The much-anticipated July 2025 Pokémon Presents stream brought exciting updates for fans worldwide. While it may not have been the most groundbreaking showcase, it still delivered thrilling news about upcoming Pokémon games, spin-offs, and even a new animated series. Here are the biggest highlights, including fresh details on Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Pokémon Champions, and more!
Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Release Date, Gameplay, and Features
The next installment in the Pokémon Legends series, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, promises a bold new direction for the franchise. Launching on October 16, 2025, for the Nintendo Switch and the upgraded Nintendo Switch 2, this game takes place in the iconic Lumiose City from Pokémon X and Y.
Key Features:
- Dynamic Lumiose City Gameplay: Explore a living, breathing city with a day-and-night cycle that influences gameplay. By day, battle and catch Pokémon, and by night, compete in the Z-A Royale arena to climb the ranks.
- Fresh Battle System: The Z-A Royale introduces a new twist, replacing traditional gym battles with a competitive arena format.
- Mega Evolution Returns: Wild Pokémon can now Mega Evolve independently, making them powerful threats. Players can also use their own Mega Evolutions, with support from Team MZ allies. A new Mega Evolution—Mega Dragonite—was teased.
- Trainer Customization: Customize your character like never before with hairstyles, outfits, and a built-in photo mode.
- Side Missions and Hangouts: Bond with your Pokémon at hangout spots, complete side quests, and work on filling a brand-new Pokédex.
A Nintendo Switch 2 bundle, including a digital copy of the game, will also be available at launch. Pre-orders are live now.
Pokémon Champions – A New Competitive Battling Game
Pokémon Champions, a game dedicated entirely to competitive battling, is set to arrive in 2026 for the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices.
What to Expect:
- Bring Your Pokémon: Use Pokémon from Pokémon Home or choose from the game’s roster.
- Competitive Play Made Simple: Customize your team’s stats, moves, natures, and abilities without the usual grind.
- Battle Modes: Launching with single and double battles, with potential for future updates to add more formats.
- Ranked and Private Matches: Compete online in ranked battles or challenge friends in private matches.
This streamlined approach to battling is designed for fans of competitive Pokémon gameplay, making it easier than ever to jump into the action.
Pokémon Friends – A New Puzzle Game Now Available
Pokémon fans can enjoy a fresh spin-off with Pokémon Friends, a puzzle game now available on the Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.
Features:
- Over 1,200 Puzzles: Solve a variety of quick challenges and in-depth puzzles, with new ones added daily.
- Rewards and Customization: Earn plush toy versions of Pokémon and decorate your virtual plush room.
- Accessible Fun: Perfect for quick daily play or extended puzzle-solving sessions.
Download Pokémon Friends now on the Nintendo Switch eShop, iOS App Store, or Google Play Store.
Aardman Animation’s Stop-Motion Pokémon Series
One of the most surprising announcements from the Pokémon Presents stream was a new stop-motion Pokémon series created by Aardman Animation, the studio behind Wallace & Gromit.
What We Know So Far:
- Title: Pokémon Tales: The Misadventures of Sirfetch’d and Pichu.
- Setting: A region inspired by Galar, reflecting Aardman’s British roots.
- Release Date: Scheduled for 2027, with a short teaser already available.
Aardman cofounder Peter Lord expressed excitement about bringing a unique perspective to the Pokémon universe, and fans are eager to see the results.
Final Thoughts
The July 2025 Pokémon Presents stream offered plenty of exciting updates for fans of all ages. From the ambitious Pokémon Legends: Z-A to the competitive Pokémon Champions and the charming Pokémon Friends, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the announcement of Aardman Animation’s stop-motion series adds a creative twist to the Pokémon universe.
With big releases and fresh ideas on the horizon, the Pokémon franchise continues to evolve, keeping fans excited for what’s next. Which announcement are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments!
