Pokémon Legends: Z-A Adds Link Battles and Z-A Battle Club to Switch and Switch 2

Pokémon Legends: Z-A Expands Multiplayer Features with Z-A Battle Club and Link Battles Coming to Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the latest mainline installment from The Pokémon Company, is set to deliver a significant evolution in series multiplayer with the introduction of Link Battles and the Z-A Battle Club.

Unveiled during the 2025 Pokémon World Championships, this highly anticipated feature is poised to energize the competitive Pokémon community when the game launches worldwide on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 on October 16, 2025. Background and Release Details Announced during one of the most-watched segments of the Pokémon World Championships, Pokémon Legends: Z-A marks the next chapter in the beloved franchise, bringing both solo adventure and robust multiplayer components to Nintendo’s current and next-generation hardware.

Pre-orders for the game are officially open on the Nintendo eShop and participating retailers. Introducing Link Battles and Z-A Battle Club Central to the new multiplayer offering is the Z-A Battle Club, a dedicated mode designed to let up to four trainers connect via Link Battles.

In these high-energy matches, players compete to defeat the highest number of opposing Pokémon in a set three-minute time window.

Unlike standard battles, the focus shifts to strategic offense, rapid decision-making, and utilizing the full arsenal of available moves, including the return of Mega Evolutions. A representative statement from The Pokémon Company outlined the format: “Within the Z-A Battle Club, each match is limited to three minutes, and the trainer who eliminates the most opposing Pokémon in that period will emerge as the winner.” This streamlined, fast-paced format is expected to provide intense competitive gameplay, encouraging trainers to adapt their strategies and make the most of Mega Evolutions, which have been a fan-favorite mechanic since their introduction in earlier generations. Platform History and More As Pokémon Legends: Z-A launches on both Nintendo Switch and the new Switch 2 platform, players can expect broad accessibility and enhancements tailored for each system.

With the enduring popularity of Pokémon titles on the Switch—several entries have already exceeded 10 million units sold according to official sales data—anticipation runs high for Z-A's expanded features and community-driven gameplay. Pre-Order and Future Updates Pokémon Legends: Z-A is set for release on October 16, 2025.

Pre-orders are currently available via the Nintendo eShop and major retail partners.

The Pokémon Company continues to promise additional updates and post-launch support, signaling their ongoing commitment to innovation and player engagement. For more details and ongoing coverage of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, including developer interviews and feature spotlights, stay tuned to our Nintendo news section.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pokémon Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch 2 Link Switch Pokémon Legends: Z-A Mega Evolutions Z Z-A Battle Club Pokémon Company Pokémon World Championships