Pokémon Legends: Z-A — Nintendo Switch (Original) Complete Walkthrough

Confirm the Nintendo Switch product before installing

Open Nintendo eShop on the Nintendo Switch console you will use for this playthrough and search for Pokémon Legends: Z-A. On Nintendo’s official product page, select the Nintendo Switch version rather than Nintendo Switch 2. The original product is identified as Pokémon Legends: Z-A for Nintendo Switch; Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is presented as a separate version. The official store page also displays an Upgrade Pack option for players who later use Nintendo Switch 2.

If you are buying a physical copy, check the package and game-card listing for Pokémon Legends: Z-A rather than the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition label. If the game is already installed, highlight its HOME Menu icon, press the + Button, and choose Software Information or View Product Page. Confirm that the product and system information identify the Nintendo Switch software. The Nintendo store lists the Nintendo Switch installation at approximately 6 GB, separate from the larger Nintendo Switch 2 installation.

• The selected product is Pokémon Legends: Z-A for Nintendo Switch.
• You did not select Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
• The console has enough internal or microSD storage for the approximately 6 GB installation and later updates.
• You are using the Nintendo Switch user profile that should own and play the save.

Install the software and apply the current update

Install the digital version from Nintendo eShop, or insert the physical game card. Before starting the opening missions, highlight the game icon on the HOME Menu, press the + Button or – Button, select Software Update, and choose Via the Internet. Allow the update check and installation to finish before launching the game.

Nintendo’s current support page lists Ver. 2.0.2 as the latest update, released March 18, 2026. The version available to your console can change after this guide is published, so do not treat 2.0.2 as a permanent requirement. The console’s own update result is authoritative. Apply every update offered for the Nintendo Switch software before progressing into the campaign. Nintendo states that save data remains available after updating.

The update is especially important if you intend to use online features. Nintendo states that the game’s Internet features require the update and that players using compatible online activities must use the same software version. A Nintendo Switch Online membership is also required for the game’s online features.

• Software Update reports that the game is current, or the newest offered update has installed successfully.
• The game launches without an update prompt that you postponed.
• You know the installed version shown by the HOME Menu software-information screen.
• Any other console used for online play is updated to the same version.

Verify the installed version and edition from the HOME Menu

After the update completes, highlight the game icon and press the + Button. The software menu displays the current version number beneath the software title. Use this screen to verify the update rather than relying only on the title screen or the date you installed the game.

The HOME Menu version check confirms the installed software version, while the Nintendo eShop product page confirms which product you purchased or downloaded. Use both checks when the console offers several Pokémon Legends: Z-A entries. Do not use visual quality, loading behavior, or performance as the sole test of the edition. This chapter covers the Nintendo Switch software, and the official store treats the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and Upgrade Pack as separate selections.

• The HOME Menu shows the current installed version number.
• The eShop or product-information page identifies the Nintendo Switch product.
• You have relaunched the game if the system requested a restart after updating.
• You have not assumed that a Switch 2 Edition feature is present in the Nintendo Switch software.

Launch under the intended user and configure options

Start the game using the Nintendo Switch user profile that should contain the save. Nintendo Switch save data is associated with the user profile, so do not begin under a temporary, guest, or shared profile if you plan to continue with a particular Nintendo Account or move the save to another console later.

Open the game’s Options menu as soon as it becomes available. Review the language, text, audio, camera, control, and other settings shown by your installed version. Use the labels actually present in the game rather than assuming that every option from Pokémon Legends: Arceus or another Pokémon title is included. Confirm the language before committing to long story sections, and adjust camera or control settings before entering the first real-time battles.

If the game does not expose a setting during the opening sequence, continue until the main menu or in-game Options menu becomes available and make the change there. The exact order of setup prompts can vary with the software version, so the reliable check is the displayed language and options menu, not a presumed first-boot sequence.

• The game is running under the intended Nintendo Switch user.
• The displayed language is readable for mission names, item descriptions, and battle prompts.
• Camera, audio, text, and control settings are comfortable before the first extended session.
• You have checked the in-game Options menu rather than assuming all settings are fixed at first launch.

