Pokemon Legends: Z-A for Switch returns the series to Lumiose City
In celebration of Pokemon Day (the first games launched on February 27, 1996), The Pokemon Company revealed the franchise's latest Legends" entry on Tuesday. Pokemon Legends: Z-A returns the series to Lumiose City, last seen as one of the regions in Pokemon X and Y on the Nintendo 3DS. The game arrives on Switch in 2025.
Developed by Game Freak, Pokemon Legends: Z-A's trailer and press materials only provide a minimal glimpse at the upcoming title. The Pokemon Company describes it as an exciting new adventure" and an ambitious new entry" as the company tries to wrestle the narrative back from its guns-blazing off-brand counterpart Palworld. (That fast-growing title has already gotten the attention of The Pokemon Company's legal team.)
The trailer teases an urban redevelopment plan in a mysterious metro area, finally revealed as Lumiose City. Within the game world, a renovation project strives to help humans and Pokemon live together in the sprawling urban landscape. The trailer even teases Mega Evolutions, initially introduced in Pokemon X and Y.
The Pokemon Legends: Z-A trailer below - largely an extended teaser - doesn't show any gameplay footage, and its shots of Lumiose City use wireframe models, suggesting an incomplete nature (or at least surprises reserved for another day). The game will have a simultaneous global launch when it arrives next year.
Pokemon Day also saw the announcement of a new digital trading card game. Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket is a new mobile app (Android and iOS) set to arrive later this year. It will allow players to enjoy the thrill of opening booster packs and collecting cards," which will include immersive cards" and visual effects unique to the app (in addition to classic artwork). The app's trailer showcases a satisfying ripping animation when opening" the digital packs (gotta get you hooked!).
Players using the app will receive two free booster packs daily. The company hasn't officially announced the availability of additional packs through in-app purchases. However, the Pokemon Company's language describing the app as free-to-start" may provide a hint about its plans. The app will support trades and quick battles," using streamlined rules based on the card game's battle system.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/pokemon-legends-z-a-for-switch-returns-the-series-to-lumiose-city-174208223.html?src=rss