the power of Mega Stones to temporarily evolve their Pokémon into powerful Mega Forms. Some of the confirmed Mega Evolutions include:

Mega Charizard X and Y
Mega Kangaskhan
Mega Ampharos
Mega Gardevoir
Mega Sableye
Mega Altaria
Mega Absol
Mega Lucario
Mega Gyarados
Mega Mewtwo X and Y

Exploration and Open-World Design

Unlike previous Pokémon games that focused on open landscapes, Pokémon Legends: Z-A takes a deep dive into vertical exploration within Lumiose City. Players can:

Traverse rooftops and alleys to discover hidden Pokémon.
Enter underground tunnels where rare and mysterious Pokémon dwell.
Interact with NPCs and unlock missions that deepen the story of the city.

The game will feature seamless movement between urban districts and wild outskirts, allowing players to experience both city life and nature in one immersive world.

Release Information

Pokémon Legends: Z-A is scheduled for a worldwide release in late 2025, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch family of systems. Pre-orders are expected to open later in the year, with more details likely to be revealed during upcoming Pokémon Presents showcases.

Final Thoughts

Pokémon Legends: Z-A is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious Pokémon titles ever released. With its futuristic setting, real-time battles, the return of Mega Evolution, and a brand-new exploration system, this game is expected to push the boundaries of the Pokémon franchise. Whether you're a longtime fan of Pokémon X & Y’s Kalos region or a new player looking for a fresh experience, Pokémon Legends: Z-A promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Lumiose City.

Stay tuned for more official updates as we get closer to release!