Pokémon Legends: Z-A release window and gameplay revealed

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Today marks the 29th anniversary of the initial launch of Pokémon video games! The occasion was celebrated with a live stream lasting twenty minutes on the official Pokémon YouTube Channel, revealing updates for numerous active Pokémon games such as Pokémon GO, Pokémon Unite, and Pokémon TCG Pocket. A new mini set of cards will be available tomorrow in Pokémon TCG Pocket, along with the return of Mega Pokémon. Additionally, we got a sneak peek at Pokémon Legends: Z-A, which is slated for release sometime in late 2025. However, no further details were disclosed, but we did catch a glimpse of its gameplay.

Pokémon Presents reveals a late 2025 release window and more for Pokémon Legends: Z-A

During the closing of the Pokémon Presents broadcast, a glimpse into the gameplay for the sequel titled Legends: Z-A was unveiled. Essentially, this short video presented the second installment in the Legends series. The upcoming game is set in Lumiose City, which bears a striking resemblance to Paris, complete with an Eiffel Tower-like structure. As per the presentation, Lumiose City is undergoing a “smart city renovation” plan aimed at harmonizing human and Pokémon coexistence. This transformation is being orchestrated by the organization, Quasartico Inc., whose actions seem suspiciously reminiscent of an evil team.

Just as with Pokémon Legends: Arceus, players can pick from three familiar starter Pokémon, such as Chikorita and Totodile from the Johto region, along with Tepig who hails from Unova. It’s plausible that these trio may have updated final evolutions or possibly new Mega Evolutions in this game since Mega Evolution is set to make a comeback.

In the new game, Legends: Arceus, the trainer is depicted dodging assaults from untamed Pokémon – a unique characteristic of this title. Interestingly, trainers seem capable of sustaining damage from Pokémon attacks here. Regarding the cityscape, it seems part of the redevelopment plan involves “Wild Zones” where Pokémon can roam freely.

A less-disclosed feature is that trainers may catch wild Pokémon even when their health is depleted to zero. A few Pokémon were shown entering a dazed state, with stars circling above them, after their health bar was fully drained. For instance, a wild Flaaffy was captured in a Pokeball following this occurrence. This could represent a significant shift for the series.

In earlier games, when a wild Pokémon’s health reached zero, it essentially disappeared. Consequently, trainers had to be cautious not to defeat their intended capture target.

The standout feature unveiled was an innovative battle system. Unlike the traditional turn-based, static battles we’re used to from the series, these battles now allow Pokémon to move freely on the battlefield in real-time. This is a significant departure from how Pokémon battles have been conducted in the mainline games for the past 29 years. Although the specifics are not yet fully understood, it seems that trainers and their Pokémon will move together, with players using the buttons A, B, X, and Y to select the Pokémon’s moves. The video suggests that moves can have varying ranges or different areas of effect, so strategic positioning and timing will be crucial for gaining an advantage.” From the narration: “Moves can either reach far or short distances, or affect different areas, so think carefully about your timing and placement to gain the upper hand.

In the upcoming version of the game, the character AZ – an exceptionally tall individual with a distinctive Floette – who previously had a minor part in the original Pokémon X and Y games, will take on a more significant role, functioning as a key Non-Player Character (NPC). The video doesn’t provide complete clarity, but according to the official Pokémon website, AZ is the proprietor of Hotel Z. This hotel may serve as a central hub for the game, potentially serving as the equivalent of a professor’s lab in previous games.

In summary, the video didn’t show any new Pokémon or mega evolutions, although it did hint towards a promotional match at the Prism Tower in the city, but its meaning remains unclear. It’s likely that additional details will be shared during another Pokémon Presents event. Regardless, we know that Pokémon Legends: Z-A is still scheduled to release this year.

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2025-02-27 19:02