Previous Legends Z-A leaks have indicated that the game will include 27 new Mega Evolutions, increasing the number of Mega Evolved forms in the franchise by over 50%. However, these new Mega Evolutions come at a cost, according to a prominent leaker.

According Pyoro, a well-known leaker with inside knowledge of Nintendo games, there will be no new Pokémon in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. This stands in firm contrast to Pokémon Legends: Arceus, which introduced seven new Pokémon species, most of which were evolutions from an existing line. Please note that "no new Pokémon" doesn't necessarily mean that the game won't feature any new regional forms, although this does mean the divergent evolution lines or convergent species of Pokémon are off the table.

Why No New Pokémon In Legends: Z-A Makes Sense

The Number of Mega Evolutions Equals The Number Of New Forms In Legends: Arceus

Since Pokémon Sun and Moon, every Pokémon game (save for the remakes Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl) has featured at least one new species of Pokémon. However, this most recent leak actually is in line with the previous Pokémon Legends: Arceus games. Including new forms, there were 27 different new kinds of Pokémon introduced in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Adding the 27 new Mega Evolutions would mean an equal number of new forms in the latest installment of the series.

There's also a marketing aspect to keep in mind. Any new Pokémon species would potentially overshadow the Mega Evolutions, which are set to be a major part of the new game. By keeping new Pokémon away from the latest game, players can instead focus on the Mega Evolution gimmick, which is in line with the last time Mega Evolution was heavily featured in a Kalos-themed Pokémon game. Keep in mind that Gen 6's Pokémon X and Y introduced the smallest generation of new Pokémon largely due to the glut of Mega Evolutions.

Our Take: Mega Evolutions Better Be Huge And Plentiful

We Hope Pokémon Legends: Z-A Doesn't Hold Back On Mega Evolutions

Opting to focus on Mega Evolutions over new Pokémon largely comes down to two things. First, Mega Evolutions can't be a late-game gimmick in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Pokémon X and Y made most Mega Evolutions unavailable until after the main storyline was completed. That can't be the case with the new game. The other is that the new Mega Evolutions better wow players, or there will be complaints that Pokémon Legends: Z-A is an underwhelming installment. Personally, I hope that the Mega Evolution gimmick is strong enough to stand on its own in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, or this game will be controversial among fans.

Source: Pyoro,SunshinTokyo/Reddit