Recommended Free Tools
Pokémon Legends: Z-A launched on October 16, 2025, so its preload window is over. Ahead of launch, a report listed preload downloads of 4.0 GB for Nintendo Switch and 7.7 GB for Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo’s current store listing shows different figures: 6 GB and 11.3 GB, respectively. Here’s how to tell which numbers apply to your console and edition.
Which file size applies to your console?
The preload figures below are historical sizes reported before the October 2025 launch. Nintendo’s current product listing gives the figures to use when planning storage now. They come from different sources and contexts; the available information does not establish why they differ.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
![Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension DLC - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51r8yUj+syL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension DLC - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code] | $29.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
![Pokémon Legends: Z-A Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41IOdpg0EfL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Pokémon Legends: Z-A Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code] | $59.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Pokémon Legends: Z-A - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition | $65.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| Version | Reported preload size before launch | Current Nintendo listing |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch | 4.0 GB, reported by My Nintendo News on October 9, 2025 (report) | 6 GB, on Nintendo’s product listing accessed October 8, 2026 (Nintendo listing) |
| Nintendo Switch 2 | 7.7 GB, reported by My Nintendo News on October 9, 2025 (report) | 11.3 GB, on Nintendo’s product listing accessed October 8, 2026 (Nintendo listing) |
For a present-day installation, use the current listing for the version you own and leave more free storage than the listed download size. These figures do not establish the exact working space the console may need during installation.
How the preload worked before launch
Nintendo’s eShop pre-order process applies to eligible pre-orders: payment is processed no sooner than seven days before release, after which the game downloads in a non-playable state. A small update available on release day is required before you can start playing (Nintendo eShop pre-order FAQ).
#1 Best Overall
- Venture into Hyperspace Lumiose in this additional story content that can be accessed after completing the main game
- Work with the mysterious baker, Ansha, to make donuts that awaken the Mythical Pokémon Hoopa’s power and grant you and your Pokémon a variety of useful effects
- Join Team MZ and the Mega Evolution Successor, Korrina, to investigate Hyperspace Lumiose, the otherworldly home to rare and hyper-strong Pokémon
- Discover new Mega Evolutions such as Mega Raichu X, Mega Raichu Y, Mega Chimecho and Mega Baxcalibur
- Claim Holo-X and Holo-Y in-game apparel items, which you can wear as soon as you are able to customize your character’s look and outfit in the main game
Because Pokémon Legends: Z-A released on October 16, 2025, that general policy indicated a preload window no earlier than seven days before launch. It did not guarantee one exact rollout time for every region. The window is historical, not an available preload opportunity now. The game released on both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 on October 16, 2025 (The Pokémon Company announcement).
Choosing the Switch or Switch 2 version
The game is available in an original Nintendo Switch version and a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. Choose based on the console you have and whether you already own the Switch game:
Rank #2
- Your journey will take you to all manner of sights in the streets arrayed around Prism Tower, including shops, restaurants, and places called wild zones—where Pokémon roam free.
- As you catch, train, and battle Pokémon, there will be plenty of people to meet too—like AZ, the enigmatic owner of Hotel Z.
- You play on Nintendo Switch: Get the Switch version. The Switch 2 Edition is for use on Switch 2.
- You play on Switch 2 and do not own the game: You can choose the Switch 2 Edition.
- You own the Switch game and now play on Switch 2: You can keep your physical or digital Switch copy and buy the separate Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack. The base game must also be on the console as a physical or virtual game card; the upgrade pack does not replace it.
Nintendo describes the Switch 2 Edition as improving performance, resolution, and frame rates. Check Nintendo’s Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack information for the upgrade requirements.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Does Mega Dimension DLC change the file size?
Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension is separate, optional DLC compatible with both the base game and the Switch 2 Edition. Nintendo Support lists Holo-X and Holo-Y apparel as available from October 16, 2025, and additional story content—including Mega Stones for Mega Raichu X and Mega Raichu Y—from December 9, 2025 (Nintendo Support DLC information). The cited Nintendo page does not state a DLC download size, so do not add an assumed DLC amount to the base-game figures.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- [4K ULTRA HD PERFORMANCE] Protect the peace in Lumiose City in this enhanced edition for the Nintendo Switch 2 system, featuring native 4K resolution and a stable 60FPS frame rate. Experience the urban re-development plan with high-fidelity textures and advanced lighting effects centered around the iconic Prism Tower.
- [REAL-TIME BATTLE ENGINE] For the first time in the Pokémon RPG series, command your Pokémon in seamless real-time battles. Engage over 100+ unique species with zero loading transitions, utilizing an upgraded combat AI that leverages the increased processing power of the Switch 2 hardware.
- [MEGA EVOLUTION MECHANICS] Master the power of Mega Evolution to suppress rampaging Rogue Mega-Evolved Pokémon appearing across the Kalos region. This edition introduces 15+ newly discovered Mega-Evolved forms, each rendered with dynamic particle effects and exclusive Z-A signature moves for tactical depth.
- [MULTIPLAYER Z-A ROYALE] Compete in the Z-A Royale each night to test your skills against global Trainers. Supported by Nintendo Switch 2's improved low-latency wireless architecture, these competitive events allow you to climb leaderboards and unlock rare evolution stones in 20-player lobbies.
- [EXPANSIVE WILD ZONES] Explore vibrant Wild Zones where Pokémon roam free in their natural habitats, from bustling city shops to hidden restaurants. This Hong Kong physical edition is region-free and supports English, Traditional Chinese, and Japanese, featuring the enigmatic AZ and the peacekeeping Team MZ.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
