Mega Raichu’s Superman Flight Is Incredible
▼ Summary
– The author expresses immense satisfaction that Pokémon Legends: Z-A finally introduces two Mega Evolution forms for Raichu, a Pokémon they feel has historically been overlooked.
– They specifically favor Mega Raichu X, which has a unique flying animation reminiscent of Superman, a feature they find highly appealing.
– This flying capability provides a practical battle advantage, allowing Mega Raichu X to attack aerial targets and potentially interact with the environment in new ways.
– The author speculates that if future games grant Mega Raichu X the Levitate ability, it would eliminate its sole Ground-type weakness, making it a formidable competitive threat.
– Despite some criticism that the designs resemble Pikachu too closely, the author appreciates the homage to Raichu’s evolutionary lineage and is delighted with both new forms.
After spending several hours exploring the new content in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the hunt for two specific items became my personal mission. Finding Raichunite X and Raichunite Y was a priority, as these Mega Stones finally grant a long-awaited transformation to a frequently overlooked Pokémon. For years, fans of the original electric mouse felt sidelined, watching Pikachu receive exclusive forms and moves while Raichu gathered dust. The announcement of not one, but two Mega Evolutions for Raichu felt like a monumental correction, a proper celebration of a classic creature. Choosing the X form pre-launch was an easy decision, and seeing it in action has completely validated that choice, this Mega Raichu soars through the air with a heroic flair that is impossible to ignore.
The history of Raichu is marked by a curious neglect. When Mega Evolution debuted in Pokémon X and Y, Raichu was conspicuously absent from the roster. This pattern continued as Pikachu received spotlight features like a Gigantamax form and special Z-Moves. Raichu’s sole regional variant, the Alolan form, is a psychic-type departure that, while interesting, always felt like a different character altogether. The introduction of Mega Raichu X and Y finally gives the original its deserved moment, allowing it to step out of its pre-evolution’s long shadow with powerful new identities.
What truly captivates about Mega Raichu X is its dynamic flight animation. The Pokédex suggests electromagnetic repulsion from its twin tails enables this levitation. Many imagined a more static, vertical hovering pose. The reality is far more dramatic and unexpectedly charming. Mega Raichu X flies with one arm thrust forward, mirroring the iconic posture of Superman in flight. This isn’t just a visual gag; it’s a brilliantly fun character moment that injects personality into every battle. The sight of this empowered mouse racing to the rescue is endlessly entertaining and has quickly become a fan-favorite detail.
This aerial mobility translates into significant tactical advantages during gameplay. Mega Raichu X can engage airborne targets directly, allowing it to collect Mega Shards from towering structures and land physical attacks on flying opponents that would normally be out of reach. This functionality defines its role, as the X form is designed as a physical attacker, contrasting with the special attack-focused Y form. While the transformation doesn’t alter its Electric typing, many speculate it may gain the Levitate ability in future titles, which would negate its sole Ground-type weakness. This potential for a weakness-free Pokémon could make Mega Raichu X a formidable contender in competitive play, offering a unique and powerful strategic option.
Some criticism has emerged regarding the designs’ similarities to Pikachu, but this connection is precisely what makes them resonate. The visual callbacks to its evolutionary line feel like a celebration of its heritage. The Superman-style flight adds a thrilling new chapter to Raichu’s story, a perfect blend of nostalgic recognition and fresh excitement. The hope now is to see this form animated, delivering dynamic scenes of aerial combat. For the moment, players can enjoy the fantasy of having their own caped crusader, a powerful ally ready to defend Lumiose City from any threat.
(Source: Kotaku)
