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How to Preload Pokemon Legends ZA (2025) Switch Guide
By: Osama
Updated On: October 11, 2025
Pokemon Legends ZA preloads are now live on Nintendo eShop, allowing you to download the game before its October 16, 2025 release. Once preloaded, you can play immediately when the game unlocks at midnight local time (9pm PDT/11pm CDT on October 15 for US players). This guide covers everything you need to know about preloading Pokemon Legends ZA on both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
Key Information Summary
Detail
Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Switch 2
File Size
4.1 GB
7.7 GB
Release Date
October 16, 2025
October 16, 2025
Preload Start
October 8, 2025
October 8, 2025
Payment Processing
7 days before release
7 days before release
Early Access
Not available
Not available
What You Need to Know Before Preloading?
Pokemon Legends ZA represents the first mainline Pokemon title to launch simultaneously on both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. The preload process is straightforward but requires careful attention to timing and storage requirements.
Contents
Important Notes:
Preloading does not provide early access to gameplay
You must have pre-ordered the digital version to access preload
Payment is processed 7 days before release (October 9, 2025)
A small update is required on release day to unlock the game
Official Preload Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Based on official Nintendo support documentation, here's the complete process for preloading Pokemon Legends ZA:
Step 1: Pre-Order the Game
Before you can preload, you must pre-order Pokemon Legends ZA:
Turn on your Nintendo Switch (either Switch 1 or Switch 2)
Navigate to Nintendo eShop from the HOME Menu
Search for "Pokemon Legends ZA" using the search bar
Select "Pre-Order Now" and complete your purchase
Step 2: Payment Processing
According to Nintendo's official policy:
Payment is processed 7 days before release (October 9, 2025)
You can use various payment methods:
Credit card or PayPal
Nintendo eShop funds
My Nintendo Gold Points
Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers (until January 30, 2026)
Step 3: Automatic Preload
Once payment is processed, the preload begins automatically:
Check your HOME Menu for the Pokemon Legends ZA icon
Ensure automatic downloads are enabled in System Settings
Verify sufficient storage space (4.1 GB for Switch, 7.7 GB for Switch 2)
Wait for download completion - you'll see a preload indicator
Step 4: Release Day Access
On October 16, 2025:
Launch the game from your HOME Menu
Download the small unlock update (required to access the game)
Start playing immediately once the update installs
File Size and Storage Requirements
The file sizes for Pokemon Legends ZA have been confirmed by multiple sources:
Nintendo Switch (Original): 4.1 GB Nintendo Switch 2: 7.7 GB
Storage Management Tips
Given these requirements, consider the following storage management strategies:
Check Available Storage
Go to System Settings → Data Management
Verify you have sufficient free space
Consider deleting unused games or applications
MicroSD Card Recommendations
Use Nintendo-approved MicroSD cards
Minimum recommended: 32GB for Switch 1, 64GB for Switch 2
Ensure proper formatting before use
File Size Context
This is the smallest mainline Pokemon game since Sun & Moon on 3DS
Significantly smaller than recent titles like Scarlet & Violet (6.8 GB)
The smaller size is due to the Lumiose City-focused setting
Platform-Specific Details
Nintendo Switch (Original)
File Size: 4.1 GB
Performance: Optimized for original hardware
Features: All game content included
Upgrade Path: Paid upgrade to Switch 2 version available
Nintendo Switch 2
File Size: 7.7 GB
Performance: Enhanced graphics and performance
Features: Same content as Switch version with visual improvements
Note: No additional gameplay features advertised for Switch 2 version
Payment Options and Pre-Order Benefits
Available Payment Methods
Credit Card/PayPal
Standard payment processing
Charged 7 days before release
Nintendo eShop Funds
Use existing account balance
Can be added via credit card or prepaid cards
My Nintendo Gold Points
Redeem points for discount (up to full purchase price)
Points applied during payment processing
Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers
Important: Vouchers will no longer be sold after January 30, 2026
Can be used for pre-orders until that date
Note: Vouchers cannot be used for Switch 2 games
Pre-Order Bonuses
Bonus download codes available after payment processing
Codes delivered via email and purchase history
Specific bonuses vary by retailer and region
Troubleshooting Common Preload Issues
Pre-Order Cancellation
If you need to cancel your pre-order:
Statutory Right: Cancel within 14 days of purchase
Voluntary Right: Cancel any time before preload begins (up to 7 days before release)
Process: Contact Nintendo Support or manage through account settings
Payment Processing Failures
Common causes and solutions:
Insufficient Funds
