- Primary Subject: Pokemon Legends: Z-A (Base Game Version + Mega Dimension DLC)
- Key Update: The game replaces traditional turn-based Abilities with hidden "passive effects" triggered by specific moves or conditions in its new real-time battle system.
- Status: Confirmed
- Last Verified: February 20, 2026
- Quick Answer: Pokemon Legends: Z-A lacks traditional Abilities; however, select Pokemon like Aegislash and Mega Raichu X trigger "secret" passive stat boosts or form changes through signature moves.
Pokemon Legends Z-A revolutionized the way fans played Pokemon with its brand-new, dynamic battle system, but this didn't come without its own sacrifice. Yes, we started seeing our favorites duke it out on the battlefield while moving freely alongside you and executing fierce attacks in real time, but there's one thing that was taken from hardcore fans. Abilities.
Pokemon Abilities bring out extra flavor from our Pocket pals, even those deemed as simple or weak by many, thanks to having distinct skills that further enhance the Pokemon's personality. But fret not, as there are Pokemon in Legends Z-A that, despite technically not having abilities, actually have passive effects when under a certain situation or if a specific move is used.
Which Moves in Legends Z-A Secretly Have Passive Effects on Pokemon?
This list might as well be called "The List of Game Freak's Favorites" because these Pokemon are so lucky, they still get to showcase their uniqueness by triggering passive effects in battle. There's the infamous Aegislash, having the ability to change forms when a certain attack type is used, or Mega Raichu Ex, which can boost its Attack stat when Volt Tackle is used.
Want to see if your favorite made the list of very select Pokemon who secretly didn't lose their abilities in Legends Z-A? Keep reading!
Aegislash (Changes Depend on Whether It's Attacking or King's Shield)
If there was a Pokemon that fans were curious to see if it would still play the same in Legends Z-A, that would probably be Aegislash, because in earlier games, Aegislash changes forms thanks to its ability. But Legends Z-A removed abilities, so how will this work for Aegislash?
In Legends Z-A, although not explicitly an ability, Aegislash's form changes to Attack Forme when it uses an offensive move, while using King Shield will transform it into its Shield Form. Talk about a Pokemon so unique, no game mechanics (or lack thereof) will hold it back.
Mega Raichu X (Volt Tackle)
This thunder hero of a rodent made its way into the title when the Mega Dimension DLC dropped, and it may seem like a simple design upgrade, but its favorite move actually brings with it an awesome effect. Mega Raichu X is obviously an image of a superhero flying around with one arm high, and so its main focus is Physical prowess.
Upon using Volt Tackle, which is Mega Raichu X's signature move, this Mega Pokemon not only deals massive amounts of damage but also elevates its Attack stat. The mighty becomes even mightier, and frankly, Raichu deserves all the love.
Morpeko (Aura Wheel)
In past games, similar to Aegislash, Morpeko was adored by many, not only because of its adorable and epic design, but also because of its unique ability "Hunger Switch," where every turn, Morpeko transforms between Full Belly Mode and Hangry Mode, with its stats changing depending on the form.
In Pokemon Legends Z-A, since turns have been completely replaced with action-packed, dynamic battles, the Hunger Switch mechanic was tweaked quite a bit. Now, every time Morpeko uses its signature move Aura Wheel, its design changes along with its stats, too. Morpeko fans, make some nibbly noise!
The Swords of Justice (Sacred Sword)
To those unfamiliar, the Swords of Justice consist of Cobalion, Terrakion, Virizion, and Keldeo. Legends and mythical Pokemon from Generation V all share a common love for the move Sacred Sword. In past games, Sacred Sword is simply a move that comes with catching them and offers no additional effect.
But in Pokemon Legends Z-A, if any of these 4 uses Sacred Sword, they all each get a boost in the Attack and Special Attack stats. Yes, it may not be as visually revealing as Morpeko or Aegislash, but having that game code just for you is still awesome.
Mimikyu (Switched Out Without Any Damage)
Although technically not a Pokemon move but rather a tactic, this tiny detail is too special to pass up on. Mimikyu's design, heartbreaking backstory, and personality really helped it effortlessly build a fan base. However, for hardcore Pokemon gamers, it is its Disguise ability that made it a Pokemon of fine caliber.
The Disguise ability allows Mimikyu, upon being sent out with full health, to take a single damage, but relatively reduced compared to what the attack would normally deal, but again, abilities are gone in Legends Z-A. For Mimikyu? Not entirely, because despite the removal of Pokemon abilities, Mimikyu gets to experience that same skill in Z-A like any other game. You can just switch it out with full health and watch it absorb the next attack like a champ. Really, Game Freak? Favoritism isn't your best suit.
For some reason, the Pokemon company decided that some Pokemon in Legends Z-A still deserved to have abilities. They are not mentioned, nor do they have a special menu portion for them, but they're there. And hopefully, our other favorites will have theirs too.
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