The Pokémon Company International recently made waves during the Nintendo Direct stream by unveiling two exciting videos for the highly anticipated Pokémon Legends Z-A game. The first video showcased the return of Mega Evolutions for the beloved Pokémon X/Y starters: Chesnaught, Delphox, and Greninja. The second video introduced a new paid DLC titled Mega Dimension, which brings forth the highly awaited Mega Raichu X and Mega Raichu Y, alongside Hoopa in a pivotal role.
The Mega Dimension DLC is set to take place after the main storyline of Pokémon Legends Z-A. This expansion features Mega Stones specifically for Raichu, which players can earn as rewards from the Z-A Battle Club by climbing the ranks in online Ranked Battles. This exciting new content enriches the game experience and offers players fresh challenges to tackle.
Pokémon Legends Z-A is scheduled for release on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 on October 16. The game transports players to the vibrant Lumiose City, nestled in the Kalos region from the Pokémon X/Y games originally featured on the Nintendo 3DS. Lumiose City is currently undergoing an ambitious urban development plan aimed at achieving a beautiful coexistence between people and Pokémon.
One of the standout features of Pokémon Legends Z-A is its day/night cycle. During the day, trainers can engage in battles and capture Pokémon, aiding Mable, the acting director of the Pokémon Research Lab, in her important research. As night falls, the Z-A Royale competition takes center stage, where players can test their skills against trainers like Corbeau, the formidable boss of the Rust Syndicate.
Throughout Lumiose City, players will encounter various Wild Zones where wild Pokémon reside. The method of capturing Pokémon mirrors the gameplay style from Pokémon Legends: Arceus, allowing players to throw Pokéballs at Pokémon in the field. However, unlike its predecessor, battles in this game unfold in real-time, enabling Pokémon to dodge attacks and reposition themselves dynamically. Each move possesses unique reach and area of effect, adding a strategic layer to the gameplay.
The beloved Mega Evolutions make a triumphant return in Pokémon Legends Z-A, offering a powerful temporary boost for fully-evolved Pokémon. Players will also encounter Rogue Pokémon, wild creatures that have achieved Mega Evolution independently. Trainers can utilize their own Mega-Evolved Pokémon in battles against these formidable foes. Notable Pokémon receiving new Mega Evolutions include Dragonite, Victreebel, Hawlucha, and Malamar, along with popular starter Pokémon like Chikorita, Tepig, and Totodile.
Among the new characters introduced is the ally Urbain/Taunie. Players will also encounter AZ from Pokémon X/Y, who manages the player's hotel, along with Jett, the CEO of Quasartico Inc., overseeing the urban development project. Players can join Team MZ after receiving an invitation from Urbain/Tannie, meeting new characters like fashion designer Naveen and dancer Lida. The game also includes various outfits and a photo mode to enhance player customization.
The new Z-A Battle Club Link Battle multiplayer mode allows up to four players to engage in real-time Pokémon battles, with the objective of earning the most points by defeating other trainers' Pokémon. The unique colors in the Z-A portion of the game's logo are inspired by a legendary Pokémon from the sixth generation, Zygarde, specifically its 10% forme, which resembles a canine and is prominently featured in the game's second trailer.
Unlike its predecessor, Pokémon Legends: Arceus, which explored the history of the Sinnoh region from Pokémon Diamond/Pearl, Pokémon Legends Z-A focuses on the Kalos region from Pokémon X/Y. Pokémon Legends: Arceus launched worldwide for Switch in January 2022, immersing players in the past version of Sinnoh. Players joined the Galaxy Expedition Team's Survey Corps in Jubilife Village to explore the region while conducting Pokémon research and crafting items.
Overall, Pokémon Legends Z-A promises to deliver an engaging experience packed with nostalgia, new challenges, and a rich storyline, making it a must-play for Pokémon fans worldwide.
