“Pokemon Legends: Z-A” to Release on October 16th, “Pokemon Presents” in July, New Merchandise to Celebrate!

TPCi has announced Legends: Z-A will release on Thursday, October 16th! The box art has been revealed:

The game will release after Japan's Inferno X set featuring Mega Charizard X. I previously theorized that Japan's sets will be focusing on older, more popular Mega Evolutions until the game releases:

TPCi also announced there will be a new Pokemon Presents on Tuesday, July 22nd.

Players who purchase either the physical or digital version of the game can upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition by purchasing an upgrade pack. Upgrade packs will be available on Nintendo eShop and My Nintendo Store.

Preorders for Z-A will begin on June 5th on the Nintendo eShop. As posted a few months ago, if you preorder from the Pokemon Center next month, you will receive a random Sitting Cuties plush of Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile as a gift.

The Pokemon Center will launch Mega Evolution-themed products throughout the year as part of a larger celebration highlighting "fan-favorite" Mega-Evolved Pokemon. There will be new apparel, accessories, plush, and more.

Starting today, fans can collect giant pins featuring Mega Charizard X and Mega Charizard Y, as well as apparel and accessories showcasing Mega Venusaur, Mega Gengar, Mega Lucario and more Mega-Evolved Pokemon.

Right now you can use code "megacardus" at checkout to get a Mega Evolution postcard pack.

Last August, the TCG schedule hinted that Z-A would not be coming in 2024, but either in summer or fall 2025. Pokemon is a transmedia franchise, so it's important to always analyze what the TCG is telling us about the games and vice-versa!