Pokémon Legends: Z-A Switch 1 Vs Switch 2 Performance—Which Version Should You Buy?

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Pokémon Legends: Z-A will be available on both the original Nintendo Switch and the new Nintendo Switch 2, making it playable across both consoles.

Okay, everyone’s hyped about the new Pokémon and the Mega Evolutions, which is totally understandable! But honestly, what I’m *really* curious about is how well this game actually *runs* on the Switch. That’s always a big deal with these games, and I’m hoping it’s smooth sailing this time around.

This article explains the performance differences between the Switch 1 and Switch 2 versions of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and helps you decide which one is right for you.

What’s Different in Pokémon Legends: Z-A Switch 1 and Switch 2?

Pokémon Legends: Z-A on the newer Switch offers improved performance compared to the original Switch version, with a smoother framerate and sharper resolution. However, the gameplay and content are identical across both versions.

Games like Pokémon Legends: Arceus and Pokémon Scarlet and Violet had performance problems on the original Switch. The new Switch 2 is more powerful, which should allow Game Freak to create better-performing games and take full advantage of the upgraded hardware.

Should You Buy the Switch 1 or Switch 2 Version of Pokémon Legends: Z-A?

The version of Pokémon Legends: Z-A you should buy comes down to your situation.

Look, if you’ve still got the original Switch, definitely get the version made for it! But just because you have the newer Switch doesn’t automatically mean you *need* to upgrade to the new version – it’s not a sure thing.

The new Nintendo Switch 2 will work with most games made for the original Switch, including Pokémon Legends: Z-A. The Switch 2 version of the game costs $10 more to account for improved performance. If you’re looking to save money, you can buy the game for the original Switch now and upgrade to the Switch 2 version digitally later through the Nintendo eShop.

Okay, so the new Switch 2 *is* more powerful than the original, but honestly, I think a lot of people might not notice a huge difference in everyday playing. I’m sure if you put them side-by-side, you’d see it, but if you’re just playing on one or the other, it might be pretty subtle.

In short, Pokémon Legends: Z-A will run best on the Switch 2. But if you’re looking to save money, the version for the original Switch will still let you play the full game, and any performance difference on a Switch 2 would likely be very small.

In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, certain powerful Mega Evolutions can only be unlocked by battling other players online. Here’s a look at the Mega Evolutions that have been revealed so far.

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2025-10-07 05:18