Filling out the Pokédex in Pokémon Legends: Z-A is one of the most rewarding challenges in the game. Not only does it give players a sense of accomplishment, but it also unlocks useful rewards and boosts your chances of encountering rare species, including Shinies. Whether you’re aiming for a full regional Pokédex or chasing the elusive shiny variants, this guide covers everything you need to know.
1. Catch Everything You See
The first rule of Pokédex completion is simple: catch as many Pokémon as possible. In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, different forms, sizes, and genders may count as unique entries or grant extra research points. Make sure to catch duplicates, as you’ll need multiple samples to fully complete certain Pokédex tasks. Early in the game, stock up on Poké Balls and Great Balls—crafting them from local materials is both efficient and cost-effective.
2. Explore Each Wild Zone Thoroughly
Each Wild Zone in the Z-A region has unique biomes with exclusive Pokémon. Day and night cycles, as well as weather conditions, affect which Pokémon appear. For example, Ghost-types and Dark-types often show up at night, while Grass and Bug-types are more common in daylight. Keep checking back under different conditions to find species you may have missed.
3. Use the Research Tasks System
Pokémon Legends: Z-A expands on the research system seen in earlier titles. Each Pokémon comes with a set of research tasks—these can include catching, defeating, feeding, or observing specific moves. Completing these tasks grants extra experience for your Pokédex progress. Aim to reach “Perfect” research levels for Pokémon you encounter often, as these boost shiny odds and contribute more to your overall completion score.
4. Trade to Fill in Gaps
Some Pokémon are exclusive to certain versions or regions, making trading essential. Utilize the in-game trading hub or link up with friends to exchange rare species. If you’re having trouble finding certain shiny variants, some players prefer to buy Shiny Pokémon Legends ZA collections to save time, though many still enjoy hunting them the traditional way for the thrill of discovery.
5. Take Advantage of Special Events
Game Freak regularly hosts limited-time events in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, where rare or event-exclusive Pokémon appear at boosted rates. Keep an eye on announcements for Community Hunts, mass outbreaks, or time-limited raids. These events are ideal for catching Pokémon that are otherwise hard to encounter.
6. Optimize Your Shiny Hunting
Once your Pokédex nears completion, Shiny hunting becomes one of the most exciting endgame goals. Completing the Pokédex rewards you with the coveted Shiny Charm, which significantly improves shiny odds. Some players also explore additional perks through special items like the za shiny bundle, which enhances shiny encounters during specific events or hunts.
7. Stay Organized
Managing your Pokédex entries can become overwhelming. Use sorting tools and filters to track missing Pokémon, mark your progress, and identify which species still need specific research tasks. Completing the Pokédex efficiently is all about balancing exploration, research, and patience.
Completing the Pokédex in Pokémon Legends: Z-A is more than just a checklist—it’s a journey through every corner of the Z-A region. From early captures to perfect research data, every step helps you appreciate the world’s diversity. Whether you’re filling your Pokédex entry by entry or hunting for Shinies with or without a za shiny bundle, persistence and curiosity are the keys to mastering this ultimate goal.