Create the first save and confirm playable progress

Continue through the opening scenes until the game creates save data and gives you playable control. When the game provides its normal save command, use it after reaching the first playable section. Do not power off the console while a saving message is displayed.

Save data is stored in the Nintendo Switch system memory, not on the microSD card. Archiving or deleting downloaded software does not normally delete the save data, but deleting the user or save data can permanently remove progress. Keep the original save intact while troubleshooting, transferring systems, or checking DLC entitlements.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A is listed by Nintendo as unsupported for Nintendo Switch Save Data Cloud Backup. Therefore, a Nintendo Switch Online membership does not create a cloud backup for this game. Do not expect the HOME Menu Save Data Cloud screen to protect this save. For a console move, use Nintendo’s Transfer Your Save Data or system-transfer functions instead. These transfers can move saves for games that do not support cloud backup, but an overwrite or completed transfer may remove the original copy, so verify the destination before deleting or resetting the source console.

• A playable save exists under the intended user profile.
• You have performed a normal in-game save after gaining control.
• You understand that this title does not support Nintendo Switch Save Data Cloud Backup.
• You will use Nintendo’s system-transfer tools rather than treating Nintendo Switch Online as a backup for this save.

Handle the Upgrade Pack without changing the guide’s edition

If you later play on Nintendo Switch 2, the Nintendo store may present the Upgrade Pack or the separate Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. The Upgrade Pack is not required to begin or complete the original Nintendo Switch campaign. Do not purchase it merely to install a routine patch or unlock the base-game story.

Before loading your save on another console, check which HOME Menu application you are launching. If you want to remain on the original edition covered by this guide, select Pokémon Legends: Z-A for Nintendo Switch. If you buy or use the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, treat its edition-specific enhancements as outside this chapter’s scope.

Before transferring a save, close the game, update both consoles, confirm the same Nintendo Account is linked to the destination user, and use Nintendo’s official save-transfer procedure. Do not delete the original console, user, or save until the destination launches the game and the expected progress is visible.

• You know which HOME Menu icon launches the Nintendo Switch software.
• You have not mistaken the Upgrade Pack for a required story update.
• The same intended Nintendo Account is linked to the destination user if transferring the save.
• The transferred save has been checked before the original console is reset or cleared.

Open Help & Settings and confirm the available controls

Press X to open the main menu. Press L from the menu to open Help & Settings, where you can review Game Controls and adjust settings such as text speed, controller rumble, minimap rotation, camera inversion, camera sensitivity, background music, sound effects, and Pokémon cries.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A does not provide a normal in-game button-remapping screen. If you need to change a controller assignment, use the Nintendo Switch system’s Controllers and Sensors button-mapping feature instead. That is a console setting, not a Pokémon Legends: Z-A setting, so restore it afterward if you share the controller with other games.

The Nintendo Switch edition uses the same basic control layout described here. Do not look for a Switch 2-specific control mode or assume that the Switch 2 version changes the battle inputs.

• Press X and then L to inspect Help & Settings.
• Open Game Controls before entering a Wild Zone.
• Adjust camera sensitivity, inversion, and text speed before beginning serious battles.
• Use system-level button mapping only when necessary.

Learn movement, dash, roll, and camera controls

Move with the Left Stick and rotate the camera with the Right Stick. Press the Left Stick to crouch or rise. Crouching is useful when approaching Pokémon that may flee, especially when you want to throw a Poké Ball before starting a fight.

Press B to Dash. Dash is a movement action, not a toggle that permanently changes your running speed. Press Y to Roll, which gives the Trainer an emergency evasive movement. Press L to recenter the camera when your view becomes misaligned with the target.

The Trainer can be harmed during encounters, so do not stand beside an enemy and watch passively while your Pokémon attacks. Keep enough room to react to incoming attacks, and use a roll or dash to leave the danger area rather than retreating in a straight line every time.

• Practice crouching and rising with the Left Stick click.
• Use B to dash through an open area.
• Use Y to roll away from a wild Pokémon’s attack.
• Press L after deliberately turning the camera away from your travel direction.

Focus a target and issue move commands

Hold ZL to Focus on a target. While Focus is held, the four face buttons command the moves assigned to A, B, X, and Y. The move names and their current availability are shown on the battle interface, so check the display before pressing a button repeatedly.

