It Sure Looks Like Pokémon Legends: Z-A is Finally Altering the Pokémon Formula

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The upcoming main Pokémon game, known as Generation 10, hasn’t been revealed to the public just yet. In its absence, players can indulge in another spin-off titled “Pokémon Legends: Z-A”. However, if you were anticipating a game similar to “Legends: Arceus”, which has earned high praise within the series, then you might find yourself taken aback. In fact, based on trailers and sneak peeks at some of its gameplay, this new Pokémon title seems poised to shake things up, as it departs from previous trends set by The Pokémon Company.

Gameplay Wrinkles Promise to Change Pokémon’s Formula

Modern Pokémon games are often criticized for being excessively tame. This is one of the main reasons why Palworld, the game that features Pokémons with weapons, was so popular among players. It offered a fresh take and presented an innovative gameplay, breaking away from the repetitive pattern of catch-battle-train-evolve that Pokémon has followed for years. This novelty even prompted Nintendo to file a lawsuit against it.

In their latest releases, Pokemon games such as Scarlet and Violet, and Legends: Arceus, have managed to introduce some fresh elements. For instance, Legends: Arceus brought in new capture methods and Alphas. Meanwhile, Scarlet and Violet opened up the world more, while maintaining the traditional aspects of catching, training, evolving, and battling with Pokemon. However, it appears that the main narrative might be shifting with Pokemon Legends: Z-A, which seems to be introducing new changes.

In Pokémon battles, rather than players directing their teams like commanders, trainers and their creatures appear to engage directly. It’s essential for players to be flexible in terms of tactics instead of relying solely on their Pokémon’s pre-set movesets. Gone are the days of repeatedly using Explosion or Hyper Beam. Instead, it’s about strategic thinking. Additionally, you can now dodge attacks, which means even your weaker or type-weak Kirlia could evade harmful moves and make a difference in the battle.

At night, it’s wise to stay indoors as the battle royale competition is underway, making it risky to venture out. This presents an opportunity to strategically ambush other trainers and climb up the rankings. The innovative aspect of this battle system, where your rank can be influenced by various activities rather than just gym battles, adds a fresh twist that has revitalized what was starting to feel stale in traditional Pokémon games.

The system hasn’t undergone significant changes over time because it’s a successful design that has stood the test of time. Despite its simplicity, it remains effective. Catching Pokémon and engaging in battles is an enjoyable experience, even after all these years. However, there were signs that people were seeking something new. Wisely, they have started investigating potential future innovations.

It Sounds Like GameFreak is Finally Listening

As a die-hard gamer, I’ve got to admit, that so-called “Pokémon clone,” which is a bit harsh and unjustified when talking about Palworld, has definitely made some waves in the gaming industry. It seems like even GameFreak and The Pokémon Company couldn’t ignore it any longer. This new monster collector on the block has finally managed to crack through the hard shell of tradition and inspired the team to try something fresh. Now, this isn’t a complete departure from the familiar formula, but based on pre-release glimpses, it looks like they might be on to something promising.

Fundamentally, the core concept of this game revolves around capturing, nurturing, and advancing Pokémon for battle. This basic premise is not likely to alter in any main Pokémon series games, which is why spin-offs like _Pokémon UNITE_ exist. However, _Legends: Z-A_ appears to introduce some innovative features within this established framework.

Until October, when the game is released, it remains uncertain whether they’ve made significant changes or if those changes are effective. It’s possible that the game will turn out to be a disappointment, offering nothing fresh but instead maintaining the same tedious and predictable style as previous games in the series. However, with its novel appearance, fans should be getting more and more excited for something different. For now, let’s wait and see.

Pokemon Legends: Z-A will release on October 16th for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.

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2025-08-23 23:41