Fans of the Pokémon franchise are discovering that Pokémon Legends: Z-A will not feature Pokémon Abilities, much like its predecessor, Pokémon Legends: Arceus. While the franchise has long used Abilities to add depth and individuality to its monster-catching mechanics, this core feature appears to be missing from the upcoming spin-off.
Abilities Removed from Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Introduced in Pokémon Ruby & Sapphire, Abilities have been a key feature in most Pokémon games, offering passive effects that enhance battles and exploration. These range from combat-oriented boosts like Levitate and Intimidate to out-of-battle perks like Pickup and Flame Body. Some Pokémon also have Hidden Abilities, which are often highly sought after for competitive play. However, Pokémon Legends: Z-A is seemingly ditching this mechanic.
Reports suggest that the game’s starter Pokémon—Chikorita, Tepig, and Totodile—have no listed Abilities, leading many to believe that the game will follow Legends: Arceus in removing them entirely. This aligns with Arceus’ decision to scrap traditional battle mechanics in favor of the Strong and Agile styles.
A Major Shift in Battle Mechanics
The absence of Abilities coincides with a radical shift in how battles will play out in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Unlike previous entries, the game will feature real-time combat, allowing players and their Pokémon to move freely and dodge attacks on the battlefield.
Additionally, the game is bringing back Mega Evolution, a fan-favorite mechanic absent from mainline games since Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon. Several Mega Evolutions have already been confirmed, including Mega Gardevoir and Mega Absol, reigniting excitement among longtime fans.
New Details Emerge on Pokémon Legends: Z-A
The Pokémon Company recently unveiled a deeper look at Pokémon Legends: Z-A during the latest Pokémon Presents showcase. The event introduced key characters, including the return of AZ, a central figure from Pokémon X & Y.
The trailer also showcased the sprawling, futuristic Lumiose City, which serves as the game’s hub. The city is undergoing a massive restoration project, integrating various Wild Zone habitats where Pokémon roam freely.
Expected Release and What’s Next
While Pokémon Legends: Z-A is set to launch in late 2025, an exact release date has not yet been confirmed. With its revamped combat system, open-world elements, and the return of Mega Evolution, the game is shaping up to be a bold departure from traditional Pokémon mechanics.
What do you think about the removal of Abilities? Will real-time battles make up for the change? Let us know your thoughts!
