Pokémon fans around the world are gearing up for one of the most anticipated launches in the franchise’s history: the release of Pokémon Legends: Z-A on October 16, 2025. With just hours to go before the game hits shelves (and digital storefronts), excitement is at a fever pitch—and for good reason. This new entry promises to be a radical shake-up of the mainline series, blending fresh mechanics, a vibrant urban setting, and a bounty of exclusive bonuses that have players scrambling to secure their preorders.
According to Mashable, Walmart has managed to pull ahead in the preorder race by offering a unique incentive: free starter Pokémon pins with every physical copy of Pokémon Legends: Z-A. These collectible pins, featuring fan-favorite starters Chikorita, Totodile, and Tepig, have experienced stock issues due to overwhelming demand. Yet, Walmart has now reopened its preorder floodgates, promising release-day shipping so trainers won’t have to wait for their adventure—or their exclusive pins. It’s a move that’s left other retailers like Best Buy trailing, and it’s clear that these little extras are making a big difference for collectors and fans alike.
But what’s got the Pokémon community truly buzzing isn’t just the swag. Pokémon Legends: Z-A is set to revolutionize the series’ core gameplay. As Mashable and TechRadar both report, the game ditches the traditional gym and Pokémon League structure in favor of the Z-A Royale, a graded battle ranking system. Trainers will now work their way from rank Z to A, facing off against rivals in battle zones and earning promotions with each victory. This new system is a far cry from the region-touring adventures of the past and signals a bold new direction for the franchise.
Perhaps even more exciting for longtime fans is the return of Mega Evolution, a mechanic that hasn’t appeared in a mainline Pokémon game for twelve years. Not only is Mega Evolution back, but Pokémon Legends: Z-A introduces several brand new Mega Evolutions: Mega Chesnaught, Mega Delphox, Mega Greninja, Mega Hawlucha, Mega Dragonite, Mega Victreebell, and Mega Malamar. According to TechRadar, these additions breathe new life into the battle system, allowing trainers to collect mega energy orbs and transform their Pokémon in real time. There’s even a pair of exclusive Mega Raichu forms—Mega Raichu X and Y—reserved for the upcoming Mega Dimension DLC, which will launch post-release, though a date hasn’t yet been set.
Gameplay itself is getting a major overhaul. Battles now take place in real time, requiring players to pay close attention to movement, attack cooldowns, and the strategic use of mega energy. Rooftop traversal and fenced-off wild areas within the game’s sole setting—Lumiose City—offer a fresh twist on exploration. As TechRadar notes, the city is more vibrant than ever, with Prism Tower at its heart and greenery woven throughout. Players begin their journey as tourists staying at Hotel Z, which quickly becomes their base of operations in the quest for battle supremacy.
Starter Pokémon for this adventure are a mix of old and new favorites: Tepig from Generation 5 and Totodile and Chikorita from Generation 2. TechRadar highlights that Tepig is the odd one out, likely replacing Cyndaquil from the previous Legends installment. Each starter brings its own evolutionary path and battle strengths, giving trainers plenty to consider as they plan their teams.
For those eager to jump in the moment the game drops, preloading is available via the Nintendo Switch eShop. The game’s file size clocks in at a manageable 4.1GB, and while there’s no confirmed day-one patch, players are advised to keep an eye out just in case. Release times are staggered by region: the East Coast of the US will see the game unlock at midnight on October 16, while the West Coast gets early access at 9PM on October 15 due to time zone differences. The UK, Central Europe, Australia, and Japan will all receive the game at midnight local time on launch day.
It’s worth noting that Pokémon Legends: Z-A is not a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive. The game is launching simultaneously on both the original Nintendo Switch and the new Switch 2 console. However, as TechRadar points out, the Switch 2 version boasts improved visuals and a higher framerate, making it the platform of choice for players seeking the smoothest experience.
Of course, a new console generation means a fresh wave of accessories. GamesRadar+ reports that the Nintendo Switch 2 has now been out for four months, and accessory maker Jsaux is running sales on a range of products to help players prepare for their next-gen Pokémon journey. Deals include tempered glass screen protectors for $6.99, ergonomic charging grips for $18.99, charging docks for $22.09, and all-in-one carrying cases for $35.99. While the Switch 2 comes with everything needed to start playing—handheld, dock, AC adapter, HDMI cable, Joy-Con 2 grip, and rails—these extras can make long play sessions more comfortable and travel less stressful. As GamesRadar+ notes, "grabbing extra goodies can make your next-gen Nintendo experience a lot more joyful, but it entirely depends on how you play."
For those who plan to take their Switch 2 on the go, the Jsaux All-in-One Carrying Case is a standout option, offering storage for the console, dock, cables, and even a Pro Controller. Meanwhile, the ergonomic charging grip is ideal for players who prefer docked mode and want to keep their Joy-Con 2 controllers powered up during marathon sessions. These accessories, while not strictly necessary, are proving popular as fans prepare for the game’s launch.
Critical reception for Pokémon Legends: Z-A is already strong. TechRadar awarded the game a glowing 4.5 out of 5 stars, with Senior Staff Writer Hamish Hector calling it “a mega evolution for the franchise.” The review praises the game’s innovative mechanics, engaging setting, and the return of Mega Evolution as a game-changer for both newcomers and veterans alike. Early impressions from players and reviewers suggest that the game will rank highly among the best Nintendo Switch 2 titles.
As the countdown to launch ticks away, trainers everywhere are finalizing their teams, securing their preorders, and perhaps even picking up a few extra accessories to make their journey through Lumiose City one to remember. With its bold new direction, exciting mechanics, and a host of thoughtful extras, Pokémon Legends: Z-A is poised to make a lasting mark on the world of Pokémon—and on the hearts of fans old and new.
With so much innovation packed into a single title, the franchise’s future looks brighter—and more electrifying—than ever before.
