Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the upcoming Game Freak title set in Lumiose City from X and Y, has received an E10+ rating from the ESRB, prompting fans to speculate wildly—sometimes humorously—about its content.

Eagle-eyed fans spotted the E10+ rating on the Nintendo Switch store page, citing 'Fantasy Violence.' This is unusual for Pokémon, as mainline games typically carry an 'E for Everyone' rating, making the shift noteworthy.

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The E10+ rating has fueled a mix of serious and playful theories. Some fans jokingly wonder if Game Freak introduced darker elements, like Pokémon-related violence or even a gunplay feature. Others, on Reddit, humorously propose scenarios like being ambushed by a gang of Scrafty in Lumiose’s alleys.

“Game Freak’s getting bold,” Reddit user RynnHamHam posted. “This isn’t your toddler’s Pokémon anymore.”

Jokes also swirl around AZ, a character tied to the darker lore of Pokémon X and Y’s Kalos region, who’s set to return in Legends: Z-A.

More grounded theories suggest the rating could stem from slightly edgier dialogue, a Game Center-style minigame, or a focus on Lumiose’s grittier side.

The ESRB’s 'Fantasy Violence' note likely holds the key. The rating aligns with Pokkén Tournament DX, another Pokémon title rated E10+ for similar reasons. Real-time combat in Legends: Z-A, where attacks visibly connect, might explain the bump.

As of now, the ESRB site offers no further details on Pokémon Legends: Z-A, leaving room for speculation until more is revealed.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A is set to launch on Nintendo Switch in late 2025.