While still holding ZL, use the Right Stick to change the focused target when more than one opponent is present. The Right Stick also rotates the camera during Focus. If the target moves behind you or leaves the useful attack angle, reposition the Trainer and reacquire the target instead of continuing to issue commands blindly.

The face buttons are not a traditional turn-based menu. Pokémon can act as soon as the relevant move is available, while you and the opposing Pokémon continue moving. A move’s reach, area of effect, and time before it takes effect all matter. Choose a move that matches the distance and begin slower attacks when the opponent is committed to another action or recovering from one.

• Hold ZL and identify the focused target.
• Use the Right Stick to switch between two nearby targets.
• Use each assigned move once during a safe encounter.
• Before every attack, check whether the target is inside the move’s reach or area.

Read cooldowns, range, and area indicators

Real-time battles do not wait for both sides to select a command. After you use a move, its availability is governed by a cooldown. While that move is unavailable, reposition, use another available move, or prepare to avoid the opponent’s next attack. Do not stand still pressing one unavailable move while an enemy closes the distance.

Moves also differ in how far they reach and how long they take to become effective. A close-range move may require your Pokémon to approach the target. A wider attack may cover an area rather than a single point. Watch the on-screen indicator and confirm that the opponent is in the affected space before committing.

Area indicators are especially important against groups and large targets. Move the Trainer away from the marked danger zone, then command your Pokémon from a safer angle. This is more reliable than trying to absorb every hit and repair the damage afterward with items.

• Use one move, then deliberately wait for its cooldown while moving.
• Use a second move with a different range or area.
• Avoid standing inside an enemy attack indicator.
• Cancel a planned attack by repositioning when the target leaves its effective area.

Swap, send out, and recall Pokémon during combat

Press Left or Right on the D-pad to select another Pokémon in your party. Press Up to send out the selected Pokémon; this automatically recalls the active Pokémon. Press Down to recall the active Pokémon. These actions occur while the encounter remains active, so an opponent can continue moving and attacking during a swap.

Swap when the active Pokémon has a poor matchup, is in danger, or cannot use its useful moves immediately. Do not send the replacement into an active attack indicator. First move the Trainer away from the threatened area or wait until the opponent has committed to an attack, then make the change.

The D-pad is also separate from the move controls. Left and Right select the party member, Up sends that selection out, and Down recalls the active Pokémon. Practice the sequence before a difficult fight so you do not confuse recalling with changing the selected Pokémon.

• Press Left or Right to select a second party member.
• Use Down to recall the active Pokémon in a safe encounter.
• Use Up to send the selected Pokémon back out.
• Complete one swap after an opponent finishes an attack rather than during its wind-up.

Use the Satchel and Poké Balls without turn-based assumptions

Press X to open the main menu and access the Satchel during battle. From the Satchel, you can use medicine or Berries. There is no separate turn-based item phase, so create distance before opening the menu whenever the enemy is actively threatening the Trainer or your Pokémon. Item use has its own battle timing, so do not rely on repeated healing as a substitute for movement and swapping.

To aim a Poké Ball, hold ZR. While ZR is held, press Left or Right on the D-pad to change the selected Poké Ball from the Satchel. Release ZR to throw the selected ball. Press B to cancel the throw. If ZL and ZR are both held, the Poké Ball controls override the move-command display.

For wild Pokémon, use the reticle to aim at the target. A Pokémon that has not noticed you may be easier to catch, while lowering its HP through battle can also improve the opportunity. Remember that a Poké Ball throw is an active command, not a pause in the encounter.

• Open the Satchel through X and identify a usable medicine item.
• Move away from danger before using a healing item.
• Hold ZR and change the selected Poké Ball with Left or Right.
• Cancel one Poké Ball throw with B instead of releasing ZR.

Complete three early combat drills

In the first accessible Wild Zone, begin with one low-threat Pokémon. Hold ZL, use one move, move sideways during its cooldown, then use a different move after checking its range. Repeat this until you can watch the target and the cooldown display without standing in front of every attack.

