Get ready, Trainers! Preorders for the highly anticipated Pokémon Legends Z-A officially kick off worldwide next week, starting Monday, June 2nd, 2025. Nintendo simultaneously confirmed the rumored pricing structure for players who want to upgrade their base game to the enhanced Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
The announcement, made via the official Pokémon Twitter account (@Pokemon), sent waves of excitement through the community. Legends Z-A, a return to the beloved Kalos region (last seen in Pokémon X & Y) reimagined in the Legends series' signature action-RPG style, is slated for release in 2026.
The Switch 2 Upgrade Details
While the game will launch on the original Nintendo Switch, Nintendo confirmed players will have the option to purchase a digital upgrade unlocking the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. This enhanced version leverages the next-gen console's power for:
- Significantly improved visual fidelity: Expect higher resolutions, enhanced textures, and more detailed environments throughout Lumiose City and beyond.
- Ray tracing implementation: Bringing stunningly realistic lighting and reflections to the City of Light.
- Faster load times & smoother performance: Targeting a consistent 60fps experience.
- Potential expanded draw distances: Revealing more of Kalos's scope at once.
Crucially, Nintendo confirmed the upgrade will carry a fee. Players purchasing the standard Switch version (physical or digital) will need to pay an additional €20 / $20 / £17 (regional pricing may vary slightly) through the Nintendo eShop to access the Switch 2 Edition features.
"We believe the *Pokémon Legends Z-A - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition* offers a meaningfully enhanced experience that fully utilizes the new hardware capabilities," a Nintendo spokesperson stated. "The upgrade fee allows players who start their journey on Nintendo Switch to seamlessly transition and enjoy these benefits on Switch 2."
This confirmation follows reports earlier this week, detailed by outlets like Kotaku, regarding Game Freak and Nintendo's strategy for cross-generation titles: Pokémon Z-A's Switch 2 Upgrade Fee Confirmed, Along With Over 100 Enhanced Titles.
Preorder Bonuses & Where to Preorder
Preorders opening next week will be available at all major retailers and the Nintendo Official Online Store. While specific in-game bonuses haven't been detailed yet, early purchasers are expected to receive some form of digital incentive, potentially similar to the Hisuian Growlithe Kimono set offered for Legends: Arceus.
- Official Announcement: Pokémon Twitter (@Pokemon)
- Preorder Page (Goes Live June 2nd): Nintendo Official Store - Pokémon Legends Z-A
The Bigger Picture
The confirmation of the upgrade fee for Legends Z-A aligns with Nintendo's broader strategy for the Switch 2 launch window. As reported by GSM Arena Tech News, over 100 popular Nintendo Switch titles are slated to receive similar paid upgrade paths or dedicated "Switch 2 Edition" releases to leverage the new hardware: Over 100 Nintendo Switch Games & Apps Getting Switch 2 Enhancements. While the fee structure isn't universally popular, it offers a clear path for players invested in the current ecosystem to transition.
Mark Your Calendars!
June 2nd is the day to secure your journey back to Kalos. Whether you're sticking with the original Switch experience or planning to upgrade for the enhanced visuals and performance on Switch 2, the preorder gates open next week!
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