"Pokemon: Legends Z-A" is Several Steps Forward, Several Steps Back | Video Games | Roger Ebert

"The Pokemon series has been in need of serious evolution recently. 2022's "Pokemon Legends: Arceus" switched up the traditional Pokemon RPG formula by introducing real-time combat elements, a semi-open world, and a new way of story progression. It was a breath of fresh air for the franchise that had a stagnating turn-based battle system. Whereas "Arceus" was a prequel to the Pokemon Diamond and Pearl games, the newest entry "Pokemon Legends: Z-A" is a sequel to the "Pokemon X and Y" ones."

"Pokemon Legends: Z-A takes place five years after the events of the "Pokemon X and Y" versions. Lumiose City is currently going under a redevelopment plan, and that has caused the rise of Rogue Mega Evolutions, where certain Pokemon are forced to undergo further changes to make them even stronger. Players must uncover the mysteries behind the Rogue Mega Evolutions while also climbing the ranks of the Z-A Royale, a Pokemon battling tournament."

Pokemon Legends: Z-A is a sequel to Pokemon X and Y set five years later in Lumiose City during redevelopment. Rogue Mega Evolutions emerge, forcing certain Pokemon to undergo stronger transformations. Players investigate the Rogue Mega Evolutions while competing in the Z-A Royale tournament where the winner receives a single granted wish. The game improves the battle system over Legends: Arceus and runs exceptionally well on Nintendo Switch 2. Exploration feels bland and many presentation elements, particularly graphics, are lacking on other platforms. The game omits voice acting, creating jarring silent NPC dialogue despite character exertion and environmental sounds.

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