Pokémon Legends: ZA will be released on October 16th for the Nintendo Switch. The game will also have an enhanced version for the new Switch 2 console, with higher-resolution graphics and smoother movement. Digital pre-orders begin on June 5th, the same day as the new console's launch. The physical edition will be available on July 23rd. The title promises a fresh take on the franchise by focusing its story on a single city.
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The Pokémon Company has released the information and confirmed a new Pokémon Presents presentation for July 22. The event will detail new elements of the game and may feature other surprises related to the Pokémon universe.
Pokémon Legends ZA takes place in Lumiose City and focuses on real-time battles and a narrative-driven approach. The official cover reveals the main characters facing off against a Mega-Evolved Pokémon. The game is expected to renew interest in the series.
New title in the franchise will be exclusive to Lumiose City
Pokémon Legends: ZA will be set entirely in Lumiose City, one of the most well-known locations from the sixth generation of the franchise. The idea is to focus the narrative on an urban space filled with challenges and connections to the history of the Kalos region. The setting will be a central part of the experience, with new visual elements and mechanics inspired by modern RPGs.
The decision to limit the geographic map may indicate a shift in the franchise's focus. Instead of a sprawling open world, the game will prioritize narrative development and character development. According to The Pokémon Company, the town's design will be detailed and interactive, allowing for new ways to explore and interact with local inhabitants and Pokémon.
Nintendo Switch 2 will receive a version with graphical and performance improvements
The game will have a Nintendo Switch 2-optimized version that will launch globally on June 5th. Additionally, this edition will offer technical improvements such as a higher frame rate, improved resolution, and smoother motion. Nintendo's official website also states that both the digital and physical versions can be upgraded to this enhanced edition.
With these improvements, the franchise aims to align with current performance standards without abandoning the previous console's audience. Therefore, players who purchase Pokémon Legends ZA for the traditional Nintendo Switch will still be able to enjoy the full experience, albeit with the graphical limitations inherent to the previous generation.
Digital pre-orders for Pokémon Legends: ZA begin in June, and the physical version arrives in July.
Nintendo will begin digital pre-orders for the game on June 5, the same date as the official launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. Retailers will also begin distributing the physical edition on July 23. By scheduling these dates close together, the company aims to create a cycle of engagement leading up to the October launch.
Nintendo is therefore betting on a long-term campaign that will include trailers, demos, and coverage of the Pokémon Presents event. The goal is to keep the title in the spotlight in the months leading up to its release, capitalizing on the company's hardware renewal.
Pokémon Presents will bring news in July and may reveal surprises
The Pokémon Company has scheduled the next edition of Pokémon Presents for July 22nd. The team will broadcast the event on the franchise's official YouTube channel and will also present new information about Pokémon Legends ZA. The program will also highlight other Pokémon franchises, such as mobile games and spin-off titles.
In addition to the general updates, the company plans to reveal details about the new real-time battle system, a new feature in this edition. Finally, the developers are also expected to confirm the presence of Mega Evolutions, already featured on the game's official cover.
