Pokémon Legends: Z-A DLC’s Grind Makes Completing the Pokédex a Chore
Completing the Pokédex in Pokémon Legends: Z‑A’s Mega Dimension DLC has proven to be an unexpectedly frustrating experience, even for a seasoned Pokémon fan. The culprit? A mechanic called Special Scans that turns the hunt for Legendary Pokémon into a tedious game of chance.
A Fan’s Hope Meets a Harsh Reality
The author, a long‑time fan of the series, was excited to reunite with Latias, a beloved Pokémon from past adventures. However, finding and catching Latias in the Mega Dimension DLC has been anything but straightforward.
What Are Special Scans?
Special Scans let players explore rare pockets of Hyperspace. These pockets can contain powerful trainers, valuable loot, and Legendary Pokémon that cannot be found elsewhere. Earning a Special Scan, however, is a grind in itself: players must complete various mini‑quests—battling trainers, capturing a set number of Pokémon, or finding loot. Each completed quest awards intel points that contribute toward a Special Scan.
The Randomness Problem
Even after investing the time to earn a Special Scan, the outcome is entirely random. Players might stumble upon a Legendary Pokémon, but they could just as easily land in a battle zone with powerful trainers or an area filled with Pokémon they’ve already caught. If a Legendary does appear, there’s no guarantee it can be captured before the time limit expires.
Personal Grind Statistics
The author has logged over 20 hours grinding in Mega Dimension, yet only two Legendary Pokémon have been found through Special Scans—and neither was Latias. This feels like a step back to the frustrating roaming encounters of older Pokémon games, which the series has largely moved away from.
Why It Feels Like a Chore
The randomness and grind of Special Scans make completing the Pokédex feel more like a chore than an accomplishment. While the DLC offers plenty of content, the grind can feel like a waste of time for players who simply want to see progress.
Conclusion
For fans eager to complete their Pokédex in Pokémon Legends: Z‑A’s Mega Dimension DLC, the journey is fraught with frustration. The Special Scans mechanic, intended to add excitement and replayability, instead turns the hunt for Legendary Pokémon into a tedious grind, shadowing the joy of reuniting with beloved Pokémon like Latias.
