Mega Raichu: Unveiling the New Era in Pokémon Legends: Z-A DLC, From Gorochu's Legacy to Community Backlash

Mega Raichu: Unveiling the New Era in Pokémon Legends: Z-A DLC, From Gorochu's Legacy to Community Backlash

by Drew Grant
Mega Raichu XMega Raichu Y

Chapter 1: The Grand Reveal—A Comprehensive Breakdown of Mega Raichu X & Mega Raichu Y

1.1. Pokémon Legends: Z-A & The Dawn of a DLC Era: An Overview

Pokémon Legends: Z-A (pokemon legends za), the latest installment in the Pokémon Legends series, has been a focal point of excitement since its announcement. Set to be released on October 16, 2025, on both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, the game shifts its focus from the wilderness of Hisui to the urban sprawl of Lumiose City, emphasizing a new vision of urban redevelopment where humans and Pokémon coexist.

In a move that caught the gaming world by surprise, the paid downloadable content (DLC), Pokémon Legends: Z-A Mega Dimension (pokemon legends za mega dimension), was revealed even before the game’s launch.

This DLC is described as an adventure that adds new content and an expanded story for players to experience after they complete the main game. Official sources have confirmed that the Mythical Pokémon Hoopa will play a central role in Mega Dimension, utilizing the dimensional rings on its body and horns to create spatial warps, which appear to be at the heart of the new storyline.

The pre-release DLC announcement marks a significant shift in The Pokémon Company’s strategy, and it has spurred intense debate within the community. Some fans view it as a positive sign of long-term support, while others accuse the company of “slicing up” content and selling it separately.


1.2. Official Lore & Abilities of Two New Forms

The highlight of the Mega Dimension DLC is the introduction of two brand-new Mega Evolutions for Raichu: Mega Raichu X (mega raichu x) and Mega Raichu Y (mega raichu y).

  • Mega Raichu X: Focused on defense and raw power. It uses the electromagnetic force from its two tails to float, concentrating electricity into its fists to deliver devastating blows. With high electrical output storage, it is a sturdy, defensive powerhouse.
  • Mega Raichu Y: Aggressive and fast, resembling Pikachu with Y-shaped horns. Its electricity flows in a zigzag between its tail and spiky fur, giving it burst potential and swift offensive moves.

This dual evolution mirrors the iconic Mega Charizard X and Y, adding both strategy and nostalgia.


1.3. Mega Raichu X & Y at a Glance: A Comparison Table

FeatureMega Raichu XMega Raichu Y
TypeElectricElectric
DesignResembles normal RaichuResembles Pikachu, with Y-shaped horns
Combat StyleDefensive / Power-basedOffensive / Speed-based
Key AbilitiesElectromagnetism float, high defense, electric fistsBurst power, amplified energy, excels in fast battles
AvailabilityEncountered in DLC under specific conditionsEncountered in DLC under specific conditions

Chapter 2: A Nod to History—Mega Raichu & The Gorochu Legend

2.1. Unearthing the Forgotten “Thunder God” Pokémon: Gorochu’s History

The revelation of mega raichu ties back to early Pokémon history. Originally, Raichu was planned to evolve into Gorochu, a “thunder god” Pokémon with fangs and horns. However, it was scrapped due to Game Boy cartridge limitations and the decision to cap the roster at 151 Pokémon.

Despite being cut, Gorochu became legendary among fans, representing a “lost” evolution that many hoped to see someday.


2.2. From Fan Theory to Reality: The Design Inspiration Behind Mega Raichu

Fans quickly connected Mega Raichu X and Y’s designs—fangs, horn-like shapes—to Gorochu. Many believe this is an homage, finally bringing the “thunder god” concept into canon.

Others argue the designs diverge from Gorochu concept art, and the resemblance is coincidental. Regardless, Mega Raichu X and Y fulfill a long-time fan wish and highlight The Pokémon Company’s smart use of nostalgia and lore.


Chapter 3: The New Mega Evolution Wave: Z-A Battle Club & The New Lineup

3.1. The Return of Mega Evolution & The Shift in Acquisition

Mega Evolution returns with a twist—integrated into the Z-A Battle Club competitive mode.

  • Mega Stones for Mega Chesnaught, Mega Delphox, and Mega Greninja are earned through ranked PvP battles.
  • This is a departure from single-player acquisition, pushing competitive engagement.

While hardcore fans welcome this, casual players criticize it as “forced PvP.”


3.2. A Full Roster of New Mega Evolutions

PokémonTypeHow to Obtain
Mega Raichu XElectricDLC Mega Dimension
Mega Raichu YElectricDLC Mega Dimension
Mega ChesnaughtGrass/FightingRanked Battle Reward
Mega DelphoxFire/PsychicRanked Battle Reward
Mega GreninjaWater/DarkRanked Battle Reward
Mega MalamarDark/PsychicRevealed in news
Mega DragoniteDragon/FlyingRevealed in news
Mega VictreebelGrass/PoisonRevealed in news

Chapter 4: The Community Storm: DLC Controversy & Fan Reaction

4.1. Unreleased Game, Announce DLC: The Center of the Controversy

Announcing DLC before the base game’s release sparked massive backlash. Fans accused the company of greed, citing the $29.99 DLC price on top of the full game cost.

This echoes past controversies: Dexit in Sword & Shield, bugs in Scarlet & Violet, and ongoing concerns about trust.


4.2. A Clash of Perspectives: Positive & Negative Reactions

  • Negative: Many denounce the strategy as anti-consumer, demanding DLC content be included in the main game.
  • Positive: Others welcome early DLC as long-term support, keeping the game alive beyond release.
  • Resigned Acceptance: Some dislike the model but admit Pokémon’s brand power ensures strong sales anyway.

Chapter 5: Summary & Outlook: The Future of Mega Raichu

5.1. From Fan Dreams to Official Reality

For years, fans dreamed of Mega Raichu, creating Fakemon and concept art online. Its official reveal validates this demand, showing The Pokémon Company listens to its community while driving hype.


5.2. The Potential and Future of Pokémon Legends: Z-A

Pokémon Legends: Z-A and its Mega Dimension DLC signify a turning point:

  • Past: referencing Gorochu’s lost history.
  • Present: expanding gameplay with Mega Raichu X & Y.
  • Future: live-service content and competitive integration.

Despite controversy, this approach positions Pokémon as a continuously evolving franchise, ensuring its dominance in years to come.