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Z-A gets a release date, and July’s Pokémon Presents could hold a major surprise.

Z-A gets a release date and a July Pokémon Presents could have a huge surprise in store

The Pokémon Company has revealed the release details for Pokémon Legends: Z-A and scheduled the next Pokémon Presents event for July. The announcement also provided insights into the differences between the game’s versions for the Switch and Switch 2. Similar to other Switch titles, Legends: Z-A will feature a $10 premium upgrade pack. Pre-orders for the game will begin on June 5th, coinciding with the release of Switch 2. Additionally, the July 22nd Pokémon Presents presentation will offer more information about the game, which is set to launch on October 16th.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A Release Date and July Pokémon Presents Event Announced

Since the release of Scarlet and Violet in 2022, this marks the first new mainline Pokémon title. While 2023 saw DLC updates for those games, 2024 and most of 2025 have been devoid of major Pokémon releases, a notable break from the franchise’s usual annual cadence. The delay could indicate that Game Freak is taking extra time to refine Legends: Z-A in response to the challenges faced during the launch of Scarlet and Violet. However, fan expectations remain cautious, as indicated by reactions to the game’s trailers.

Legends: Z-A is set entirely in Lumiose City, the capital of Kalos from the X and Y games, and adopts a futuristic approach. Players can interact with holographic characters and explore areas designed to coexist with wild Pokémon. The city’s advanced technology also includes a phone glider. The October 16th release date is earlier than the previously mentioned “late 2025” timeline.

It’s unusual for The Pokémon Company to provide such advance notice for a Pokémon Presents event. According to Serebii founder Joe Merrick, having two months’ notice is unprecedented. While the focus of the July 22nd presentation will likely be on Legends: Z-A, the timing aligns with the upcoming 30th anniversary of Pokémon in 2026. The original games were released in Japan in 1996, making next year a significant milestone. With Scarlet and Violet being the ninth generation, this July’s event could provide the first glimpse of the tenth generation, potentially including new games celebrating the franchise’s 30th anniversary.