The Pokémon Company and Nintendo have released Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the first Pokémon game designed for Switch 2 (as well as Switch 1), available now in physical and digital shops.
Legends: Z-A is a spiritual sequel to Pokémon Legends: Arceus, and like Arceus, returns trainers to a previously explored region. In this case, the large hub city of Pokémon X and Y (2013), Lumiose City.
The other notable difference, is the use of real-time combat. In a series first, players move their Pokémon, time their moves, and dodge attacks. Moves that cause Pokémon to briefly disappear, such as Dig and Fly, become extra useful. Trainers must master each move’s delays and cooldown timers.
Powerful wild Pokémon called Alphas can chase you down, while every night features trainers in the city looking to do battle in a city wide tournament called the Z-A Royale.
Side Quests appear in the form of bonus cards with various tasks and objectives, such as using supereffective moves, or knocking out certain Types of Pokémon. By battling trainers and completing quests, players can ascend their rank from Z to A. Hey, that’s the thing!
Legends: Z-A also brings back Mega Evolution, arguably the most popular of the mainline Pokémon gimmicks. Mega Evolution works by filling the Mega Ring through battle, and staying close to your Pokémon, then transforming them into their ultimate form. Only certain Pokémon are capable of Mega Evolution.
Up to four players can battle together locally or online (online requires Nintendo Switch Online membership). Players can also transfer Pokémon from previous games using the Pokémon Home app.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A is available now on Switch and Switch 2. A Switch 2 upgrade pack ($9.99) is available if you get the Switch 1 version now, and get a Switch 2 console later. The Switch 2 version features improved performance, enhanced resolution, and better frame rates.
The first DLC, Mega Dimension, is also available ($29.99), and includes two new Mega Evolutions for Raichu. Plus new story content, arriving February 28.
Z-A is rated E10+ with Fantasy Violence.
