Pokémon Legends: Z-A is getting a release soon, and as always, the question comes up: how much is Nintendo earning from the game this time? Long answer short, a lot. Additionally, the budget of the upcoming game is lower than that of the last mainline Pokémon game (Pokémon Scarlet and Violet). Let’s discuss what new leaks have to provide.
Pokémon Is the Gift That Keeps on Giving
Recently, new leaks have surfaced around Nintendo’s budgeting for making mainline Pokémon games. It’s said that Pokémon Legends: Z-A took approximately 2 billion Yen or $13 million to make, which is surprisingly lower than Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, which approximately cost $20 million in comparison.
On the other hand, the leaked Pokémon Gen 10 game is said to have a budget of around $20 million. This is probably Ninten do’s way of keeping these games profitable even though it doesn’t sell like hotcakes. However, they actually do sell well, which is slightly concerning.
Leaked Pokemon budget information:
Pokémon Legends Z-A: 2 billion yen (approx. $13 million) Pokemon Gen 10: 3 billion yen (approx. $20 million)
For how much main Pokemon games sell on average, this is a budget designed to never have to worry about not making profit.
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For instance, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet cost around $20 million to make, and were priced at $60 per copy. As per reports from March 2025, it sold about 26.79 million copies. If the math is done right, that gives Nintendo over $1 billion in profits.
It’s safe to say, Nintendo spends dimes while making Pokémon games, but when it comes to profits, they take tenfold. So, instead of calling Super Mario the cash cow, people should take a look at the Pokémon franchise once.
Is Nintendo Being Greedy With Pokémon Legends: Z-A?
Nintendo’s tale of greed needs an introduction, and the story isn’t so different from Pokémon Legends: Z-A. It was quoted by Nintendo that they keep game prices based on the “value of the experience” to justify $80 game prices (via IGN).
However, it simply doesn’t add up if the but of Pokémon Legends: Z-A is seen. It takes about $13 million to make the game, while it’s selling for $70 per copy. In comparison, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet cost $20 million, but sold at $60.
So technically, Nintendo has reduced the budget significantly, but they made sure the game brings more money than last time. Historically speaking, Pokémon games have sold well for Nintendo for a long time, and there’s no fear or risk as such.
However, with Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the billion-dollar company is obviously being greedier than usual. But again, the next Pokémon game is getting a high budget, but it’s also expected to sell at a price of $80. So it’s just not Legends: Z-A, it’s the franchise altogether.
Do you think Nintendo is being extra greedy or just another Tuesday? Come discuss in the comments below!
