Pokémon Legends Z-A

A new mainline Pokémon game released on October 16th, 2025, Pokémon Legends Z-A. This is the second game in the "legends' series of Pokémon games, which separate themselves from the traditional JRPG style the mainline Pokémon games are known for. The first "Legends" game, Legends Arceus, focused on the catching mechanic of Pokémon along with creating an open-world mission-based experience. This new game focuses on reinventing the battle system, transitioning from turn-based to real-time battles. The "Legends" games also focus on developing a previously established story in the series. This game somewhat serves as a sequel to the Pokémon X and Y games, which were released in 2013.

Polygon.com

Online perception

The game itself is interesting to talk about, but something I find more interesting is the controversy surrounding this game. Before this game's release, there was a lot of judgment about the game's graphics, with fans complaining that the Pokémon company isn't using their resources to their full potential, as they are the biggest media franchise in the world. Critics online were quick to call the company cheap and lazy, claiming they do not care for the quality of their new games because they know that whatever they put out will be bought by the fans. So both fans and critics were left waiting for the game to release to see if their fears or assumptions were correct.

The game released... and the reviews were mixed. Fans of the franchise were happy that they were able to play a new game that uses new mechanics to freshen up the game they are familiar with. Critics of the game were review bombing the game because it did not meet their standards. They complained of the graphics and the long tutorial/beginning of the game. This left reviews of the game averaging an 8/10.

Is the game amazing, or is it a disgrace to humanity?

I find this interesting because I think that there are two extremes of opinions regarding this game, and I do not see a lot of in between. And I find it interesting because I don't think the quality of the game is the reason for this. There is truth to both sides; fans will like almost anything that the company produces, and Critics will always complain about the company saying they can do more since they are the biggest media franchise. And I see both sides being true. That being said, I thought the game was quite fun, but I did think there was a point where I saw everything the game had to offer, and I moved on from it. I will say that this game is a step forward for the Pokémon company when it comes to their recent track record with their mainline games.