Pokémon Legends: Z-A Brings Real-Time Battles and Mega Evolution to Multiplayer
During the closing ceremonies of the 2025 Pokémon World Championships, The Pokémon Company unveiled a brand-new multiplayer feature for Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Called the Z-A Battle Club, this four-player mode will challenge trainers to rack up as many knockouts as possible in three minutes, with Mega Evolution playing a central role in battles.
A Shift to Real-Time Battles
Unlike traditional turn-based mainline Pokémon games, Pokémon Legends: Z-A continues its experimental approach with real-time combat. Moves are tied to short cooldown timers rather than turn order, allowing fast-paced action and reactive strategies. The Z-A Battle Royale, a story-focused version of this system, will even serve as a replacement for Gyms in the game’s main progression.
The Z-A Battle Club Explained
The new Z-A Battle Club mode pits up to four trainers against each other in a free-for-all format. Points are awarded to the trainer who lands the final blow on an opponent’s Pokémon, and the player with the most points when time runs out is declared the winner.
Trainers can swap Pokémon mid-battle, opening up opportunities for counters and tactical switches. A short gameplay trailer from the Nintendo Switch 2 edition of Pokémon Legends: Z-A showcased just how chaotic and dynamic these battles can become.
Mega Evolution Returns with New Forms
Mega Evolution is set to be a deciding factor in the Battle Club. Classic Mega forms, such as Mega Ampharos, are returning alongside new ones, including the reveal of Mega Dragonite. Trainers can time their Mega Evolutions to unleash devastating attacks—sometimes hitting multiple opponents at once to earn extra points.
Online Play and Requirements
Participation in the Z-A Battle Club will require an active Nintendo Switch Online membership. By blending returning mechanics like Mega Evolution with brand-new multiplayer systems, Pokémon Legends: Z-A is shaping up to deliver both nostalgia and innovation for fans when it launches.
