Pokémon Legends Z-A Future DLC Could Include Awesome Mega Evolutions

Pokémon Legends Z-A is shaping up as one of the most anticipated games in the Pokémon franchise in years. Revealed on Pokémon Day 2024, the new Nintendo Switch title returns trainers to Lumiose City in a revamped Kalos region. While details remain scarce on the ground, one of the most popular questions has got the community buzzing: Could Mega-Evolution return in all its glorious form as a DLC expansion?

Here’s why it’s not only wishful thinking, but a very real possibility.

A Kalos Comeback Means Mega Evolution Is Already on the Table

Let us not forget that Mega Evolution was created in Kalos. First seen in Pokémon X and Y, this game-changing mechanic added a strategic layer that fans came to love. It gave a way for underpowered Pokémon to flourish, introduced gasp-inducing new designs, and gave a power boost without being as jarring as later mechanics like Dynamax.

With Pokémon Legends Z-A bringing us back to Lumiose City, the hub of Kalos, mega evolution is already in the region’s blood. From a lore perspective, it is completely logical. Bypassing mega evolution altogether would be akin to omitting a significant portion of Kalos’s history. And with Alpha Pokémon returning along with “Rogue Mega Pokémon”, it’s sure to be exciting seeing the potential for this game.

Pokémon Legends Games Are Known for Holding Back (Then Releasing Big)

Let’s consider the recent past of the franchise. Pokémon Legends: Arceus, when it came out, lacked Pokémon Home support and all kinds of known evolutions. However, those features were included later in the form of updates and DLC. Nintendo and Game Freak have demonstrated a clear pattern: release with the slimmed-down core experience, and then open up the universe upon release. This strategic content release creates hype, gets people back in, and lengthens the game’s lifespan.

A mega evolution DLC for Pokémon Legends Z-A would be right on par with this trend. The base game could familiarize us with the region and special mechanics, and the DLC could delve deeper into Kalos’s mega evolution past, incorporating even new mega evolutions or lore-filled missions with Mega Stones and ancient trainers.

Unused Potential in Mega Evolutions

As of now, there are 48 official mega evolutions, but there’s much potential to expand further. Community favorites like Milotic and Flygon have been speculated to receive mega evolutions for years, but nothing ever materialized. A DLC pack would be the best time to finally make those community-held wishes a reality.

Moreover, newer Pokémon not in Gen 6 have never been able to Mega Evolve. A DLC pack could introduce new mega evolutions, which would definitely excite fans and shatter competitive balance in new ways.

But there’s more! There have been leaks of new mega evolutions. This is a confirmed leak on the official r/Pokeleaks subreddit, meaning that these Pokémon shown are going to get said mega evolutions. However, no official designs have been shown, so any designs as of the posting of this are fan-made.

Lore and Storytelling Opportunities

Game Freak has been going increasingly deep into storytelling, and Mega Evolution offers a rich backstory that’s only touched upon previously. Kalos’s ancient history ties into Pokémon Legends Z-A, the ultimate tool, and the mystical energy source employed for mega evolution.

Imagine a storyline where you find missing mega stones, deal with inheritors of legendary trainers, or grapple with the ethics of using that sort of power-granting ability. A story-based DLC in the style of these features would not only contribute more to the game world, but it would also make it better.

Fans Are Asking for It (Loudly)

Come on, let’s get real here: the Pokémon fandom is not silent. Mega evolution has been a fan favorite mechanic across several fan polls. Twitter threads and Reddit are already making buzz about its return in Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

Game Freak knows how to listen when the hype is loud enough. We’ve seen them bring back features due to fan demand, think following Pokémon or regional variants. The massive popularity of mega evolution makes it a prime candidate for revival, especially when timed as a high-impact DLC release.

Monetization and Longevity

From a business standpoint, offering mega evolution as DLC makes perfect sense. A well-timed DLC has the power to revive a game six months later, make money, and generate further marketing avenues (including anime and merchandise tie-ins).

Game Freak and The Pokémon Company have a goldmine on their hands, and they know it. Relying on nostalgia and fan demand, and wrapping it around a modern game structure, is a surefire bet that Pokémon Legends Z-A will be popular far beyond launch.

Final Thoughts

A mega evolution DLC for Pokémon Legends Z-A not only exists, it’s imminent. With Kalos as the backdrop, a fanbase screaming for its return, and a franchise trend of post-launch support, all signs point to Mega Evolution roaring back into life.

As we wait for more news about Pokémon Legends Z-A from Game Freak, trainers worldwide should keep their Mega Rings close, because the comeback of nega evolution could be around the corner.