Pokemon Legends Z-A is the next big release for the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. While it will follow some of what Pokémon Legends Arceus did a few years back, it’s tweaking the formula to be more self-contained, while also expanding on certain elements that the previous spinoff did. Today, Nintendo dropped the overview trailer for the title, expanding upon the game’s setting and gameplay functions for you to be aware of before you play. For example, like in the previous title, you can catch Pokémon without needing to battle them. However, some will attack you before you get to try that option.
Furthermore, there will be powerful Pokémon scattered throughout the Wild Zones that you’ll need to avoid until you have a team that can take them on! Customization will be a key thing for the title, as you’ll get to dress up your custom protagonist however you want, and then, you can take special selfies with your Pokémon all over Lumiose City!
When nighttime falls in Lumiose, the Z-A Royale begins. This is a special tournament where trainers start at Rank Z and attempt to climb to Rank A. To do so, you’ll need to fight multiple trainers, including sneaking up on some to get the advantage right off the bat. Once you get enough wins, you’ll face a trainer in a “Promotion Match.” If you win? Your rank goes up!
A key plotline throughout Pokemon Legends Z-A is you becoming a member of “Team MZ,” which is housed in Hotel Z. Alongside your new friends, you’ll work to solve problems and figure out mysteries within Lumiose, including the odd occurrences involving Mega Evolution!
Check out the full trailer below, and get the game on Switch or Switch 2 on October 16th!
An adventure across Lumiose City is about to begin!
Catch, battle, and Mega Evolve—all in real time—and aim to become the strongest Pokémon Trainer when Pokémon Legends: Z-A arrives Oct 16 on Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch.
Pre-order now: https://t.co/50WTr8Y7FD pic.twitter.com/QhJ4SWApEp
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) October 2, 2025
Source: Nintendo of America