Ensure adequate balance before processing date
Update payment information if needed
Expired Payment Method
Update credit card information
Verify PayPal account status
Voucher Issues
Ensure voucher hasn't expired before release date
Confirm voucher eligibility for pre-orders
Download Problems
If preload doesn't start automatically:
Check Internet Connection
Ensure stable Wi-Fi connection
Test connection in System Settings
Verify Pre-Order Status
Check purchase history in Nintendo Account
Confirm payment was processed successfully
Manual Download Initiation
Visit Nintendo eShop → Your Downloads
Look for Pokemon Legends ZA in the list
Release Day Timing by Region
Understanding the exact release timing is crucial for planning your gameplay session:
Global Release Schedule
General Release: October 16, 2025, at 12:00 AM local time
United States: October 15, 2025, at 9:00 PM PDT / 11:00 PM CDT
European Union: October 16, 2025, at 12:00 AM local time
Asia-Pacific: October 16, 2025, at 12:00 AM local time
Time Zone Reference
Region
Local Time
UTC Equivalent
US East Coast
Oct 15, 11:00 PM EDT
Oct 16, 03:00 UTC
US West Coast
Oct 15, 8:00 PM PDT
Oct 16, 03:00 UTC
UK
Oct 16, 12:00 AM BST
Oct 16, 23:00 UTC (previous day)
Central Europe
Oct 16, 12:00 AM CEST
Oct 16, 22:00 UTC (previous day)
Japan
Oct 16, 12:00 AM JST
Oct 16, 15:00 UTC (previous day)
Game Features and Multiplayer Options
While preloading focuses on the download process, it's helpful to understand what you'll be accessing:
Single Player Experience
Setting: Lumiose City in the Kalos region
Story: New adventure woven by people and Pokemon together
Gameplay: Enhanced battle mechanics with Mega Evolution
Multiplayer Features
Local Wireless: 2-4 players supported
Online Play: 2-4 players supported
Features: Cooperative gameplay elements
Note: Requires Nintendo Switch Online membership for online features
Supported Play Modes
TV Mode: Play on television with connected Switch
Tabletop Mode: Play with built-in kickstand
Handheld Mode: Play on the go with attached Joy-Con
Mega Dimension DLC Information
Pokemon Legends ZA features additional downloadable content:
DLC Details
Name: Mega Dimension DLC
Availability: Separate purchase from main game
Preload: Available for preload separately
File Size: Not officially announced
Content: Additional Mega Evolution features and content
DLC Preload Process
The Mega Dimension DLC follows the same preload process as the main game:
H3: When did Pokemon Legends ZA preloads become available?
Pokemon Legends ZA preloads went live on October 8, 2025, exactly one week before payment processing begins and eight days before the official release date.
H3: Can I preload Pokemon Legends ZA without pre-ordering?
No, preloading is only available to customers who have pre-ordered the digital version of the game. Physical copy purchasers cannot preload but can install from the cartridge on release day.
H3: What happens if my pre-order payment fails?
If payment processing fails (due to insufficient funds, expired card, etc.), your pre-order will be cancelled. You can place a new pre-order or purchase the game when it releases.
H3: Can I use Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers for Pokemon Legends ZA?
Yes, but only for the Nintendo Switch version and only until January 30, 2026, when voucher sales end. Vouchers cannot be used for the Nintendo Switch 2 version.
H3: Will the preload version include all game content?
Yes, the preload downloads the complete game. However, it remains locked until release day when a small unlock update is downloaded and installed.
H3: Can I cancel my pre-order after preloading?
You can cancel up until 7 days before release using the voluntary cancellation right. After payment processing, cancellation follows standard digital purchase policies.
H3: Do I need Nintendo Switch Online for preloading?
No, Nintendo Switch Online is not required for preloading or single-player gameplay. However, it is required for online multiplayer features.
H3: What if I run out of storage space during preload?
Ensure you have sufficient storage before starting. If space becomes an issue, you'll need to free up space or use a MicroSD card before the preload can complete.
H3: Can I transfer my preload between Switch consoles?
The preload is tied to the Nintendo Account and console used for purchase. To play on a different console, you'll need to set it as your primary console or redownload.
H3: Is there early access for Pokemon Legends ZA?
No, there is no early access. Preloading only allows you to download the game early; you cannot play until the official release time in your region.
This comprehensive guide ensures you're fully prepared to preload and play Pokemon Legends ZA on launch day. For the most current information and official support, always check Nintendo's official channels and the Pokemon Legends ZA website.
Ready to explore Lumiose City? Bookmark this guide for easy reference on release day and join the community discussion on Reddit and Discord for tips and strategies from fellow trainers!
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