Pokémon fans got more than they expected at the July 22 Pokémon Presents – the livestream packed previews, surprises, and updates across several titles. Leading the way was an extended trailer for Pokémon Legends: Z‑A, due on October 16, 2025, for Switch and Switch 2. The game reintroduces Mega Evolutions with a twist: rogue variants appearing wild across Lumiose City. Among them, Mega Dragonite emerged as a standout reveal, sparking buzz among fans.
What really stole the show, though, was DJ Pikachu. A pre-show DJ set featuring Pikachu on turntables mixed original Pokémon music with house and drum & bass elements as hype music. The character seems tied to a rhythm mini-game in Pokémon Unite, possibly extending into mobile. It was unexpected, quirky, and undeniably meme-ready.
Other announcements included Pokémon Friends – a new puzzle title available now on mobile and Switch platforms – and Pokémon Champions, a battle-focused game designed for 2026. PokéPark Kanto, a permanent amusement park based in Japan, and a new stop-motion series by Aardman Animation also got teaser details. Meanwhile titles like Pokémon Concierge, GO Fest 2025, Scarlet & Violet events, and Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution expansion also received fresh updates.
For fans craving mainline content, Legends: Z‑A offered the centerpiece reveal. For everyone else, DJ Pikachu and the new puzzle game provided a fun, light-hearted entry point. July’s Presents lacked Gen 10 reveals, but left its mark in nostalgia, innovation, and bold experimentation.
Mega Evolutions Return With a New Twist
Pokémon Legends: Z‑A marks the return of Mega Evolutions in a big way. The new mechanic goes beyond choice – wild Rogue Mega Evolutions like Mega Dragonite appear unprompted, challenging players in the open world. Combat is real-time, with placement, timing, and avoidance shaped around dynamic city streets. With over 27 Mega forms confirmed and character customization upgrades, the game expands on Arceus’s systems while setting a futuristic redevelopment tone for Kalos’ Lumiose City.
DJ Pikachu and Pokémon Unite Tie-Ins
Pikachu as DJ was more than a meme teaser in the Pokémon Presents – sources suggest it connects to an upcoming rhythmic mini-game in Pokémon Unite, potentially debuting as part of a cross-platform event. That unexpected music angle introduced a fresh layer of engagement beyond narrative and catch mechanics. Expect remixed Pokémon themes, themed cosmetics, and rhythm-based gameplay arcs lingering past the main show.
Side Titles and Franchise Expansions
Alongside mainline updates, Pokémon Presents revealed Pokémon Friends, a cozy puzzle app now available across Switch and mobile. Unique collectibles and daily brainteaser missions make it accessible to casual fans.
Coming in 2026: Pokémon Champions – a battle-focused game compatible with Pokémon Home and designed for competitive play. On the media front, a stop-motion series by Aardman Animation titled Pokémon Tales: The Misadventures of Sirfetch’d & Pichu is slated for 2027, while PokéPark Kanto theme park plans continue toward a 2026 opening.
Why This Presentation Mattered
Although Generation 10 remains under wraps, this Pokémon Presents offered clarity and forward momentum. Legends: Z‑A addresses franchise questions and brings battle mechanics into a richer setting. DJ Pikachu introduced a whimsical edge, while puzzle and animation tie‑ins broaden audience reach. Combined, the announcements reflect a brand expanding beyond core RPGs, experimenting with music, media, and casual engagement.
More Surprises Could Still Be in Store
While the confirmed announcements are already creating buzz, longtime fans know that Pokémon Presents events often come with last-minute surprises. Whether it’s a mysterious teaser, a classic remake reveal, or even an unexpected mobile spin-off, The Pokémon Company loves to keep players on their toes.
Some rumors even suggest a surprise update to Pokémon Legends or an expanded partnership with Nintendo Switch Online. With the franchise’s 30th anniversary inching closer, this could be the perfect time to drop a major reveal that sets the tone for future celebrations. Don’t blink – anything can happen when Pokémon takes the stage.
