Pokemon Legends: Z-A Review – Game Freak Delivers a Refreshing Evolution on Nintendo Switch 2

Pokemon Legends: Z-A Review – Game Freak Delivers a Refreshing Evolution on Nintendo Switch 2 Pokemon Legends: Z-A, developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo, debuted on October 16, 2025, signaling a pivotal new chapter for the iconic Pokemon franchise.

Released on both the Nintendo Switch 2 and the original Nintendo Switch, Pokemon Legends: Z-A aims to address previous criticisms and push the series forward with meaningful gameplay and visual improvements.

Following the mixed technical receptions of titles like Pokemon Scarlet and Violet and Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, expectations were high for this next Legends entry.

With its extended development period and Game Freak’s renewed focus on innovation, Z-A is already being discussed alongside fan-favorite Pokemon Legends: Arceus as one of the best entries on Nintendo Switch platforms to date. A Fresh Take on Battle Systems and Gameplay Innovation One of the standout achievements in Pokemon Legends: Z-A is its reimagined battle system.

Inspired by the tactical feel of the Xenoblade Chronicles series, each Pokemon can use four abilities that recharge after use, emphasizing strategy and real-time movement.

Trainers control their Pokemon directly in battles, navigating to avoid wide-area attacks and exploiting positioning for tactical advantages.

This fresh approach reduces the grind often associated with previous Pokemon games, making leveling up and battling both quicker and more engaging.

As a largely single-player experience, Z-A’s combat design stands out as a unique high point amidst a series known for multiplayer traditions. The game introduces players to intense boss encounters against Rogue Mega Pokemon, spiritual successors to the Noble Pokemon found in Pokemon Legends: Arceus.

These sixteen formidable opponents require both strategic battling and dexterous dodging by the player.

While some bosses offer a forgiving challenge, a handful push the player’s skills to the limit.

These encounters add excitement and variety to the adventure, proving to be a consistently entertaining aspect of the campaign. Dynamic Gameplay in the Heart of Lumiose City Pokemon Legends: Z-A distinguishes itself with a tight focus on Lumiose City—a densely packed, secret-laden urban environment.

Players can explore rooftops, alleyways, and sewers, uncovering surprises at every turn.

Notably, the game employs an independent day-and-night cycle, with the passage of time affecting available activities.

During daylight, trainers can catch Pokemon, accept side quests, and progress the story.

At night, the Z-A Royale transforms sections of Lumiose City into competitive battle zones, where defeating trainers and earning points enables players to climb from rank Z to A on the leaderboard. An Expansive Roster of New Mega Evolutions Another major highlight is the introduction of numerous new Mega Evolutions, showcased throughout pivotal battles with storyline trainers.

Game Freak teases these reveals gradually, ensuring fans experience a sense of discovery.

The creative designs, such as a whimsically exaggerated Mega Victreebel, add both humor and novelty, enhancing the collectability and appeal for long-time fans and newcomers alike. Improvements and Remaining Franchise Constraints From a presentation perspective, Z-A marks a significant improvement over recent entries.

While some visual limitations remain—such as simplistic building exteriors—the overall art direction and animations, particularly in fully animated cutscenes, are among Game Freak’s best.

The inclusion of accessible building interiors and improved performance on the Nintendo Switch 2, where the game runs smoothly at 60 frames per second, further elevate the experience.

The original Switch supports a consistent 30 FPS, making the game enjoyable regardless of hardware, though the Switch 2 version offers noticeable enhancements. Despite its strengths, the lack of voice acting—especially in emotive, cinematic moments—remains a missed opportunity.

Additionally, the opening hours feature heavy tutorialization, which, while helpful for newcomers, may test the patience of franchise veterans.

Still, strong side quest writing and colorful NPC dialogue inject personality and life into Lumiose City. Conclusion: A Bold and Rewarding Step Forward With Pokemon Legends: Z-A, Game Freak displays a clear commitment to experimentation, accessibility, and revitalization.

The game’s streamlined battle mechanics, innovative single-city setting, and plethora of new Mega Evolutions combine to offer a refreshing take on the tried-and-true Pokemon formula.

While not without minor flaws, this installment marks a high point for the series on the Nintendo Switch family and is likely to delight both series devotees and newcomers seeking a modern Pokemon adventure.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pokémon Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch 2 Switch Game Freak Pokemon Pokemon Legends: Z-A Z Legends: Z-A Pokemon franchise Pokemon Legends Z-A Pokemon Legends Arceus Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl Lumiose City Mega Evolutions Xenoblade Chronicles Pokemon X and Y