Is Zeraora a legendary or mythical Pokémon?
Zeraora is unambiguously a mythical Pokémon based on its method of introduction, obscure backstory, and lack of prominence thus far in the Pokémon franchise‘s core games or anime. Let‘s closely examine what defines these special designations and the evidence supporting why experts view Zeraora as deserving this mythical status.
Distinct differences between legendary and mythical Pokémon
Legendary and mythical Pokémon originate from related in-game characterizations. But technical categorizations, introduction methods, lore integration, and obtainability draw key contrasts:
Technical definitions
- Legendaries have high base stat totals (580-780) with multiple typings, abilities, and combat movepools that cement "legendary" battling prowess
- Mythicals possess slightly lower base stats on average and less versatility in some cases, with mysterious backstories accounting more for their rarity in-game and real-life events
Introduction and availability
| Legendaries | Mythicals |
|---|---|
| Prominently featured in games through battles/story appearances when unlocked | Introduced quietly, often only obtainable for a short time through distributions |
| Readily catchable in mainline or post-game content | Historically only officially distributed by The Pokémon Company |
Lore integration and noticeability
Legendary Pokémon and their backstories generally intertwine closely with a game‘s region or central plot. Mythicals however occupy less visible roles currently, with very little revealed thus far regarding origins, powers, or purpose.
This air of mystique intentionally differentiates mythicals – making them rarest of all to maintain an aura of majesty and specialness associated with in-game events.
Key evidence qualifying Zeraora‘s mythical designation
Many fans speculatively considered Zeraora potentially "legendary" before its official debut. Upon release however, several premiere indicators cemented its mythical status:
- Exclusive one-time distributions thus far for Pokémon Ultra Sun/Ultra Moon
- Minimal dissemination of details surrounding its background story or lore origins before unveiling
- Base stat total of 600 – on lower end of legendary thresholds
- No appearances thus far in anime series or movies expanding its canon
Authoritative Pokémon databases like Serebii definitively classify Zeraora alongside other late generation mythicals like Marshadow rather than sword/shield-wielding legendaries dialga, yveltal or solgaleo.
Its publicity, debut secrecy, and lack of prominence in the Pokémon universe mirror patterns of past event-distribution mythicals.
Zeraora‘s abilities and strengths still impress despite mythical status
Make no mistake however – Zeraora‘s prowess demonstrates how some mythicals can still harness great power. As an electric mythical, Zeraora wields:
- Vicious 112 base special attack allowing fierce special sweeping
- Blinding speed thanks to base 143 speed – faster than 97.5% of all Pokémon
- Signature ability ‘Volt Absorb‘ granting handy immunity against electric moves
- Useful coverage options via Close Combat/Plasma Fists/Bulk Up
Augmented by Choice Scarf/Specs or Fightinium-Z crystals, properly supported Zeraora variants shine as dynamo late-game cleaners or wallbreakers.
Despite legendary-level attacking potential however, Zeraora‘s lore obscurity cements its mythical status.
How Zeraora relates to other mythical Pokémon
Reviewing Pokémon considered mythicals, Zeraora shares numerous commonalities in its shrouded background and unveiling:
- Mew – Mythical ancestor yet still event-exclusive like Zeraora after 25 years
- Celebi – Time-traveling catlike appearances, both shrouded in mystery
- Jirachi – Quiet event-distributions without prominent anime/game appearances
Collectors value mythicals for event-based rarity across generations. Like these contemporaries, Zeraora events will likely continue maintaining its prestige among passionate Pokémon fans.
Closing thoughts on Zeraora as generation 7‘s electric mythical
In conclusion, Zeraora currently remains firmly classified as a mythical Pokémon rather than legendary based on introduction secrecy, lack of Pokémon universe lore thus far, event-exclusive distributions, and initial obscurity surrounding its background that define other mythicals.
While its battling strengths demonstrate impressive electric attacking, sheer power alone doesn’t qualify legend status if the creature lacks prominent canonical lore or media appearances cementing broader recognition. Unless future games or anime extensively feature Zeraora however, longtime experts expect its mythical designation to endure as the franchise carefully guards mythicals‘ coveted mysterious auras.
Yet as the Pokémon universe constantly expands, potential exists for Zeraora or even newer gen 8 mythical Pokémon like Zarude to receive expanded prominence.
- Will iconic status or pivotal lore revelations shift perspectives?
- Can trademark event elusiveness and mystique instead get maintained?
As an avid lifelong Pokémon player myself, keeping pulse on fan perspectives and debate around this topic stays imperative. Zeraora captured hearts fast as a mythical thanks to unique wildcard potential competitive battlers quickly grew to love. With bated breath, I’m excited to see what comes next on the horizon for this beloved lightning beast.
