Secure Your Copy: Pokémon Legends: Z-A Preorder Details
As the highly anticipated launch of Pokémon Legends: Z-A approaches this Thursday, major retailers are rolling out exciting incentives. For a limited time, you can grab a special Pokémon-themed decal set at Target if you purchase the game by Sunday, October 19. GameStop is offering an exclusive tote bag, but this particular bonus is reserved for those who preordered and picked up the game during the midnight launch event. Even without a unique physical bonus, you’ll still receive the valuable in-game item pack with any physical or digital preorder of Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
Unfortunately, some retailer-specific preorder bonuses, like an oversized desk mat from Best Buy and a mystery pin of the game’s logo or starter Pokémon from Walmart, are now sold out as of October 14. These popular giveaways were announced over the summer, so it’s not surprising they were claimed quickly by eager fans.
For those planning to upgrade their console, a Nintendo Switch 2 console bundle, which includes a digital copy of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, is available for $500. This bundle is currently in stock at Walmart, Target, and Best Buy, and will launch on October 16, coinciding with the game’s release.
What’s Included with Your Preorder?
Every preorder for Pokémon Legends: Z-A comes with a handy set of in-game items to help you on your journey:
- 20x Super Potion
- 5x Revive
- 3x Full Heal
- 1 Rare Candy
The Nintendo Switch 2 version of Pokémon Legends: Z-A is priced at $70. It was available for preorder at Amazon, Target (which offered an exclusive decal set and is currently in stock), Best Buy (which had an exclusive desk mat but is now sold out), GameStop (offering an exclusive tote bag for midnight launch pickups), and Walmart (which included an exclusive pin, now sold out).
The physical edition for the original Nintendo Switch, including OLED and Lite models, is available for $60. Retailers such as Amazon, Target (with its exclusive decal set still available), and Best Buy (whose exclusive desk mat is sold out) had it listed. GameStop also offered the exclusive tote bag for midnight launches, and Walmart’s exclusive pin is sold out.
The digital edition for both Switch consoles costs $60 and can be preordered through the eShop and various major digital storefronts.
If you initially purchase the Switch edition and later decide to upgrade when you acquire a Switch 2, a $10 Upgrade Pack is conveniently available through the eShop or participating retailers.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A aims to take full advantage of the Switch 2’s advanced technology, promising smoother gameplay with improved frame rates and higher resolution. Fans are particularly keen to see this given past performance challenges in previous Pokémon titles on the original Switch hardware.
Key Features That Make Z-A Stand Out
Pokémon Legends: Z-A marks the second installment in the exciting Pokémon Legends series, taking trainers back to the beloved Kalos region – the vibrant setting first explored in the Gen 6 titles, Pokémon X and Y for the 3DS. Get ready for a fresh adventure in the bustling, metropolitan Lumiose City, a stark contrast to the sprawling wilderness of Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
Your journey will begin with a choice of three classic starter Pokémon: Chikorita, Totodile, or Tepig. The innovative, streamlined catching system introduced in Arceus makes a welcome return, allowing you to capture wild Pokémon without the need for a battle every single time.
However, Z-A introduces a significant shift in its battle mechanics. The traditional turn-based combat, a staple of both Arceus and the mainline series, is being replaced by a dynamic, strategic real-time system. You and your partner Pokémon will be able to move and strategize within a confined battle area, where positioning and precise timing will be crucial for both attacking opponents and dodging incoming assaults.
Adding to these exciting new and revamped elements, a fan-favorite feature makes a grand return after a long hiatus: Mega Evolutions! Last seen in Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu and Eevee in 2018, Mega Evolutions will temporarily transform your partner Pokémon into a super powerful version of themselves, complete with altered appearances. To unleash this power, you’ll need a Mega Ring and a Pokémon-specific Mega Stone, and only certain species are capable of undergoing Mega Evolution.
Introducing the Mega Dimension DLC
During a recent major gaming announcement event, a paid DLC for Pokémon Legends: Z-A, titled ‘Mega Dimension,’ was revealed. This exciting expansion is available for preorder at $30 and is slated for release on February 28, 2026. The storyline will delve deep into the mechanics of Mega Evolutions, with a particular focus on the fan-favorite Pokémon, Raichu, who will notably feature two Mega Evolutions in this content.
Beyond the new narrative, the Mega Dimension DLC also includes exclusive Raichu-themed Holo-X and Holo-Y Mega Evolution apparel items, which players can sport from the moment the main game launches on October 16.