Summary
The Pokémon anime demonstrates the dangers of Mega Evolution through a brutal battle that shows how the power can drive a Pokémon to attack its own trainer.
The episode reveals that Mega Evolution is a risky endeavor, even for trainers who have a deep bond with their Pokémon. It emphasizes the importance of specialized training to harness the tremendous power. The limited occurrence of Mega Evolution within the Pokémon universe is attributed to its potential threat to novice trainers, thus making it a precarious option for the majority.
Fans of Pokémon have a strong affinity for the Mega Evolution feature, but the anime highlighted the potential dangers of this transformation when Ash's Pikachu suffered a severe defeat at the hands of a newly evolved Mega Lucario. During their intense duel, the opposing Pokémon lost control and mercilessly attacked Pikachu.
The Pokémon XY anime initially introduced Mega Evolution through a series of minor appearances. However, it played a significant role in the storyline when Korrina, the gym leader of Shalour City, embarked on a quest to obtain a Mega Stone for her Lucario. Intrigued by the prospect of witnessing Lucario Mega Evolve, Ash and his friends decided to join her journey. Eventually, after locating the stone, Ash challenged Korrina to a friendly battle titled "The Aura Storm!". Little did he know, he would face much more than he expected.
Pikachu is easily defeated by Mega Lucario, but the latter doesn't cease its onslaught. Its eyes become consumed by a fiery red hue, relentlessly launching another assault, even when Ash protects Pikachu by using his own body as a shield. The situation only comes under control due to the timely intervention of Korrina's grandfather.
Mega Evolution Can Drive Pokémon Mad With Power
There were previous instances where experienced users showcased Mega Evolution, like Diantha's Gardevoir. However, Korrina's Lucario was completely unfamiliar with its power and allowed it to consume him. The battle was initially suppose to be a simple test of Lucario's new power, but it ended up being much more aggressive than necessary. This was a rare case of a Pokémon directly targeting its own trainer, indicating that Lucario was unable to think clearly while in its Mega state. Despite Korrina and Lucario's deeply rooted bond, it was evident that the power of Mega Evolution clouded Lucario's judgement.
The Pokédex entries in the Sun and Moon games suggest that Mega Evolution is a stressful experience, and certain Mega Pokémon, like Mega Salamence, have been known to pose a threat to their trainers. Although fans were not pleased with the idea that Mega Evolution in X & Y was dangerous, this episode confirms that it was always intended to be a risky endeavor for anyone other than the most skilled trainers. Interestingly, when Ash and his own Lucario attempted Mega Evolution for the first time, they did not encounter these same problems. This may be a testament to Ash's abilities as a trainer.
It is important to mention that this occurrence was not a one-time coincidence. In multiple episodes, whenever Korrina's Lucario underwent Mega Evolution, it would eventually lose control. To address this, Korrina and Lucario underwent specialized training to effectively manage this newfound power. Without guidance from an experienced Mega Evolution user, Korrina and Lucario may never have successfully gained mastery over this immense power. This elucidates why Mega Evolution is sparingly utilized in the Pokémon world. Although it offers significant power, it can easily backfire and pose a threat to inexperienced trainers, which is why most choose to avoid attempting it.