Pokemon Legends: Z-A Reintroduces Move Abandoned in Scarlet and Violet

Overview

Power-Up Punch returns in Pokemon Legends: Z-A for select Pokémon to utilize in battles.
This Fighting-type move debuted in Pokemon X and Y but was absent from Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.
Players have discovered that legacy Pokémon like Chikorita can access previously unavailable moves in Pokemon Legends: Z-A.

The recent trailer released to coincide with Pokemon Day has revealed exciting news: Power-Up Punch will be making a comeback in Pokemon Legends: Z-A. After being removed from Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, the Fighting-type move will be reintroduced, allowing certain critters to enhance their combat strategies.

This announcement came during the highlights of the February 27 Pokemon Presents episode, marking the first view of Pokemon Legends: Z-A since its debut at Pokemon Day in 2024. Set as a sequel to the iconic Pokemon X and Y, trainers will have the opportunity to revisit Lumiose City, deep in the heart of the Kalos region, and assist in its transformation into a modern metropolis where Pokémon and humans coexist harmoniously. Players will also be able to select from three starter Pokémon—Chikorita, Tepig, and Totodile—as they embark on their journey through this vibrant setting, with a planned launch date in late 2025.

As devoted trainers scrutinized the extended trailer shared on social media, excitement grew over the revelation that Power-Up Punch would feature once more in the series. A prominent Pokémon news source, CentroLeaks, shared a screenshot illustrating Mega Kangaskhan during a battle, showcasing the return of Power-Up Punch. Originally introduced in Pokemon X and Y, this move boasts a base power of 40 and guarantees an increase in the user’s physical attack stat by one stage. This feature allows Fighting-type Pokémon, such as Lucario and Hitmonchan, to amplify their more powerful attacks, and Mega Evolutions, including Mega Kangaskhan, will also utilize this move. Notably, Power-Up Punch had been removed from Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, with Pokémon transferring from Pokemon Home needing to relearn this ability.

Power-Up Punch is Making a Comeback in Pokemon Legends: Z-A

Also notice Power-Up Punch is back after being cut in SV.https://t.co/ZGYRmOOtd7 — Centro LEAKS (@CentroLeaks) February 28, 2025

Additionally, Pokemon Legends: Z-A seems poised to rejuvenate older Pokémon by granting them access to new abilities previously unavailable. A closer examination of the trailer reveals that Chikorita can now employ the Fairy-type move Disarming Voice, a sound-based attack with accuracy akin to moves like Swift and Aerial Ace. This marks a significant addition, as Chikorita and its evolutions—Bayleef and Meganium—could not utilize this attack in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.

Female Protagonist in Pokemon Legends: Z-A

As the release date approaches, trainers are being granted ample time to develop theories and anticipations concerning the features of Pokemon Legends: Z-A. Only time will reveal which of these predictions will come to fruition.

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