We recently got an exciting glimpse of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the latest installment in Game Freak's Legends series, set in the vibrant Lumiose City from Pokémon X and Y. The game has already sparked considerable interest, not least because it has received an E10+ rating from the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB), specifically for 'Fantasy Violence.' This rating has set off a flurry of speculation among fans, ranging from the serious to the delightfully absurd.
The E10+ rating, listed on the Nintendo Switch store page, marks a departure from the usual 'E for Everyone' ratings that mainline Pokémon games typically receive. This shift has fans buzzing with theories about what could be different in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Some humorous speculations include the possibility of dialogue involving Pokémon causing harm to humans or even the introduction of gunplay mechanics. Reddit user RynnHamHam humorously remarked, "Ohhhh boy, Game Freak is taking off the little kiddie gloves. This ain’t your kindergartener’s Pokémon game."
The character AZ, who has a significant and darker backstory in Pokémon X and Y, is set to return in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. This has led to further speculation about how his story might influence the game's tone and content, potentially contributing to the E10+ rating.
More grounded theories suggest that the game might include slightly more mature language, such as additional uses of the word "crap," or feature a Game Center-style minigame. The darker aspects of Lumiose City could also be more prominently featured.
My personal view is that the 'Fantasy Violence' cited by the ESRB likely stems from the real-time battle elements showcased in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. These elements, where Pokémon more visibly engage in combat, could be the reason for the slightly higher rating, similar to what was seen in Pokkén Tournament DX, another Pokémon game rated E10+ for 'Fantasy Violence.'
As of now, there's no detailed listing for Pokémon Legends: Z-A on the ESRB website, leaving us with more questions than answers. However, the speculation is part of the fun, and we'll have to wait until the game's late 2025 release on Nintendo Switch to see exactly what Game Freak has in store for us.
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