Pokemon Legends Z-A previews have revealed a possible return of shiny sparkles and sound effects, a feature fans have been eager to see make a comeback.
The next mainline entry in the series, Pokemon Legends Z-A, is set to launch in October. Set entirely in Lumiose City, the game promises a reimagined look at the Kalos region while also bringing back Mega Evolutions, which haven’t appeared in the franchise for several generations.
While most coverage focused on world design and battles, one detail in particular has caught the attention of shiny hunters. The feature, which was first added in Pokemon Legends Arceus, alerts players to a shiny spawn by adding a sparkle animation and sound effect. This was missing from Pokemon Scarlet & Violet, leaving many players frustrated as shiny Pokemon could appear off screen without any indication.
Serebii report raises hopes for shiny hunters
Joe Merrick of Serebii, who is well known for his early reporting on shiny encounters, noted in his preview: “Alas, I was unable to find a Shiny Pokémon in it but have a third-hand account of it. Unfortunately I can’t confirm first hand if there are sparkles or sound but word is that we may be very happy.”
Merrick was the first to confirm the lack of shiny indicators in Scarlet & Violet when he encountered one during a preview session in 2022. That omission was one of the most criticized aspects of those games. If his latest report proves accurate, Legends Z-A will reinstate the feature that made shiny hunting more accessible and rewarding in Legends Arceus.
Pokemon Legends Z-A is scheduled to release worldwide on October 16, 2025 for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.