A new era of Pokémon is on the horizon with the launch of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the first title from the franchise launching on Nintendo Switch 2, and we’ve got all the important multiplayer details.
Releasing on October 16, Pokémon Legends: Z-A is headlined by the return of the fan-favorite Mega Evolution mechanic, bringing back the likes of Mega Charizard and Mega Gengar, alongside new additions including Mega Victrebell and Mega Hawlucha.
While Legends: Z-A shares it’s name with Legends: Arceus, there are some major differences between the two titles, and we’ve got all the information on multiplayer in the game.
Does Pokémon Legends: Z-A Have Multiplayer?
Yes, Pokémon Legends: Z-A features multiplayer support, including a dedicated four-player competitive PvP mode.
Unlike Pokémon Legends: Arceus, which was entirely single player, Legends: Z-A has similar online support to the likes of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, including code redemption for rewards and online trading. The feature was first revealed back in August.
Therefore, it’s expected that Pokémon that require a trade to evolve will have the standard evolution method, rather than the approach in Legends: Arceus that had Link Cables and other new Evolution items available to purchase.
As part of the multiplayer offerings, Legends: Z-A has a ranked online mode, where participation is required to unlock several Mega Evolution items, and a four-player PvP mode.
Does Pokémon Legends: Z-A Have Co-Op?
It is unclear ahead of launch whether Pokémon Legends: Z-A will have any co-operative modes available, as such features have not been announced.
While online ranked battles and the 4-player PvP mode have been revealed, there are no details on any co-op features like battles to take down Rogue Mega Evolutions or Alpha Pokémon. However, trailers and gameplay footage from early play events have shown more than one player in a battle with Mega Evolved Pokémon.
At this stage, it’s unknown whether that was a subtle hint at co-op gameplay or whether it was a scene from the story of Legends: Z-A with an AI-controlled teammate.
Similarly, it’s unknown whether open-world exploration is available in multiplayer, like it was in Scarlet and Violet, or if your adventures across Lumiose City will be single-player exclusive outside of ranked battles and PvP.
What online features are you hoping to see in Pokémon Legends: Z-A? Let us know in the Insider Gaming forum.
For more Pokémon, check out all the platform details for Legends: Z-A, and take a look at the reveal of the Mega Dimension DLC.
