Pokémon Legends: Z-A looks like it could be the best game of this franchise, at least on Nintendo Switch. The brand-new battle system has a lot of fans talking, with a major focus on placement, timing, and movement.
Since Z-A doesn’t have a release date yet, outside of the 2025 release window, I should probably start finishing Pokémon Legends: Arceus before the new game comes out.
Arceus is the first Legends game in what is presumably a new series for this franchise and it redefined some of the franchise’s core aspects. The main gameplay loop focused on catching Pokémon in order to fill out the very first Pokedex. Catching a Pokémon once isn’t enough either, as fans also have to fill out the dex by beating them in battles with their weakness type or seeing them do certain moves.
It might not sound too exciting but this is a pretty innovative way to get players to explore the area, find more Pokémon, and get them on the Pokedex. Once players get into the groove it's really addictive stuff and players will fill up their dex before they know it. Granted, some of these critters can be difficult to find but just explore everything and you’ll be fine.
What’s really cool about Pokémon Legends: Arceus are the modes of transportation available. Throughout your journey, various legendary Pokémon will increase your movement options in the game’s various open areas. Aside from faster traversal, players will also be able to sniff for more treasure and even glide around mountains, it’s pretty great.
So, why haven’t I beaten Arceus yet? Honestly, the main gameplay loop isn’t compelling enough for me.
As much as I enjoy catching Pokémon and filling up the dex, the lack of more trainer battles in the game made me feel bored. To be fair, I know that there are a decent amount of story-mandated battles, and more trainer battles were added as post-game content. It’s also worth noting that the game is more focused on catching than battling, but I prefer a nice balance.
Despite all of its flaws, I think Pokémon Scarlet and Violet gave me a better balance of open-area exploration and trainer battles. While the game is a lot uglier and can barely run at 30 FPS, the right amount of catching and fighting was enough for me to finish it.
Maybe I should be more patient though. Pokémon Legends: Arceus is clearly a quality game with a lot of heart put into it. Hopefully, Legends: Z-A focusing more on battles is my speed, but I should give Arceus a second chance.