Pokémon Legends: Z-A Release Date, Mega Evolution Merch, and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Details Revealed

The Pokémon Company International has officially unveiled the release date and new details for the highly anticipated title, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, marking a major milestone for the iconic franchise’s expansion on the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.

Alongside this announcement, a fresh range of Mega Evolution-themed merchandise has been launched to energize fans ahead of release, while confirmation of the summer Pokémon Presents presentation adds further excitement for the franchise’s global community. Pokémon Legends: Z-A and its Nintendo Switch 2 Edition are both set for worldwide release on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

According to The Pokémon Company, preorders will open beginning Thursday, June 5, 2025, via the Nintendo eShop.

For players eager to secure the latest experience, both digital and physical editions for the Nintendo Switch will be offered, with an innovative upgrade pathway allowing users to migrate to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition by purchasing an upgrade pack.

These upgrade packs will be accessible through the Nintendo eShop and the My Nintendo Store. The cover art, also revealed this week, highlights the main characters and their partner Pokémon engaged in a dramatic nocturnal battle against a Mega-Evolved Pokémon in the iconic setting of Lumiose City.

This visual encapsulates the exciting new direction of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, which introduces a fresh approach to the Pokémon series by focusing the narrative within a single urban environment and featuring an innovative real-time battle system that brings new action elements to the established RPG formula. Celebrating the return of Mega Evolution, the Pokémon Center – the official store for licensed Pokémon merchandise – has launched a new line of apparel, accessories, and collector’s items.

Mega Evolution favorites like Mega Charizard X, Mega Charizard Y, Mega Venusaur, Mega Gengar, and Mega Lucario headline the lineup with giant pins, exclusive apparel, and plush.

This release forms part of a broader, year-long celebration spotlighting Mega-Evolved Pokémon, with new products rolling out throughout the year on PokemonCenter.com. In addition, starting next month, players in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.

who preorder Pokémon Legends: Z-A via Pokémon Center will be eligible to receive a complimentary Pokémon Sitting Cuties plush—randomly featuring Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile—while supplies last.

The initiative reinforces The Pokémon Company's commitment to rewarding early supporters and fostering excitement ahead of the blockbuster launch. With the return of Mega Evolution, the introduction of a dynamic new RPG experience, and expanded hardware support, Pokémon Legends: Z-A is set to become a defining entry for the series on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.

For more updates, fans can look forward to this summer’s Pokémon Presents presentation, which will offer additional insights into upcoming titles and franchise plans.

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