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

There are great expectations set forLegends: 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 ofPokémon Legends: Z-A’s Pokémon roster being leakedamong other details. Another significant mystery isLegends: Z-A’s planned release date, although it does seem highly likely that the game will be released at some point in 2025.

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

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

Pokémon Could Begin A Tradition Of Major Releases Bookending A Year

2022 was an incredible year forPokémon, as it wasbookended by two major releasesin the franchise.Pokémon Legends: Arceuswas released worldwide on January 28, andPokémon Scarlet and Violetlater followed on November 18. IfLegends: Z-Ais similarly released during the first quarter of 2025, thenNintendo could set up another bookended yearby subsequently releasing theGen 10Pokémongamesin 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 ofmultiple majorPokémontitles would also undoubtedly make 2025 an extremely successful year for Nintendo.This will be especially true if either of these releases accompanies thelaunch of the Nintendo Switch 2 console.

Pokémon gym leaders Olympia, Roxie, & Elesa.

The Franchise Will Continue To Grow Regardless Of Specific Release Dates

Of course, regardless of what the true release strategy for the upcomingPokémongames 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 thatLegends: Z-Awill be released after 2025, meaning thatthe upcoming year is almost guaranteed to have at least one majorPokémonrelease. Meanwhile, other titles likePokémon GOandPokémon TCG Pocketwill continue introducing new features, providing plenty of entertainment for those waiting for bothLegends: Z-Aand the Gen 10 games.

Pros & Cons Of Pokémon Gen 10 Games Having Dual-Type Gym Leaders

Pokémon’s gym leaders have always stuck to using a single type, but how would having dual-typings work in Generation 10?

It would be incredible ifPokémonwere 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 upcoming release ofLegends: Z-Aoffers the perfect opportunity to begin such a tradition, following directly in the footsteps of its predecessor. But while it is unclear when exactlyPokémon Legends: Z-Aand 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.