Next, engage two wild Pokémon. Focus one target, switch targets with the Right Stick, and roll with Y when an attack threatens the Trainer. Do not spend the whole encounter attacking the nearest target automatically; practice choosing the opponent that is currently dangerous or nearly defeated.

Finally, select a second party member with Left or Right, recall with Down, and send the replacement with Up. Win the encounter after the swap. At night, enter a red-bordered battle zone only after you understand the controls. Hide behind objects when possible: avoiding detection can let you initiate a surprise attack, while being spotted can leave your Pokémon caught off guard.

Use the daytime period to catch and train in Wild Zones and restock before the night battle zone. This day-night rhythm is part of the game’s progression loop, not merely a cosmetic change.

• Win a one-on-one fight while using at least two different moves.
• Survive a two-enemy encounter while avoiding a marked attack area.
• Change targets with the Right Stick during combat.
• Swap Pokémon with the D-pad and win after the swap.
• Approach a Trainer from cover in a red-bordered battle zone.

1. Make Hotel Z your story checkpoint

Hotel Z is in Vert District and serves as your headquarters during the Lumiose campaign. The lobby is where AZ and Team MZ-related characters can appear, while the accessible upper floors include your room and the rooms used by recurring characters. Return here when a Main Mission directs you to do so, after major story scenes, and whenever the game places a new objective at the hotel. Hotel Z is a reliable story landmark, but do not assume that every mission update comes from speaking to one particular resident; use the Main Mission list and its focused objective to confirm what the game wants next.

When you arrive at Hotel Z, first check the active Main Mission in the menu. If its objective points to a hotel resident, speak to that marked character and watch the full scene. If the objective points elsewhere, leave through the lobby and follow the focused map marker instead of questioning every NPC. Your room is also useful for advancing the time of day, which matters because the Z-A Royale takes place at night while daytime is useful for preparation and wild-zone training.

• Remember Hotel Z’s location in Vert District.
• Check the Main Mission menu before searching the hotel for a trigger.
• Use the bed in your room when you need to move between morning and night.

2. Use Centrico Plaza and Prism Tower to orient yourself

Centrico Plaza is the center of Lumiose City, with Prism Tower as its most useful visual reference. The city’s streets, avenues and districts radiate around this central area, while wild zones and battle locations occupy sections of the redeveloped city. When a route begins to feel confusing, open the map, identify whether the objective is in a district, wild zone, rooftop or battle area, and then use Prism Tower or the nearest named plaza as your orientation point.

Do not try to memorize every alley during the opening missions. The early campaign introduces city navigation gradually, and some movement options become useful only after story progress. Follow the initial orientation objectives first. Once the map has exposed a new district or service, enter it at least once so its location can become useful for later travel. This is more efficient than repeatedly crossing the city by memory.

• Use Prism Tower and Centrico Plaza as the central reference point.
• Read the district or location name on the map before setting out.
• Let the opening missions introduce new areas before deliberately exploring them.

3. Heal and shop at Pokémon Centers

Pokémon Centers are the dependable preparation stop before an excursion. They restore Pokémon that have been exhausted in battle and provide access to useful items. Visit one before a difficult mission, after a long wild-zone session, or before entering a nighttime battle area. The available stock can change as the campaign advances, so check the shop whenever a major story milestone or new district becomes available rather than assuming the first inventory is final.

A practical preparation check is to heal the whole party, confirm that you have enough capture supplies and recovery items for the next objective, and verify that the active team is appropriate for the marked mission. If the party is injured but the objective is nearby, healing at the Center is usually preferable to spending valuable recovery items. Cafés can restore Pokémon and improve friendliness, so use one when it is directly on your route, but return to a Pokémon Center when you also need dependable item shopping.

Enter each Pokémon Center you encounter. Pokémon Centers and other visited locations can be registered as fast-travel destinations, and registration is based on visiting the location rather than merely seeing its icon from a distance. After registration, open the map and select the destination to warp there.

• Heal before difficult missions and before nighttime Z-A Royale activity.
• Buy capture and recovery supplies at the Pokémon Center item shop.
• Enter newly discovered Centers so they become available as map destinations.

