"Pokémon GO" has done an excellent job incorporating mainline mechanics into the core experience, introducing Mega Evolution and Dynamax into the AR environment. These features continue to freshen up the game and keep it exciting, enabling players to see new battle dynamics and gameplay aspects.
That said, while the game continues to evolve, one of the most significant features of "Pokémon Sun and Moon," Z-Moves is still missing. We might think that Niantic has time to include this in the game, but that won't likely happen anytime, and here's why.
Will 'Pokémon GO' Ever Have Z-Moves?
Z-Moves were a defining aspect of "Pokémon Sun and Moon," where trainers could unleash special, one-shot attacks using exclusive Z-Crystals. Considering that "Pokémon GO" already has limited-use mechanics like Mega Evolution, Z-Moves would be easily integrated into its battle system.
At present, "Pokémon GO" fights depend on two move types: Fast Attacks and Charged Attacks. Z-Moves might be the strong third attacking option, unlocked with a special item and a close bond to a Pokémon. This would be similar to the way Mega Evolutions need Mega Energy.
Niantic might bring Z-Crystals as obtainable items through Special Research or friend interactions. Think about it: your friend Pokémon finds a Z-Crystal on a stroll, and your ability to unleash a devastating Z-Move in battle is unlocked.
Why Z-Moves Could Be Postponed in 'Pokémon GO'
Though promising, Z-Moves are not likely to be introduced in "Pokémon GO" in the near future. Among the reasons is Niantic's interest in having updates coincide with "Pokémon Legends Z-A" and future mainline releases.
Current trends indicate that Niantic focuses on adding Pokémon and mechanics associated with new game releases.
For instance, "Pokémon Scarlet and Violet's" Paldea region was added to GO within a year, but most "Pokémon Sword and Shield" Pokémon, such as the Galar starters, were pushed to future updates. This trend shows that Niantic is playing catch-up while also staying current with the newest franchise entries.
Given that "Pokémon Legends Z-A" is slated for release this year, Niantic will instead be looking towards events surrounding that game and not bringing back Z-Moves from a previous generation. The way the company handles updates is to make it so that Z-Moves would have to be delayed until there is some space between large Pokémon releases.
The Impending Arrival of Generation 10
On top of leaving Z-Moves in the shadows, rumors imply that Pokémon Generation 10 may be here quicker than anticipated, with a possible release alongside Nintendo Switch 2. If this were true, it would add more complexity to Niantic's roadmap, pushing the company to put events promoting new Pokémon ahead of older mechanics such as Z-Moves, according to GameRant.
Dynamax took a similar postponement in "Pokémon GO" until the introduction could occur during a season lull. Should Z-Moves have the same course, fans will likely be forced to wait for the industry's calm between releases. Based on the speed of recent Pokémon game releases, that time will not come any time soon.
Will Z-Moves Ever Arrive in Pokémon GO?
While Z-Moves would be a natural fit for Pokémon GO, their arrival is subject to Niantic's priorities. With "Pokémon Legends Z-A" and perhaps Generation 10 on the horizon, Niantic is more likely to prioritize marketing tie-ins than reproaching older game mechanics.
All that being said, Z-Moves are still a much-called-for feature, and if Niantic sees the right opportunity, they might just find their way into the game someday.
Until then, players will have to remain patient and enjoy the constantly growing world of "Pokémon GO" while waiting for their turn to release these powerful moves. We never know the next direction for the game since it's currently for sale for a staggering $3.5 million.
