Pokémon Legends Z-A DLC Shatters Decades-Old Level Cap
A groundbreaking change is coming to the Pokémon world: the upcoming Pokémon Legends Z-A DLC will allow Pokémon to exceed the level 100 cap that has been a cornerstone of the franchise since its 1996 debut. New gameplay footage reveals Pokémon reaching levels previously unattainable, signaling a significant shift in the core mechanics of the series.
For 29 years, Pokémon have been limited to a maximum level of 100, preventing further stat gains through experience points. Trailers for the “Mega Dimension” DLC showcase wild Pokémon such as Kramor at level 120,Knogga at level 164,and Calamanero at level 170. Even trainer battles demonstrate Pokémon exceeding the traditional limit, wiht a Palimpalim reaching level 157 and boasting 451 HP.
The increased level cap appears tied to a new mechanic introduced within the DLC’s dimensional rifts, specifically an alternate version of Illumina City. Players will utilize a new character, Antja, to craft donuts from berries, with the donut’s effectiveness – and the potential level of encountered Pokémon – scaling with Antja’s “taste rank.” This suggests the higher levels might potentially be exclusive to the DLC content, though it remains unclear if the change will extend to the base game.
