Summary

• Fans are excited for new and returning Pokemon in Pokemon Legends: Z-A, especially Charizard.
• Speculations about new versions of old favorites like Charizard are sparking debate among fans.
• The safest choice for Charizard may be a new Mega Evolution in Pokemon Legends: Z-A due to potential fan backlash for convergent species or Paradox forms.

Pokemon Legends: Z-A has fans discussing the many possibilities for new and returning Pokemon, and as usual, Charizard is the center of many arguments. As Pokemon experiments with giving new versions to old favorites, fans are wondering which, if any, new versions might be on the table for Charizard in Pokemon Legends: Z-A.

As the first sequel in the Legends subseries of Pokemon games, players aren’t certain what to expect in Pokemon Legends Z-A. Legends: Arceus can provide some clues by looking at which Pokemon returned and what new forms they were given, but because Legends: Z-A looks to have such a different setting, it’s unclear how this game will tackle new forms. After the introduction of convergent evolutions in Generation 9, some fans would like to see more classic Pokemon receive this treatment. But between convergent, regional, and ancient and future paradox forms, it’s unclear what route the developers are likely to take. But, when it comes to fan favorites like the Charmander line, a convergent evolution may not be in the cards.

The Case for Charizard’s Return in Legends: Z-A

Without confirmation that the Charmander line will be returning at all, it may seem early to begin arguing about Charizard’s fate, but it seems a safe bet that the line will be in the game in some form. Considered one of the most popular Pokemon, it would seem a waste not to let Charizard return again for Legends: Z-A. Taking into consideration the presence of the original starter trio in Pokemon X and Y, it’s natural that these lines may have been introduced into the wild areas of the Kalos region. So, with Legends: Z-A believed to take place in the future, it’s a logical jump to believe that Kalos now has wild Charmander roaming around somewhere. With Mega Evolutions set to make their return as well, it’s likely that all Pokemon capable of Mega-Evolving will show up in Legends: Z-A.

What New Form Charizard May Receive

So, with Charizard’s appearance all but assured, it has fans questioning what type of new form it will receive. The idea of a convergent Charmander line seems natural. After all, the concept was just recently introduced, but it does raise some problems. Convergent Pokemon like Wiglett and Toedscool are similar to their original versions, but distinctly different Pokemon. With that in mind, it wouldn't be impossible for some fans to be upset if a Pokemon similar to Charizard showed up instead of the one that players are used to. Some are hoping to see Charmander as a starter in Legends: Z-A, but this presents a similar issue. In Legends: Arceus, the starters each received new versions of their final evolutions, and designing a brand new Charizard comes with some hazards.

Any new Charizard designs would be likely scrutinized by the fanbase, and if the end product risks causing an uproar in the Pokemon community regardless of how it's done. For this reason, it feels like the safest choice would be to give Charizard a new Mega Evolution, if anything at all. The return of the X and Y mechanic has been teased, and new Mega Evolutions are expected. Charizard has already received two Mega Evolutions, one for Pokemon X, and one for Pokemon Y. With some believing that Legends: Z-A represents a Pokemon Z, which fans wanted but never received, it would be the perfect opportunity to introduce a third mega evolution for what would have been the third game in that line.

Players will have to wait until next year to find out how the Charmander line is handled in Legends: Z-A, but as such a popular Pokemon, it’s unlikely that there won’t be extra attention thrust upon it. With the time-traveling nature of the Pokemon Legends series, it’s even plausible that Charizard could receive Paradox forms, although they were met with a mixed reception from fans. Pokemon Legends: Z-A has plenty of potential, and whatever form Charizard may take, players are likely eager to see that potential realized.