The release of Pokémon Legends: Z-A could easily mark the start of a new tradition for Pokémon, one which would be an endless source of excitement in years to come. Pokémon is one of the most successful franchises in the world, and every new title draws significant interest as a result. Legends: Z-A specifically is expected to follow strongly in the footsteps of Legends: Arceus, but its own legacy could have far-reaching effects for the entire brand as well.

There are great expectations set for Legends: Z-A, with many hoping it will build on the example of its predecessor to create an exceptional experience. Of course, although there is little confirmation of the game’s content at this time, the infamous Teraleak did lead to a portion of Legends: Z-A’s planned release date, although it does seem highly likely that the game will be released at some point in 2025.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A & Gen 10's Release Could Copy 2022

Pokémon Could Begin A Tradition Of Major Releases Bookending A Year

Images of female Pokémon Legends: Arceus protagonist Akari and Juliana from Pokémon Scarlet and Violet in front of backgrounds of their respective regions.

2022 was an incredible year for Pokémon, as it was bookended by two major releases in the franchise. Pokémon Legends: Arceus was released worldwide on January 28, and Pokémon Scarlet and Violet later followed on November 18. If Legends: Z-A is similarly released during the first quarter of 2025, then Nintendo could set up another bookended year by subsequently releasing the Gen 10 Pokémon games in the fourth quarter. With 2022 as a precedent, this could also firmly establish an amazing tradition for future releases, one that would help build interest in dual releases before they are even announced.

Another year like 2022 would be an amazing experience for both players and Nintendo. People around the world would have plenty of time to explore one game while simultaneously looking forward to the next big release coming in time for the holiday season. Financially speaking, the release of multiple major Pokémon titles would also undoubtedly make 2025 an extremely successful year for Nintendo. This will be especially true if either of these releases accompanies the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 console.

Pokémon Fans Have An Exciting Time Ahead Regardless

The Franchise Will Continue To Grow Regardless Of Specific Release Dates

Of course, regardless of what the true release strategy for the Pokémon games will prove to be, it is clear that fans of the franchise will have plenty to enjoy in the near future. It is extremely unlikely that Legends: Z-A will be released after 2025, meaning that the year is almost guaranteed to have at least one major Pokémon release. Meanwhile, other titles like Pokémon GO and Pokémon TCG Pocket will continue introducing new features, providing plenty of entertainment for those waiting for both Legends: Z-A and the Gen 10 games.

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It would be incredible if Pokémon were to begin a tradition of bookending years with major releases, a practice that would make any such year extremely exciting for everybody invested in the franchise. The release of Legends: Z-A offers the perfect opportunity to begin such a tradition, following directly in the footsteps of its predecessor. But while it is unclear when exactly Pokémon Legends: Z-A and the Gen 10 games will be released, and if they will follow this pattern, it is reassuring to know that they will eventually arrive on shelves regardless.

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Pokemon Legends: Z-A
Released
2025
Developer(s)
Game Freak, Creatures Inc.
Publisher(s)
Nintendo, The Pokemon Company

Franchise
Pokemon
Platform(s)
Nintendo Switch