The Pokémon Company hosted the latest Pokémon Presents today, featuring news across the Poké-verse, including the Trading Card Game, tournaments, theme park, and streaming shows.

But let’s be honest and focus on what we really care about: new details for highly anticipated new Pokémon game, Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

The showcase saved Z-A for dead last in the 20+ minute presentation. On the plus side, we got a new trailer showcasing the Switch 2 edition of the urban-focused RPG.

The trailer (above) focuses on the story, including choosing between two character appearances (boy and girl), and joining Team MZ to protect Lumiose City.

Team MZ features fashion designer Naveen and aspiring dancer Lida. During the day, players can explore the city in all its 3D glory, shop for clothes and other customization options, engage in side missions, and find new Pokémon.

At night, the city becomes more dangerous, and players can battle other trainers to advance their rank and compete in the Z-A Royale. The main plot revolves around the villainous Rust Syndicate, as well as powerful Pokémon Mega-Evolving on their own, and serving as big boss battles.

The trailer also reveals at least one new Mega Evolution, Mega Dragonite, who gets big ol’ wings on its head, like Dragonair.

Mega Evolution is the most popular gimmick among Pokémon fans, and Lumiose City is a fun return to Pokémon X/Y. But what makes Z-A particularly interesting is its real-time combat.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A will release on October 16 on Switch and Switch 2. Early purchasers can receive a Ralts with a Gardevoirite stone (unlocking its Mega Evolution) as well as 100 Pokéballs. Both goodies must be claimed by February 28, 2026.


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Eric has been writing for over nine years with bylines at Dicebreaker, Pixelkin, Polygon, PC Gamer, Tabletop Gaming magazine, and more covering movies, TV shows, video games, tabletop games, and tech. He reviews and live streams D&D adventures every week on his YouTube channel. He also makes a mean tuna quesadilla.