5 Pokémon Games Worth Revisiting While Waiting for Pokémon Legends Z‑A
Hello fellow gamers! The announcement of Pokémon Legends: Z‑A has reignited excitement among fans around the world. Set in Lumiose City, this upcoming title is expected to reinvent the Pokémon experience once again.
While waiting for this exciting new chapter to drop, why not revisit some older games that tie into its themes, systems, or storyline? Today, let’s take a walk down memory lane with 5 classic Pokémon titles that are not only fun to play again, but also help you better understand the evolving Pokémon universe before jumping back in.
1. Pokémon X & Y
These were the first mainline Pokémon games to fully embrace 3D graphics, introducing us to the Kalos region, inspired by France. At the heart of Kalos is the bustling Lumiose City—the very same city returning in Z‑A.
X & Y also introduced Mega Evolution, a game-changing mechanic that pushed certain Pokémon beyond their limits both in form and strength. If you want to experience the origins of Lumiose and Mega Evolution, this is the game to return to.
2. Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire
Want to dive deeper into Mega Evolution? ORAS is your go-to. As enhanced remakes of Ruby and Sapphire, these games elevate the Hoenn region with vibrant visuals and a richer story.
The post-game content is particularly impressive, offering legendary Pokémon hunts and the unforgettable experience of soaring through the skies on Latios or Latias. It’s an essential revisit for those wanting the full Mega Evolution experience.
3. Pokémon Sun & Moon
Set in the Alola region, inspired by the Hawaiian islands, this game flipped the traditional formula. Gone were the standard gyms, replaced by Island Trials that added fresh challenges.
This title also introduced Alolan Forms, offering creative new spins on familiar Pokémon. With a deep and emotional storyline, Sun & Moon is perfect for players who want to explore how far the series can evolve—both in theme and gameplay.
4. Pokémon Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon
Often seen as upgraded versions of Sun & Moon, these entries go even further. The story expands significantly, featuring the unforgettable Team Rainbow Rocket—a mash-up of legendary villains from past games.
You’ll also find improved post-game activities and deeper battle mechanics. If you’re craving a more detailed and content-rich experience, these games are well worth your time.
5. Pokémon Sword & Shield
These games ushered in the modern era of Pokémon on the Nintendo Switch, introducing the Galar region along with dynamic battle systems like Dynamax and Gigantamax.
More importantly, Sword & Shield unveiled the Wild Area, a semi-open world where players could explore, catch Pokémon, and battle freely—laying the groundwork for the open-world mechanics seen in Legends: Arceus and Scarlet & Violet. This is the game that kickstarted a new era for the franchise.
Final Thought
Revisiting these five Pokémon titles isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s strategic. Each game offers elements that are clearly influencing the direction of Pokémon Legends: Z‑A, from Mega Evolutions and semi-open-worlds to deeper stories and experimental formats.
Whether you’re a longtime fan seeking to relive the magic or a newcomer looking to better understand the series before diving into Z‑A, these games offer essential context—and a whole lot of fun. In short: going back will move you forward.
