You know that feeling when your Pokémon unleashes a move that just feels… more? Like it’s got that extra oomph, that special something? In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, that extra kick often comes from something called a "Plus Move." It’s a neat mechanic that can really turn the tide in battle, and thankfully, it’s not too complicated to get the hang of.
So, how do you actually start seeing these boosted attacks? Well, the magic really begins once AZ bestows upon you the Mega Ring. This happens during a key moment in the campaign, specifically when you're tasked with facing down a Rogue Mega Evolved Absol. Once you have that Mega Ring in your possession, you'll notice something interesting happening. Both Pokémon that can Mega Evolve and those that can't will start developing moves that can become Plus Moves. Think of it as a special enhancement, allowing them to deliver a more potent version of their usual attacks, dealing significantly more damage.
But it’s not entirely automatic; there’s a little bit of player input involved, and a clear sign to look out for. After you receive the Mega Ring, you'll see messages pop up when your Pokémon level up, indicating that one of their attacks or abilities has become a Plus Move. Keep an eye out for that little '+' icon next to the move in battle. It’s your cue that this particular attack is ready to pack a bigger punch. And here's a cool detail: if your Pokémon is already Mega Evolved, you don't need to do anything extra to activate the Plus Move. It's already in its most powerful state, and the Plus Move simply enhances that further.
It’s worth noting that while Plus Moves are tied to the Mega Ring, the concept of strengthening bonds with your Pokémon is also a significant part of Legends: Z-A, particularly when it comes to evolution. Friendship, for instance, is a hidden stat that grows as you spend time with your Pokémon, use them in battles, and prevent them from fainting. You can't see the exact number, but there's a specific woman you can talk to at the Pokémon-Amie café (after completing the 'Troublesome Patrons' side mission) who can give you a good idea of your Pokémon's friendship level. She'll offer various dialogue lines that indicate how close you and your Pokémon have become, ranging from 'this poor Pokémon isn't the least bit friendly' to 'you two are fairly friendly' and even 'you really do like this Pokémon, and always keep it by your side, don't you?' Building this friendship is crucial for certain Pokémon evolutions, like Eevee or Riolu, and it's achieved through various means: keeping them in your party, using them in battles, and even hanging out at the café. While Plus Moves are about combat prowess, friendship is about the emotional connection, and both contribute to making your Pokémon the best they can be.