4. Follow Main Missions from the map

Main Missions are the campaign’s primary progression track. The Main Mission list records completed objectives and can provide directions when you set a mission as the map’s focus. Select the current Main Mission before leaving Hotel Z or a Pokémon Center, then follow the resulting marker instead of treating every nearby request as equally important.

Side Missions and resident requests are optional unless the current Main Mission specifically requires one. Complete an optional request when it is close to your route or when you want its reward, but do not let a distant side marker pull you away from an imminent story battle. If several markers overlap, reopen the mission list and confirm that the main-story task—not an optional request—is selected.

• Set the required Main Mission as the map focus.
• Treat side requests as optional unless the active objective says otherwise.
• Recheck the selected mission after completing a scene or battle.

5. Use Holovators, registered travel points and Lumi Cab

Holovators are the city’s vertical transport devices. Use one when an objective is on a rooftop or another elevated section. If the marker appears close but remains unreachable at street level, search the surrounding block for a Holovator rather than looking for a conventional staircase or repeatedly jumping against a building. Nintendo identifies Holovators as the route to rooftops and confirms that Roto-Glide is unlocked later for temporary aerial movement.

Fast travel is the best option between locations you have already visited. Pokémon Centers, wild zones, shopping areas, cafés and other points of interest can become registered map destinations after you enter them. Lumi Cab is the fallback when you need to reach a destination that has not yet been registered; speak with a taxi driver and choose the available destination for a fee. Keep some money available if you plan to use taxis repeatedly.

Do not plan routes around Roto-Glide at the beginning of the game. Until the story unlocks it, use street routes and Holovators. After it becomes available, treat it as a shortcut for temporary aerial travel, not as permission to ignore the focused mission marker.

• Use Holovators for rooftop objectives.
• Register useful locations by physically entering them.
• Use Lumi Cab when the destination is not yet registered or when a direct taxi route saves substantial time.

6. Build the city excursion loop around the time of day

Use this repeatable loop for ordinary progression: check Hotel Z or the Main Mission menu, set the story objective, heal and shop at the nearest Pokémon Center, travel to the marked wild zone or battle area, then return to a registered Center or Hotel Z when the objective is complete. This keeps the team ready without requiring blind trips across every boulevard.

During the day, wild zones are the natural place to catch Pokémon, train the party and gather supplies for the next nighttime challenge. When night falls, the Z-A Royale becomes active and battle areas become more important to progression. Prepare during the day instead of entering the night phase with a damaged team or an empty supply pouch. Nintendo specifically recommends daytime training and item preparation for progress through the nighttime Z-A Royale.

Later in the game, benches can advance the time of day, but do not rely on that option before it is introduced. Hotel Z’s bed is the dependable early headquarters option for moving between morning and night. Revisit shops after major story milestones because vendors and useful services do not necessarily provide their full later-game selection from the start.

• Hotel Z or Main Mission menu for the objective.
• Pokémon Center for healing and supplies.
• Daytime for training and preparation; nighttime for Z-A Royale activity.
• Registered map destination or Lumi Cab for the return trip.

1. Recover the travel bag and choose your first partner

Leave the station and follow the disturbance outside instead of exploring Lumiose City. The opening chase leads to your stolen travel bag and the first required battle against Andi the Backpacker and Pancham. Use the focus command to keep Pancham selected, send out your Pokémon, and move while attacks recharge. This fight is meant to teach the real-time rhythm: issue a command, watch the battlefield, and reposition before the next attack lands.

Choose Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile when the game presents the partner selection. The choice determines your opening partner, but it does not prevent you from obtaining the other starter lines later. Defeat Pancham, recover the bag, and follow the next objective rather than stopping to investigate side paths.

• Leave the station and follow the opening disturbance.
• Defeat Andi the Backpacker and Pancham.
• Choose Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile.
• Recover the travel bag and confirm that the next primary objective appears.

2. Escape the first Battle Zone and reach Hotel Z

Follow the marked route through the first nighttime Battle Zone. Do not try to defeat every wild Pokémon in this section. Move toward the exit while watching the attack areas displayed around opposing Pokémon. The objective is to learn how to travel through an active battle area without standing still and absorbing every incoming attack.

