Pokémon Legends Z-A Review: Real-Time Battles Redefine the Series in 2025

Pokémon Legends Z-A, released on October 16, 2025, marks a bold new chapter for the franchise. It reimagines the classic formula with real-time battles, a single-city setting in Lumiose City, and a renewed focus on strategic action. Critics and fans alike are weighing in on how this ambitious title stacks up, with early reviews calling it one of the most experimental Pokémon games to date.

The latest entry departs from tradition by focusing entirely on one massive urban hub rather than an expansive region. It also ditches turn-based combat for a real-time system, making battles faster and more dynamic. These changes have sparked discussion among long-time fans about whether this is the future direction of the Pokémon series.

Pokémon Legends Z-A Review — Core Changes and First Impressions

The most striking change in Pokémon Legends Z-A is its real-time battle system. Moves now work on cooldowns, and player positioning plays a significant role. This creates more fluid and engaging combat, offering a fresh layer of depth compared to previous turn-based titles. Fans have described the experience as more intense and skill-driven, especially during boss battles and raid-style encounters.

Set exclusively in Lumiose City, the game transforms the iconic Kalos capital into a sprawling open-world playground. Players can explore rooftops, underground networks, and distinct “wild zones” within the city. While some reviewers have praised the tight focus and vertical exploration, others have noted a lack of variety compared to the sprawling regions of earlier Pokémon games.

Performance has also seen a boost, especially on the newer Nintendo Switch 2. The game runs at a smooth 60 frames per second, with enhanced lighting, draw distance, and character models. On the original Switch, performance remains stable but capped at lower frame rates. Despite these improvements, critics have pointed out that the overall graphical leap is modest compared to other major releases in 2025.

Another highlight is the return of Mega Evolutions, which appear in new large-scale battles. Players face off against Mega-evolved Pokémon in challenging encounters that require quick reflexes and strategic thinking. These battles have been described as a standout feature, blending nostalgic elements with the new real-time mechanics.

Fan Reactions and the Future of the Pokémon Franchise

The shift to a single-city environment has divided opinion. Some players appreciate the concentrated world design, which allows for deeper storytelling and a more immersive urban experience. Others miss the traditional journey across diverse landscapes, calling Lumiose City’s scope too limited for a mainline entry.

Critics generally agree that Pokémon Legends Z-A is a bold step forward. Many applaud Game Freak for experimenting with real-time action and creating a more challenging combat system. However, some have expressed concerns about the pacing of exploration and the lack of content outside the city.

Despite mixed feelings on certain design choices, the game’s Metacritic score currently sits at around 80, signaling “generally favorable” reviews. Most agree that Pokémon Legends Z-A successfully pushes the series into new territory while honoring its roots, particularly through its battle mechanics and emphasis on Mega Evolutions.

In short, Pokémon Legends Z-A is both a risk and a reinvention. Its real-time combat, condensed world, and strategic layers represent a major evolution for the series. For players seeking something fresh and fast-paced, this entry is a must-play. For those who prefer traditional region-spanning adventures, it may feel like a departure — but one that sets the stage for Pokémon’s next era.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is new in Pokémon Legends Z-A?

The game introduces real-time battles with cooldown-based moves, a single-city open world in Lumiose City, and large-scale Mega Evolution battles.

Q2: Is Pokémon Legends Z-A open-world?

Yes, but the open world is focused entirely within Lumiose City, which includes multiple vertical levels, wild zones, and underground areas.

Q3: How does it perform on Nintendo Switch 2?

On Switch 2, the game runs at 60 fps with improved visuals and smoother performance, while still running well on the original Switch at lower frame rates.

Q4: Are Mega Evolutions included?

Yes, Mega Evolutions return as part of major battle events, offering some of the game’s most challenging and visually striking encounters.

Q5: What are critics saying about Pokémon Legends Z-A?

Early reviews are generally favorable, with praise for the new battle system and criticism focused on the limited scope of the city setting.