Pokémon Legends: Z-A Review — A Bold New Era in Lumiose City
The wait is finally over. Pokémon Legends: Z-A has officially launched on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, and it’s already making waves across the gaming world. Game Freak’s latest installment in the Pokémon Legends series takes us back to the Kalos region — but this time, through the bright neon lights and futuristic streets of Lumiose City.
After a few days of play, here’s our first impression: this might be the most ambitious Pokémon game ever made.
A Futuristic Kalos Reimagined
Set in a rebuilt version of Lumiose City, Pokémon Legends: Z-A transforms the once-charming capital of Kalos into a sprawling urban ecosystem that blends nature, technology, and mystery.
Players take on the role of a young trainer exploring a city undergoing massive redevelopment — part modern metropolis, part wild Pokémon habitat. The game’s theme of “urban harmony” is present everywhere: from green rooftops filled with Grass-type Pokémon to underground labs where engineers and trainers collaborate.
The visual upgrade is remarkable, especially on Switch 2, where the improved lighting and reflections give Lumiose a living, breathing atmosphere that surpasses any previous Pokémon title.
Gameplay — Evolved and Dynamic
If Pokémon Legends: Arceus was a bold experiment, Z-A is its refined evolution.
Seamless Exploration: The transition between city zones and natural environments feels fluid. There are no loading screens when moving from one area to another — a first for the Pokémon series.
Real-Time Battles: Combat merges traditional turn-based strategy with real-time decisions. Trainers can move freely during battles, dodge attacks, and even reposition their Pokémon strategically.
City Development Missions: A brand-new system allows players to influence Lumiose City’s future. Completing specific quests helps shape city districts, unlocking new facilities and events.
Mega Evolution Returns: The fan-favorite mechanic from Pokémon X/Y makes a powerful comeback. Mega Evolution now integrates into both story progression and high-level battles, with stunning animations and rebalanced mechanics.
Pokémon Variety and Design
Z-A introduces around 80 new or regionally adapted Pokémon, many of which have evolved to thrive in urban environments. Some early fan favorites include:
Urban Eevee Evolutions: A sleek Steel-type “Eevolta” and a Neon Electric-type “Voltivee.”
Mega Lucario (Z Form): Featuring a glowing aura with dual-type attacks.
Kalosian Butterfree: Now Electric/Flying, often seen gliding through the city’s neon skyline.
The design work reflects a mix of futuristic aesthetics and natural adaptation — perfectly aligned with the game’s theme.
Performance and Visuals
On the original Switch, the game runs well at 30 FPS with occasional frame dips during large-scale battles. On Switch 2, however, players enjoy 60 FPS performance, higher texture resolution, and improved dynamic lighting — making Lumiose City truly come alive.
Cutscenes, in particular, benefit from this hardware leap, giving the story a cinematic tone previously unseen in Pokémon titles.
Story and Tone
Pokémon Legends: Z-A offers a more mature and reflective storyline. The narrative explores themes of technology vs. nature, urbanization, and human responsibility toward Pokémon ecosystems.
While it’s still suitable for all ages, the dialogue and choices feel deeper and more emotionally engaging than in past entries. Long-time fans of Kalos will also appreciate subtle references to Pokémon X/Y, including the mysterious Zygarde Project that drives much of the plot.
Early Reception
Critics and fans alike are praising Pokémon Legends: Z-A for:
Its innovative gameplay structure
Visual depth and environmental storytelling
The triumphant return of Mega Evolution
Some criticism has emerged around minor performance issues and the complexity of the city navigation, but overall, it’s being hailed as a massive step forward for the Pokémon franchise.
Verdict: 9/10 — A Defining Pokémon Experience
Pokémon Legends: Z-A is everything fans hoped it would be — bold, immersive, and emotionally rich. It doesn’t just revisit Kalos; it redefines it for a new generation. Whether you’re exploring Lumiose’s skyline or discovering new Mega Evolutions, every moment feels fresh yet nostalgic.
It’s not just a new Pokémon game — it’s a glimpse into the future of the franchise.
Game Details
🕹️ Title: Pokémon Legends: Z-A
📅 Release Date: October 16, 2025
🎮 Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
🌍 Region: Kalos (Lumiose City and surrounding areas)
💫 Key Feature: Mega Evolution returns