February 27 marks Pokémon Day, celebrating the franchise's debut in Japan in 1996.
This year's Pokémon Presents event brought a major update on Pokémon Legends: Z-A, including a new battle system, Mega Evolutions, and a futuristic take on Lumiose City.
Here's everything revealed so far about this highly anticipated game.
When Will Pokémon Legends: Z-A Release?
The Pokemon Company didn't really specify the release date of Pokemon Legends: Z-A but it was claimed that the game is scheduled to launch worldwide in late 2025 on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
What Are the Starter Pokémons?
(Credit: The Pokémon Company)
In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, players will choose between Chikorita (Gen 2), Totodile (Gen 2), and Tepig (Gen 5) as their starter Pokémon.
The reasoning behind this selection remains unclear, but it adds an interesting twist to the game's lineup.
Where Does Pokémon Legends: Z-A Take Place?
(Credit: The Pokémon Company)
The game is set entirely in Lumiose City, the iconic metropolis from Pokémon X and Y. However, this version of Lumiose appears to be undergoing a high-tech transformation led by Quasartico Inc.
Despite being an urban setting, Lumiose City will feature designated Wild Areas where Pokémon roam freely, allowing trainers to catch them in an open-world environment.
When Does Pokémon Legends: Z-A Take Place?
Unlike Pokémon Legends: Arceus, which was set in the distant past, Pokémon Legends: Z-A seems to take place in a near-future version of Kalos.
The city's technological advancements and AZ's rejuvenated appearance suggest a time period beyond the events of Pokémon X and Y.
What is the New Battle System Like?
Unlike the traditional turn-based system, Pokémon Legends: Z-A introduces real-time action battles.
Players can command their Pokémon to move around the battlefield, with attacks varying in range—some requiring close proximity while others can be launched from a distance.
Notably, moves now have cooldown timers, preventing repetitive attacks and adding a layer of strategy. This change aims to create a more dynamic and engaging combat experience.
How does Mega Evolution Work in Pokémon Legends: Z-A?
Mega Evolution makes a comeback in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. When a Pokémon Mega Evolves, all four of its moves receive a "+" symbol, though the exact effect remains unclear.
It is speculated that Mega Evolution enhances attack power, reduces cooldown times, and increases move range.
Who Are the Key Characters?
New rivals and corporate figures
The trailer introduced several new characters: Urbain and Taunie, who appear to be rivals; Jett, the CEO of Quasartico Inc.; her secretary Vinnie; and AZ, a returning character from Pokémon X and Y.
AZ and Eternal Flower Floette
AZ and his Floette played a significant role in Pokémon X and Y, though Floette was never obtainable in those games. This game may finally shed light on their story.
What is the Mysterious Battle Facility?
The trailer hinted at a competitive battle facility, which could be a revamped Battle Maison—a challenge-based battle arena from Pokémon X and Y.
Alternatively, it may serve as a substitute for traditional gyms and championships.
Editor's Comments
Pokémon Legends: Z-A is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious entries in the franchise.
The introduction of real-time battles marks a significant departure from the series' roots, potentially appealing to both longtime fans and new players. The return of Mega Evolution is another exciting development, though its mechanics remain somewhat mysterious.
Setting the game in a futuristic Lumiose City is an intriguing choice, especially with the presence of AZ and his Floette, which could provide long-awaited lore expansion.
The decision to include Wild Areas within an urban environment also suggests that Game Freak is experimenting with new ways to integrate open-world exploration into city settings.
While many details remain unknown—such as potential new Mega Evolutions and an official release date—this latest reveal has certainly heightened anticipation for Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
With its innovations in gameplay and storytelling, this title could redefine what a Pokémon game can be.
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