Mega Dragonite in Pokemon Legends: Z-A Is a Bad Sign For New Mega Evolutions

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The expected launch of Pokemon Legends: Z-A is approaching quickly, and with limited previews and promotional materials, many enthusiasts are uncertain about the upcoming edition’s content. However, during the July 2025 Pokemon Presents event, a new teaser was finally unveiled, but it sparked more apprehension than anticipation due to the debut of an innovative Mega Evolution design.

In the game “Pokemon Legends: Z-A,” we find ourselves in the Kalos region, more specifically Lumiose City. One of the thrilling aspects when revisiting Generation 6 is Mega Evolution. This unique feature was the starting point for advanced evolution and attack mechanisms in later regions, and it remains one of the most beloved aspects even after over a decade.

Fans have expressed concerns about the game “Legends: Z-A” being limited to a single city, given that it’s quite different from “Legends: Arceus“. However, excitement for potential new Mega Evolutions is growing as we approach the October 16th release date.

Unfortunately, this excitement has been shattered following the reveal of Mega Dragonite.

Mega Dragonite Is Not The Design Fans Had Hoped For

During this past week’s Pokemon Presents Livestream, some fresh insights concerning the characters, town layout, and combat mechanics were unveiled in the newly revealed trailers. The grand entrance of Mega Dragonite was intended to be the crowning touch, but its design fell far short of fans’ expectations.

As a gamer, I’d rephrase it like this: In the latest update, my beloved Dragonite has undergone a dramatic transformation. Instead of sporting wings on its back, it now sports them atop its head, giving it an entirely new look. A small horn adorns its forehead, and a massive orb graces the tip of its extended tail. Apart from these changes, Mega Dragonite remains the same formidable Dragonite I know and love. However, the design seems to be attempting to incorporate elements from its early evolution, Dragonair, but somehow it’s not quite gelling with the overall aesthetic.

Mega Evolution is praised for enhancing the initial forms of Stage One and Two Pokemon with creative designs. Mega Gardevoir’s dress spins elegantly, Mega Altaria boasts additional cloud-like wings, and Mega Lucario sports a whirlwind of colors and mystical accents resembling a dark legend. However, the new design for Mega Dragonite does not meet fan expectations as expressed in the comments section of the trailer’s social media post.

One player has stated, “What has Pokémon become?!” while another added, “Wings on the head??”

The numerous critical remarks were laden with bewilderment and irritation among fans, as one commented, “That’s essentially the most effortless design imaginable. Incredible!

Mega Dragonite’s Terrible Design Could Be Bad News for Legends: Z-A

Mega Dragonite just dropped

— Pokémon (@Pokemon) July 22, 2025

It seems that Mega Dragonite’s underwhelming response might indicate more than just a poor design choice. The unveiling has suggested that some Pokémon will join the list of those capable of Mega Evolution, and it’s possible that many others are still to come. If their designs resemble Dragonite’s, it seems unlikely any of them would be worth investing time in training or maintaining on a team.

At the heart of Legends: Z-A, having Mega Evolution might prematurely seal the fate of a game that has already left some skeptical. Though gathering past Megas may initially excite fans of X & Y, it may not sustain player interest in the long run.

It’s not only the design that poses issues; even from the initial trailers, it appears that Pokemon Legends: Z-A has struggled with lighting and character models. The previews to date have showcased harsh lighting and designs that seem vague or lack clarity and detail. Similarly to Scarlet & Violet, this results in a budget-like appearance for the entire game, an impression not improved by additional difficulties such as Mega Dragonite.

Although the day-night cycle in Legends: Z-A appears intriguing, and revisiting a cherished location promises thrill for longtime enthusiasts, there are several warning signs suggesting the game might end up in the company of unplayable titles like Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl. It’s disheartening to notice such a lack of innovative ideas in a feature that has been hailed as the pinnacle of design within the franchise.

It’s hoped that The Pokemon Company will consider early feedback regarding Mega Dragonite’s design before its release. This could mean fewer designs may turn out to be overly awkward or unpopular. Unfortunately, due to the way trailers and social media teasers are used to maintain game secrecy, Pokemon fans often won’t know what they’re purchasing or the game’s quality until they start playing it on their Nintendo Switch after launch. This is a disappointing situation, and one that’s as unpleasant as Mega Dragonite’s design.

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2025-07-25 20:40