A deep dive into Pokemon Presents 2025: Pokemon Champions, Z-A and more
Pokemon Presents 2025 packed a punch with big announcements about the franchise’s future. From a new multiplayer game to the return of Mega Evolutions, Nintendo has set up an exciting year ahead.
Pokemon Champions: A cross-platform battle royale
Release date: TBA
A highlight of Pokemon Presents was the announcement of Pokemon Champions. In what seems to be a modern take on Pokemon Stadium, players can duke it out with well-known battle features like Pokémon types and moves. The game also includes integration with Pokemon HOME and allows players to battle on phones and the Nintendo Switch through a cross-play feature.
The game is currently in development, according to the website.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A: Urban exploration and Mega Evolution’s revival
Release date: Late 2025
Building on “Pokemon Legends: Arceus,” the new “Pokemon Legends: Z-A” takes players to Lumiose City. This open-world game explores how the city changes to help humans and Pokemon live together. Fans can’t wait to explore a fully realized city, a stark contrast to what the wilderness in “Arceus” brought to the table.
Pokemon Legends Z-A will also have Chikorita, Tepig, and Totodile. With this, Johto starter Cyndaquil is not in the series.
Mega Evolutions will also arrive. Speaking of—
Pokemon TCG: Mega Evolutions return with Regulation I
Release date: Est. October (Mega Evolutions)
Mega Evolutions will return to the card game, marking their comeback after nine years (that goes as far as the Sun and Moon era!). The new “I” regulation will start with trainer Pokemon cards before Mega Evolutions join later in 2025.
Pokemon previewed Mega Lucario EX and Mega Gardevoir EX cards, showing massive, tanky HP. Make no mistake, though, as a knockout is equivalent to 3 prize cards, according to their website.
Pokemon Concierge gets second season
Release Date: September 25
Netflix brings back its cozy, stop-motion series “Pokemon Concierge” for a new season on September 25. The show follows Haru, a kind resort worker who helps Pokemon guests enjoy their vacation. Each episode shows Haru solving problems and making special moments for different Pokemon.
Recent updates across Pokemon games
Beyond the major announcements, Pokemon Presents 2025 revealed exciting updates for current games in the franchise, which have already been released as of writing:
Pokemon TCG Pocket: The “Triumphant Light” expansion adds new cards and strategies to this digital card game.
Pokemon Unite: The game adds Suicune and Alolan Raichu to its roster, with Alcremie joining later.
Pokemon Sleep: Darkrai and Cresselia join the sleep-tracking app, likely connected to special events or features tied to sleep patterns.
Pokemon Cafe Remix: The game introduces apple-themed items and an event featuring Flapple and Appletun. New outfits for Sprigatito, Fuecoco, Quaxly, Pikachu, and Eevee add more customization options for your cafe. — AC Coloma, Esports Inquirer Contributor
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