Pokémon Legends: Z-A: Complete Guide
Legends: Z-A Pokédex →Pokémon Legends: Z-A is a Pokémon game set entirely in and around Lumiose City, the centerpiece of the Kalos region. Released on October 16, 2025 for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, it follows Pokémon Legends: Arceus as the second Legends title.
Instead of a region-wide road trip, the game focuses on one city that is being rebuilt to let people and Pokémon live side by side. Battles take place in real time, and Mega Evolution returns with new Pokémon able to use it. The base game adds 29 brand-new Mega Evolutions, and the Mega Dimension expansion, released on December 10, 2025, adds 19 more. The Switch 2 Edition runs and looks better than the original, and it can also be played on an original Switch, without its Switch 2-specific extras. Owners of the Switch version can buy an upgrade pack.
It suits players who want a more action-oriented game, fans of Kalos, and anyone who enjoyed the changes in Legends: Arceus.
Legends: Z-A quick facts
Story and structure
This section keeps to the premise of the story and avoids spoilers.
The city of Lumiose is undergoing a large redevelopment project that aims to make it a place for both people and Pokémon. You arrive as a newcomer and quickly become involved in the project's events.
A mysterious series of battles, called the Z-A Royale, takes place at night, and joining it is the central way to rise through the ranks.
Lumiose City
The city is the entire setting, with dense streets, districts and hidden corners. Its layout is familiar to fans of the Kalos games.
Z-A Royale
A ranked battle event where trainers fight in the streets and climb from the lowest rank toward the top.
New mechanics explained
Real-time battles
Battles are not turn-based. Pokémon use moves in real time, and moves have a cooldown before they can be used again. You move around the battlefield and give commands.
Tip: Watch the cooldowns on your moves, and step out of the way of incoming attacks.
Mega Evolution
Mega Evolution returns from the sixth generation, letting certain Pokémon change forms and gain new strengths.
Tip: Keep a Mega Stone ready for the key moment in a long battle.
Wild Zones
Special areas inside Lumiose where wild Pokémon appear and can be caught. They bring a bit of nature into the city.
Tip: Visit them regularly, because different Pokémon appear at different times.
Starter Pokémon
You choose from three starters from earlier generations. They are Pokémon from previous regions, which makes the choice new for players who know them already.
| Starter | Final form | Final typing |
|---|---|---|
| Chikorita | Meganium | Grass |
| Tepig | Emboar | FireFighting |
| Totodile | Feraligatr | Water |
Chikorita line
Tepig line
Totodile line
Totodile becomes Feraligatr, a physically strong Water Pokémon.
Watch out: It is weak to Grass and Electric.
Our recommendation
For a first playthrough, we recommend Totodile for its strength. Tepig is an aggressive choice, and Chikorita suits players who like to play defensively.
About this release
Legends: Z-A is a single-version game.
- It is set in the Kalos region, and its legendary Pokémon is Zygarde.
- Mega Evolution returns for many Kalos Pokémon.
Keep exploring
Tips for new players
- Learn the real-time controls in a safe area before taking on tough opponents.
- Keep track of move cooldowns, because they decide how a fight plays out.
- Explore Lumiose City on foot, as many details are hidden away.
- Catch a range of Pokémon to give yourself options for each battle.
- Prepare healing items before important battles.
- Use Mega Evolution at the right moment, not at the start of every fight.
- Save regularly.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Pokémon Legends: Z-A set?
In Lumiose City, the main city of the Kalos region.
Is Legends: Z-A turn-based?
No. Its battles are in real time.
Which starters are in Legends: Z-A?
Chikorita, Tepig and Totodile.
Does Mega Evolution return?
Yes. Mega Evolution is part of the game.
Do I need to play Legends: Arceus first?
No. The two games are separate stories.