Pokémon Legends: Z-A Launches Worldwide for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2

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Published on: October 16, 2025

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Pokémon Legends: Z-A Launches Worldwide for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 The Pokémon franchise takes another bold step forward as Pokémon Legends: Z-A officially debuts on both the Nintendo Switch and newly released Nintendo Switch 2.

Developed by Game Freak, this highly anticipated RPG invites players to explore a reimagined Lumiose City, marking a fresh direction for one of gaming’s best-selling series. Pokémon Legends: Z-A represents the latest evolution in the storied Pokémon universe, offering trainers a unique blend of traditional catching mechanics and innovative open-environment exploration.

Today, fans around the world can embark on this urban adventure as the new title becomes available via physical release and digital download on the Nintendo eShop. A New Era in Lumiose City Game Freak has revitalized the Kalos region’s iconic Lumiose City, placing players in the midst of an ambitious urban redevelopment project.

The storyline centers on transforming the city into a harmonious space where people and Pokémon coexist.

At the start of their journey, trainers choose one of three partner Pokémon—Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile—to accompany them through the city’s sprawling districts and untamed Wild Zones. In these Wild Zones, players encounter a diverse range of Pokémon, engaging in real-time catching by accurately aiming Poké Balls or battling alongside their chosen team members.

The game’s design emphasizes player freedom and dynamic interaction, drawing from the gameplay advancements previously seen in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Game Freak producer Junichi Masuda remarked that Pokémon Legends: Z-A is designed to "deepen the bond between players and their Pokémon partners while reimagining classic mechanics for a new generation of hardware and fans." This approach is evident throughout the immersive environments and hands-on gameplay that define the latest title. Launch and Platform Details Pokémon Legends: Z-A debuts simultaneously on both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 platforms, making the game widely accessible to established Nintendo fans and early adopters of the next-gen hardware.

The title is available for purchase via the Nintendo eShop and at major retail outlets worldwide. Critical reception has begun to pour in, with early reviews praising its expansive city setting, the seamless integration of traditional and new game mechanics, and the engaging narrative.

The worldwide launch is expected to further bolster the Pokémon franchise, which has already surpassed 440 million units sold since its inception in 1996. For those interested in a closer look, the official Pokémon Legends: Z-A launch trailer showcases the game’s vibrant urban landscapes, dynamic Pokémon encounters, and fresh gameplay elements.

Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the world of Pokémon, Pokémon Legends: Z-A signals an exciting new chapter for the series on Nintendo's latest platforms.

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Pokemon Legends: Z-A launch trailer