Z-A’s Nighttime Mechanics Are Missing a Key Feature

In the latest Nintendo Direct, a fresh preview of Pokémon Legends: Z-A was released, capturing fans with a blend of beloved classic Pokémon and intriguing new gameplay mechanics. While much of the presentation was devoted to exploring Lumiose City’s aerial landscapes and the return of Mega Evolutions, a particular highlight was unveiled: a mysterious nighttime tournament. As hinted in the prior trailer, this event is linked to the Rotom Phone’s nighttime activation, signaling that exciting trainer battles await players when dusk falls in the game.

This innovative twist on the traditional day-night cycle presents a competitive edge absent from other Pokémon titles, like Pokémon Legends: Arceus. In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, nighttime transforms the world into a competitive arena where players climb ranks from Z to A, relishing a battle royale atmosphere. This refreshing concept adds a new layer of challenge and excitement, although it’s evident that one key feature could further elevate this experience.

Incorporating Mega Evolutions into battles enriches the gameplay significantly, making it more dynamic and engaging, especially with the incentive of ranking up to access exclusive tournament rewards. Given that battling is a central element of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the game could greatly benefit from an online multiplayer component. By allowing players to engage in 1-on-1 trainer battles in various Lumiose City locales, the battles become more thrilling, as opponents would be real players instead of AI.

The idea of an interconnected battle arena located within Lumiose City, coupled with a PvP tournament structure, is fascinating. A ranking system mirroring the in-game rank scale, from Z to A, could offer players rewards and elevate their in-game status, providing even more motivation. While player versus player (PvP) interactions aren’t new to Pokémon, Legends: Z-A promises to reinvent the experience with its unique, real-time battle system, setting it apart from the standard VGC double battles known for static turn-based mechanics.

One standout gameplay feature in Legends: Z-A is the ability for Pokémon to dodge attacks, introducing new strategic possibilities that have not been seen before, not even in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. This dynamic battle system paves the way for potential PvP adaptations. Drawing inspiration from Elden Ring’s Nightreign, reducing the playable area on the Lumiose City map over time could add an exhilarating edge to the competition until a single player outmaneuvers all others to claim victory.

By embracing a multiplayer focus, Pokémon Legends: Z-A can effectively introduce battle royale concepts to the franchise, blending competitive elements with its innovative mechanics. While PVLA brushed upon such experiences with its trainer battles, implementing a full-fledged PvP system would be unprecedented. Although there is yet no official word on whether Pokémon Legends: Z-A will support online functionalities, the glimmer of hope remains from previous minor online interactions in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Fans are eager to see if Pokémon Legends: Z-A will deliver this potential PvP battle royale mode, promising an exciting shift in the series.