Pokémon Legends: Z-A Unveils Mega Dragonite and More in Latest Nintendo Direct Trailer

Pokémon Legends: Z-A took center stage during today’s Pokémon Presents showcase, delivering significant new details for the highly anticipated addition to the Pokémon franchise.

Developed by The Pokémon Company (TPC) and Nintendo, Pokémon Legends: Z-A continues the series' evolution on the Nintendo Switch platform and, for the first time, is set to launch alongside the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. A highlight of the presentation was the extended reveal trailer, which delved deep into the game’s narrative, side missions, and the return of Mega Evolutions—a fan-favorite mechanic last seen in the main series several years ago.

The footage also offered an exciting first glimpse at Mega Dragonite, a brand-new transformation for the classic dragon-type Pokémon.

This Mega Evolution incorporates "Dragonair-like attributes," including prominent wings perched atop the head and a distinctive pearl gracing its tail, blending nostalgia with fresh design elements.

While community reactions to the new look have been mixed, the inclusion of Mega Dragonite marks a notable expansion of the Mega Evolution roster and further connects Legends: Z-A to longstanding series lore. Players will soon find themselves navigating Lumiose City as they confront powerful rogue Mega-Evolved Pokémon that have begun to emerge throughout the metropolis.

To tackle these formidable foes, Trainers will have to rely on strategic team-building and new gameplay mechanics.

The latest trailer also offered a closer look at the game’s combat system, which has drawn comparisons to the celebrated action-RPG style of the Xenoblade series.

This blend of fast-paced real-time action with tactical choices continues to generate enthusiasm among both veteran Pokémon fans and newcomers alike. For those who may have missed the live Pokémon Presents stream, the Legends: Z-A segment was divided across two trailers: one emphasizes the game’s expanded narrative and city-based quests, while the other focuses on detailed gameplay features and the new Mega Evolution mechanics. Coinciding with the anticipated software release, Nintendo confirmed a special Pokémon Legends: Z-A Switch 2 bundle.

This exclusive bundle, featuring themed hardware and the game pre-installed, will launch on October 16, 2024, alongside the standard release of Pokémon Legends: Z-A for both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.

Given the series’ impressive track record—with previous entries consistently charting near the top of global sales rankings—expectations are high that this latest installment will be among the most significant Nintendo launches of the year. Pokémon Legends: Z-A promises to deliver a bold, city-centric adventure brimming with new features, returning fan favorites like Mega Evolutions, and enhanced gameplay experiences.

With its October 16 release date now confirmed and a Switch 2 bundle on the horizon, Pokémon Legends: Z-A stands poised to captivate both longtime Pokémon enthusiasts and the next generation of Trainers.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pokémon Nintendo Nintendo Direct Switch 2 Switch Pokémon Legends: Z-A Pokémon Presents Dragonite Mega Evolutions Mega Dragonite Pokémon Legends Z-A TPC Lumiose City