Mon Aug 18 04:00:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**”Pokemon Legends: Z-A” Hands-On Preview: Real-Time Battles and Mega Evolutions on Nintendo Switch 2**
Anaheim, CA – Days ahead of the Pokemon World Championships, a lucky journalist secured a sneak peek at the highly anticipated “Pokemon Legends: Z-A,” the sequel to the groundbreaking “Pokemon Legends: Arceus.” The 20-minute playtest, running on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 in docked mode, revealed exciting new features and refinements to the open-world formula.
The preview showcased two distinct gameplay elements. The first half focused on the “Z-A Royale” in a sprawling city’s Battle Zone. Unlike “Arceus,” battles are seamless and real-time, demanding strategic use of Pokemon moves mapped to face buttons with individual cooldowns. Players can now use potions during battles, adding a new layer of tactical depth. By participating in this new “Z-A Royale” competition, trainers can earn tickets and medals to improve rank and earn money.
The second half featured a Mega-Evolution boss battle against a frenzied Mega Absol. Players team up with a trainer in order to defeat the Mega Absol. This encounter introduces Mega Power orbs dropped by the boss, which allow trainers to Mega-Evolve their own Pokemon for increased power, creating a fast-paced and challenging fight.
The game appears to run smoothly on the Switch 2, with improved environmental textures compared to previous Switch titles. While the demo was in docked mode, offering potential benefits from the console’s enhanced capabilities, the performance was notably stable.
“Pokemon Legends: Z-A” is slated for release on October 16th. While many questions remain about the full scope of the game, the hands-on preview promises an engaging and fast-paced experience that rewards strategic thinking and type advantages.
First Piper 