I Need More Than Mega Reveals to Be Excited for Pokemon Legends: Z-A

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In the past, fans of Pokémon could count on a consistent format for new main series games, with occasional spin-offs offering something fresh. However, it was nearly an annual tradition to have a new Pokémon game on a primary Nintendo handheld that followed this formula. But then came Pokémon Legends: Arceus, which changed things up by introducing the first Legends-style entry. Now, we’re anticipating another shift with Pokémon Legends: Z-A, but it remains unclear what specifically defines a game as a Legends game, leaving me curious about how different this new game will truly be and how much I should look forward to it.

With the official release date of Pokemon Legends: Z-A now announced, we’ve uncovered more information about the upcoming Pokemon game. However, despite this, I find myself curious and uncertain about what the actual gaming experience of Legends Z-A will be like. The recent trailers have primarily focused on new Mega Evolution reveals, leading me to question if there’s much more to reveal.

New Mega Evolution Designs Are Fine, But We Need More

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve been eagerly anticipating the trailers for Pokemon Legends: Z-A, which have given us a glimpse into the game’s rendition of Lumiose City and introduced some intriguing characters. However, when it comes to gameplay, most of what we’ve seen so far seems to revolve around battles. The recent Switch 2 demo for this game showcased its real-time battle system, marking a significant shift from the traditional turn-based style that Pokemon is known for. Apart from these glimpses and brief peeks at the city, there’s not much more information available about the game. What we do know is that it will introduce new Mega Evolutions to the mix, which I can hardly wait to explore!

To date, we’ve been introduced to two fresh Mega designs: firstly, Mega Dragonite was unveiled during the Pokemon Presents event, followed by an enticing teaser trailer highlighting Mega Victreebel. While the trailer was entertaining, it didn’t showcase the actual gameplay. The animation took on a horror documentary aesthetic, which was engaging to watch, but left me questioning why we weren’t given a glimpse of Mega Victreebel in-game. Perhaps there are significant gameplay elements yet to be revealed, or maybe Pokemon was aiming for some fun and excitement. However, without seeing it playable in the game, a new Mega design doesn’t offer much insight.

The Pokémon Company has subtly hinted at another Mega Evolution reveal, possibly for Mega Howlucha, as suggested by their recent social media updates. While this new Mega design is intriguing, it doesn’t entirely convince me about the upcoming game, Legends Z-A. We are aware that a fresh battle mechanic and some characters from Pokémon X and Y will reappear in this latest Legends title. However, since all the action unfolds within a single city, I’m hoping for a glimpse into what my overall gameplay experience might entail.

Legends Z-A Needs To Sell Me On Its “Just One City” Model

Following the challenges faced by Pokemon Scarlet and Violet in delivering an expansive open world, it doesn’t bother me that the next Pokemon game may come with a smaller map. However, with the entire game taking place within a single city, there are difficulties to navigate, and I remain skeptical that what has been shown so far will convince me the game can pull it off successfully.

A large part of the Pokemon gaming experience involves traversing the world, discovering each new city and its residents. This could be the straightforward progression found in older games or the more open-ended approach of titles like Scarlet & Violet. When I think about Pokemon, it’s always about the journey. However, compared to other games, Pokemon Legends: Arceus offered a more limited experience. Yet, even it had a map with distinct areas for exploration. But the upcoming game, Legends: Z-A, seems to focus solely on Lumiose City. Given my feelings about how static big cities felt in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, I’m curious about the activities I can engage in within the new game.

The emphasis on the combat system and Mega evolutions has me concerned that there might not be much else to explore. Sure, we’ve glimpsed some heartwarming scenes of trainers spending time with their Pokémon at a cozy café. Additionally, the character customization seems promising as a return to form. However, when we aren’t engaged in battles using the new combat system, I wonder what other activities there will be and how the game will prevent its smaller map from feeling repetitive?

It’s plausible that The Pokémon Company is keeping gameplay details under wraps to preserve surprises until the release. If that’s true, I’m open to being amazed. However, with only a fresh battle system to grasp and some intriguing Mega Evolution designs, it’s tough to feel overly enthusiastic. Despite my desire for excitement about a new Pokémon game, I find myself more reserved due to the lack of information regarding Legends: Z-A.

There’s still a bit of waiting until Pokemon Legends: Z-A comes out in mid-October, but there could be more Mega Evolution revelations or surprises as we draw nearer to the release. However, considering that the demo pointed towards the Switch 2, I’m hoping the upcoming details about the game will persuade me enough to invest in a new console for an optimal playing experience.

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2025-08-28 15:43