Pokémon Legends: Z-A preorder, Mega Evolutions, and gameplay explained

Pokémon Legends: Z-A is the next big step for the series. It takes us back to Kalos, but not in the way you might remember. The game is set entirely in Lumiose City, which is undergoing a massive redevelopment project, and it plays very differently from any mainline Pokémon title before it.

Real-time battles replace the traditional turn-based system, Wild Zones take over as the main exploration areas, and Mega Evolution finally makes its comeback. With the release date set for Oct. 16, 2025, here’s everything you need to know about how it works, which Megas are confirmed, and what preorder bonuses you can expect.

Release date, platforms, and editions

The wait ends on Oct. 16, 2025, when Pokémon Legends: Z-A launches worldwide. The game will be available on both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, with an enhanced edition that runs better on the new hardware. Nintendo is even bundling the game with a Switch 2 console if you want to upgrade.

Preorder bonuses

If you preorder Pokémon Legends: Z-A, you’ll get a few extras to give you a head start. The most important one is a Mystery Gift Ralts that comes holding a Gardevoirite Stone, which means you can Mega Evolve Gardevoir much earlier than normal.

Digital preorders also come with a bonus of 100 Poké Balls, which is handy for filling your Pokédex in the early hours, although you’ll need to redeem them before Feb. 28, 2026. Depending on where you buy, some retailers are also offering small collectibles such as pins, figurines, or tote bags.

Confirmed Mega Evolutions

Mega Evolution is officially back in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and it works a little differently this time. Instead of being permanent for the rest of the battle, Megas are powered by a Mega Gauge that fills as you deal damage. Once activated, the transformation only lasts for a limited time, although keeping up the pressure can extend it.

Many familiar Mega Evolutions from Pokémon X/Y and Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire are returning, including Mega Charizard X and Y, Mega Kangaskhan, Mega Ampharos, Mega Gardevoir, Mega Sableye, Mega Altaria, Mega Absol, and Mega Lucario. On top of that, Game Freak is adding brand-new Mega forms.

Mega Victreebel is a monstrous plant with even stronger trapping abilities, while Mega Hawlucha bulks up into a powerhouse that emphasizes aerial combat. Mega Dragonite has taken design cues from Dragonair, giving it a sleeker but more powerful look. And Mega Malamar was revealed with a glowing, brain-enhanced form that amplifies its psychic and hypnotic abilities.

How the game works

This is not the same Pokémon structure you might be used to. Instead of a sprawling region with gyms, the entire game takes place within Lumiose City. The developers have carved the city into distinct Wild Zones that act as enclosed habitats where wild Pokémon roam. During the day, you can explore these areas, complete quests, and work on your Pokédex. At night, the city becomes much more dangerous, as Z-A Royale battles open up and trainers roam the streets looking for fights.

Combat itself is completely real-time. Each Pokémon’s moves run on cooldown timers instead of PP, so you need to think about timing and positioning. Trainers can move around freely, dodge attacks, and swap Pokémon mid-battle, which makes every fight more dynamic. Alpha Pokémon return as oversized, aggressive wild encounters that feel more like boss fights, and Rogue Mega Pokémon sometimes appear as even tougher challenges.

The ranking system ties directly into these night battles. Everyone starts at Rank Z and can climb all the way to Rank A by competing in promotion battles. Completing side quests and bonus missions also helps you climb the ladder, which makes exploring every part of the city worth your time.

Progression is tied to your Rotom Phone Pokédex, which tracks catches, habitats, and evolutions. You’ll also be collecting Mega Shards throughout the city, which can be traded for Mega Stones at specialized shops like the Stone Emporium. Each Wild Zone also has its own crown system that rewards you for completing the local Pokédex in that area.

Strategy tips

Getting started in Pokémon Legends: Z-A can be overwhelming, especially with all the new mechanics. A good rule of thumb is to stay mobile, since dodging and positioning can be just as important as which move you use. You’ll also want to manage your cooldowns carefully. If you fire off all your strongest moves back-to-back, you might find yourself waiting helplessly while enemies close in.

It’s smart to use the daytime to farm items and prepare your team, then take on the riskier Royale battles at night once you’re ready. A balanced team is essential, so make sure your party covers multiple weaknesses before heading into trainer duels. And finally, prioritize unlocking Mega Evolutions as soon as you can. Getting a Mega-ready Gardevoir or Charizard early can completely change the flow of tougher fights.