Pokémon Legends Z-A Expansion Reveals Mega Raichu Forms Ahead of Release

Pokémon Legends: Z-A is still weeks away from release, yet Nintendo has already set the stage for an expansion that has stirred excitement and controversy in equal measure. During the latest Nintendo Direct, the company revealed a surprise teaser for Pokémon Legends: Z-A: Mega Dimension, a DLC add-on that introduces not one, but two brand-new Mega Evolutions for Raichu. Fans will get to see Mega Raichu X and Mega Raichu Y, each boasting distinct visual flourishes – X with its lightning-bolt tail stylized to form the letter itself, and Y marked by antler-like arcs of energy branching above its head.

The trailer even hinted at Hoopa’s dimensional meddling, suggesting that the narrative will tie heavily into alternate realities.

What makes this reveal especially contentious is the timing. Pre-orders for the DLC went live on the Nintendo eShop the same day as the announcement, weeks before the base game even launches on October 16, 2025. Early buyers will unlock exclusive apparel items, though the actual story expansion is scheduled to arrive later. To many, this feels like Nintendo is dangling content that arguably could have been included in the main game itself.

Raichu’s sudden spotlight marks a bold move. The Pokémon has historically lived in Pikachu’s shadow, but now it is being elevated alongside other heavy-hitters gaining Mega forms in Z-A, such as Dragonite, Malamar, and Victreebel. Additional footage during the Direct also showcased new Mega Evolutions for the Kalos starters – Chesnaught, Delphox, and Greninja – underscoring how central this mechanic will be to the game’s meta and storyline.

Still, the decision to announce premium DLC so early has left a bitter aftertaste among fans. Some argue it sets a precedent for selling an unfinished game, while others point out the steep costs. With base prices already high and expansion pricing on top, players in some regions may end up paying the equivalent of well over $100 USD. Critics say this risks alienating long-time Pokémon enthusiasts, who expect the sense of discovery and completeness to come standard with the launch.

Beyond Pokémon, Nintendo’s showcase was packed with reveals across its biggest franchises – from new Mario adventures to Fire Emblem and a quirky new life-sim called Pokémon Pokopia. Yet the biggest talking point of the day remains Mega Raichu, not just because it’s an unexpected twist for a long-overlooked Pokémon, but because it reignites the debate over whether modern games are being sliced up for profit before fans even touch the main experience.