Certain Mega Evolutions in Pokemon Legends: Z-A will require a Nintendo Switch Online membership and have several restrictions, making their acquisition challenging for all but the competitive players who aim to engage with the game fully.
Previous leaks and official materials from The Pokemon Company indicate that Pokemon Legends: Z-A will feature at least 26 new Mega Evolutions. Among these will be three Mega forms for the Kalos starters: Chespin, Fennekin, and Froakie, each able to evolve after reaching their normal evolutionary endpoints. The starter Mega forms, including Chesnaught, Delphox, and Greninja, were recently confirmed in a trailer aired during the Nintendo Direct on September 12.
However, obtaining their Mega forms is contingent upon having Nintendo Switch Online; specifically, players will require Mega Stones—a classic series feature available only via subscription. For players, simply signing up for a membership is only the first step. Game Freak plans to distribute these Mega Stones as rewards for Ranked Battles.
Pokemon Legends: Z-A Mega Evolutions Exclusive to Nintendo Switch Online
| Pokemon | Evolution Stone | How To Obtain |
|---|---|---|
| Mega Chesnaught | Chesnaughtite | Ranked Battles Season 1, starting Oct 16 |
| Mega Delphox | Delphoxite | Ranked Battles Season 2 |
| Mega Greninja | Greninjite | Ranked Battles Season 3 |
The Pokemon franchise has long used competitive play rewards, and Legends: Z-A will follow this, as players need to compete in various Ranked Battle seasons to gain Mega-Evolved forms for Kalos starters. The first item available will be Chesnaughtite, as confirmed by Game Freak for Season 1 rewards, kicking off once Pokemon Legends: Z-A releases on October 16.
In Pokemon Legends: Z-A, players won’t be able to hold multiple Mega Evolution stones—namely, Chesnaughtite, Delphoxite, and Greninjite—simultaneously. Additionally, it remains uncertain if the Ranked Battle stones will have repeatable rewards.
In the U.S., the Nintendo Switch Online subscription costs $3.99 per month or $19.99 annually. The Expansion Pack tier will offer extra benefits but won’t be essential for playing Pokemon Legends: Z-A online, priced at $49.99 for a single membership and an additional $30 for a family plan. Alongside Ranked Battles, Pokemon Legends: Z-A will also feature casual Link Battles reminiscent of the Gen 7’s Battle Royals.
