Pokémon Legends: Z-A is already shaping up to be one of the franchise’s boldest entries yet — and it’s getting even bigger. During the latest Nintendo Direct, The Pokémon Company revealed a brand-new DLC expansion for the game, which will introduce two new Mega Evolutions for Raichu, the beloved Generation 1 Electric-type.
This marks a major moment for long-time fans. Raichu has often lived in Pikachu’s shadow despite its power and personality, so giving it two exclusive Mega forms is a huge spotlight moment for the classic Pokémon. And with Z-A set in the Kalos region — the birthplace of Mega Evolution — the return of the mechanic feels like a natural fit.
Mega Dimension DLC Brings New Mega Evolutions
The expansion is officially titled the Mega Dimension DLC, and it’s set to add several new Mega Evolutions beyond Raichu’s forms. So far, Game Freak has confirmed Mega Dragonite, Mega Victreebel, and Mega Malamar, alongside the highly anticipated Mega forms for the Generation 6 starter Pokémon — Chespin, Fennekin, and Froakie.
While many of these Mega Evolutions will be available in the base game, others — including the new Raichu forms — will be exclusive to this paid DLC. It’s a move that suggests Pokémon Legends: Z-A will continue receiving post-launch support and content drops well into 2026.
Meet Mega Raichu X and Mega Raichu Y
The reveal trailer offered a first look at the two new Raichu Mega forms, dubbed Mega Raichu X and Mega Raichu Y.
- Mega Raichu X has a lighter orange colour palette and wields two crackling lightning bolt tails, emphasising speed and agility.
- Mega Raichu Y is a darker orange with jagged lightning-shaped horns protruding from its head, giving it a more aggressive silhouette.
While exact stats, typings, and abilities have yet to be revealed, their designs suggest distinct battle roles — possibly with Mega Raichu X focusing on blistering speed and Mega Raichu Y leaning into raw power. The return of form-based Mega Evolutions is reminiscent of Mega Charizard X and Y from Pokémon X and Y, which is fitting given Z-A’s Kalos setting.
Hoopa Confirmed to Play a Role
The trailer also confirmed that the Mythical Pokémon Hoopa will play a central role in the Mega Dimension storyline. Hoopa’s lore about bending space and dimensions makes it a fitting choice for a DLC seemingly centred on alternate forms and dimensions. How Hoopa connects to Raichu’s Mega Evolution remains a mystery, but it may tie into the lore behind how new Mega Stones are discovered in Z-A.
Pre-Orders and Release Date Details
A release date for the Mega Dimension DLC has not been announced yet, but pre-orders will open later today, according to the Direct presentation.
Players who pre-order the expansion will receive exclusive Holo-X and Holo-Y apparel items, which can be worn as soon as Pokémon Legends: Z-A launches on October 16, 2025. These cosmetic items are themed after the two Mega Raichu forms and are purely optional bonuses.
Switch 2 Compatibility and Enhanced Edition
While Pokémon Legends: Z-A is officially a Nintendo Switch (first-gen) game, it will be fully backward compatible on Switch 2, ensuring players can carry over their progress. Nintendo has also confirmed a special Switch 2 edition of the game featuring enhanced visuals and performance, although the DLC content will be available on both versions with no platform exclusives.
This means players won’t need to worry about missing out on any content whether they’re on the original hardware or upgrading to the new console.
The Return of Mega Evolution
Perhaps the most exciting part of this announcement is what it represents: Mega Evolution is truly back. Since debuting in 2013’s Pokémon X and Y (also set in Kalos), the feature has appeared sporadically and was absent from the mainline series for several years.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A looks set to revive and expand the system in a big way — giving classic Pokémon brand-new battle forms and re-energising competitive play. For many players, Mega Evolutions remain one of the most beloved mechanics in Pokémon history, and their return could spark a major nostalgia wave.
What’s Next
Pokémon Legends: Z-A launches October 16, and while the Mega Dimension DLC doesn’t yet have a release date, fans can expect more details in the coming months. Between the new Raichu Mega forms, Hoopa’s mysterious role, and the promise of Mega Evolutions for the Gen 6 starters, it’s clear Game Freak is aiming to make Z-A one of the most ambitious Pokémon titles yet.
TL;DR — Mega Dimension DLC Highlights
- Two new Raichu Mega Evolutions: Mega Raichu X (light, twin tails) and Mega Raichu Y (dark, lightning horns)
- Mega Dragonite, Victreebel, Malamar and Gen 6 starter Megas confirmed
- Hoopa will play a key role in the DLC story
- Pre-orders open today, release date TBA
- Includes Holo-X and Holo-Y outfit bonuses for early buyers
- Works on both Switch 1 and Switch 2 (with an enhanced edition coming to Switch 2)