Since Pokemon Legends: Z-A was first announced on February 27th, 2024, there has been a steady stream of information and rumors coming out about its contents. On Pokemon Day this year, we got to see the newest trailer for the game and preview some of the game content. One of the significant pieces of news to come from this was that the Pokemon Legends Z-A will indeed include Mega Evolutions as part of the gameplay.

Mega Evolutions were first introduced to the Pokemon series as part of Generation 6 in 2013 (in Pokemon X and Pokemon Y). In that first visit to the Kalos region, Mega Evolutions were introduced to 30 species of Pokemon, with a total of 48 Mega Evolutions possible later on in the series (including two species receiving two different evolutions). The gist of Mega Evolutions is that they allow certain Pokemon to evolve into a large, extra-powerful form with supercharged abilities for a short period. This mechanic continued into Generation VII (Pokemon Sun and Moon), but Mega Evolutions have not made an appearance in the main series since that time.

That will change once Pokemon Legends: Z-A is released later in 2025. This makes sense, considering the game is returning to the Kalos region and Lumiose City. Unlike the previous iteration of Pokemon Legends, Z-A will act as a sequel to Pokemon XY, occurring in a modern period. Outside of mega evolutions, we do not know much yet about gameplay, except that it seems to feature real-time mechanics. Pokemon can move and dodge attacks, and strategic timing will be essential.

So what do we know about the Mega Evolutions, then? Well, not much. But that has not stopped rumors and leakers from running with information anyway. With a Nintendo Direct announced for March 27th, it is possible we could learn more soon. Until it airs, however, all we have is the ability to analyze some of these rumors.

Pokemon Legends: Z-A Is Expected To Add New Mega Evolutions

A famous Pokemon leaker, known previously on social media as Pyoro, seemed to drop a hint about how many new Mega Evolutions we can expect in the new game. Without outright saying it, Pyoro seemed to indicate that 27 species will receive Mega Evolutions that did not previously exist, on top of the 46 that already existed in the series. This seems like a lot! That is more than 50% of the total from the entire series, just for one game. But, if it is accurate, that is certainly an exciting development.

Being limited to so few Pokemon that can Mega Evolve makes it harder to develop unique strategies in your gameplay. By adding so many additional possible species, Pokemon Legends: Z-A could open the door for a far greater sandbox for trainers to play with. Players can build their team with many more opportunities for diversity in type, move set, and favorites. That is a good thing, as it engages the fans more and helps them feel more connected to their Pokemon.

Not every species can have a Mega Evolution, of course, given there are over 1,000 species in the game currently. Most of these include multiple levels of evolution as Pokemon level up, so it would make sense that for these, only the highest evolution would be able to Mega Evolve. That said, 73 species are a lot closer to the goal than 46 were. Of course, this is just a rumor, and while Pyoto has been accurate in the past, no one can be sure of the validity until Nintendo itself gives us a true number.

Which Species Can We Expect to Gain Mega Evolution in Pokemon Legends: Z-A?

Again, the names of the Pokemon on tap for Pokemon Legends: Z-A here are pure speculation and rumor. Leaks have been coming out over the last day from various sources, but it seems we may have some idea of the Pokemon being suggested. To be clear, these leaks have no proven validity, as they originated from 4Chan and are not necessarily connected to a proven leaker. Therefore, the purpose of this section is more for speculation and trainer reaction than any actual provable information. But that is the point of rumors, right?

The 27 leaked Pokemon for Pokemon Legends Z-A are as follows: Barbaracle, Chandelure, Chesnaught, Clefable, Delphox, Dragalge, Dragonite, Drampa, Eelektross, Emboar, Excadrill, Falinks, Feraligatr, Floette, Froslass, Greninja, Hawlucha, Malamar, Meganium, Pyroar, Scolipede, Scrafty, Skarmory, Starmie, Victreebell, Zeraora, and Zygarde. Some names in there make a lot of sense. Some of the names branch from starter Pokemon, while others are iconic Pokemon from throughout the franchise.

Some of the names on the list are less well-known. But in all honesty, that is to be expected. If they are going to diversify the pool, that means they need to cast a wide net and grab different Pokemon from all generations, all types, and all inspirations. Is the list a sure thing? It is not. So the list could see some changes, and some of the lesser-known Pokemon may ultimately fall off the list, especially if Nintendo is influenced by fan reaction. Still, there is a wide range of options in that group, that should offer something to everyone. Did your favorite make the list?

Closing Thoughts On the Pokemon Legends: Z-A Rumors

The rumors coming out for Pokemon Legends: Z-A seem to be stirring up a lot of hype in all corners of the internet. After all, Pokemon is an iconic brand and franchise, with millions of trainers escaping reality to immerse themselves in the world of trainable creatures. Everyone has a thought, and whether it is positive or tepid, the hype is real. Hopefully by the time the game releases, the game will be worth the wait. Until then, we will continue to live through leaks and the snippets of information that Nintendo and Game Freak give us and prepare for our next big Pokemon Legends adventure.