At the exit, Brigitte challenges you with Cleffa and Bunnelby. Recall your Pokémon when a large attack is about to land, then redeploy once the danger area has cleared. After winning, leave the zone and travel to Hotel Z. Go to Room 202, interact with the bed when prompted, and continue through the room and rooftop sequence. Hotel Z becomes a recurring story base, so remember its location for later mission returns.

• Reach the marked Battle Zone exit.
• Defeat Brigitte’s Cleffa and Bunnelby.
• Enter Hotel Z and go to Room 202.
• Complete the bed and rooftop sequence.

3. Join Team MZ and learn the opening movement tools

Accept the Team MZ jacket and satchel when the story offers them. Practice the movement actions introduced during this sequence, including the dash and the instructed dive or roll. These actions are useful immediately because later routes use rooftops, narrow approaches, and hazards that are easier to cross when you can move decisively.

Battle your rival after the Team MZ introduction. The rival uses two level 5 starter-line Pokémon, with the exact choices depending on the partner you selected. Use the move-effectiveness indicators when available, but keep practicing movement and recall timing instead of standing beside the target for the entire exchange. Heal after the fight before entering the next tutorial area.

• Join Team MZ.
• Complete the rival battle.
• Practice dash and evasive movement.
• Heal before beginning the Pokédex and Wild Zone objectives.

4. Install the Pokédex and complete the first capture lesson

Visit the Pokémon Center when the primary mission sends you there. The Pokédex is installed during this opening progression, after which the mission asks you to register five Pokémon. Follow the marker to Wild Zone 1 and complete the capture lesson there. Fletchling and Bunnelby are the important early catches named by the route, but you can also catch other available Pokémon while you are in the zone.

Approach from cover or while crouching when possible. A surprise capture or opening attack is safer than running directly into a group. If a wild Pokémon notices you, either reposition and wait for it to settle or battle it from a safe angle before throwing a Poké Ball. Return to Mable after the Wild Zone objective and open Mable’s Research from the main menu to redeem completed rewards. Rewards are not automatically added merely because their requirements are complete.

The early research reward includes TM004 Rock Smash. Keep it available for the Pokémon you intend to use while navigating early obstacles, but do not treat every research request as a mandatory story mission. Research is an ongoing optional progression system that supplies TMs and other useful rewards.

• Visit the Pokémon Center and install the Pokédex.
• Register the five Pokémon requested by the active mission.
• Catch the required Fletchling and Bunnelby in Wild Zone 1.
• Return to Mable.
• Open Mable’s Research and redeem the completed reward.
• Obtain TM004 Rock Smash.

5. Prepare a three-Pokémon core before the first Royale

Before entering the first Z-A Royale sequence, build a practical party of at least three usable Pokémon. Keep more than one useful attack type represented so that a resistant opponent does not stop your only effective attacker. You do not need a perfect team or a long grinding session; a starter plus two healthy Wild Zone catches is enough for the opening promotion route.

Heal at a Pokémon Center and carry a modest supply of basic healing items. Items can be used during battles, and the game allows you to change party members from your Boxes and alter moves outside battle, so make those adjustments before entering the Battle Zone. Replace a fainted or badly weakened member with a fresh catch rather than spending all your supplies trying to protect one underprepared Pokémon.

Redeem available Mable’s Research rewards before leaving the city. This reduces backtracking and may provide a useful move for the next battles. Catching a few nearby Pokémon and completing research requests on the route is preferable to repeatedly grinding an earlier area after the story has already opened a new objective.

• Have at least three battle-ready Pokémon.
• Represent more than one useful attack type.
• Heal at a Pokémon Center.
• Carry basic healing supplies.
• Redeem completed Mable’s Research rewards.
• Review moves and party order before entering the Battle Zone.

6. Complete the first Z-A Royale and win the promotion match

Enter the Battle Zone when the Z-A Royale mission becomes active. Defeat the three opposing Trainers required by the objective and collect the progression items placed along the route if the mission marks them. Medals, berries, and extra wild encounters are useful but should not distract you from the required Trainer battles and ticket-point objective.

When the promotion marker appears, travel to the Taxi Lot on South Boulevard. Heal before activating the match. The promotion battle is the first major progress gate, so do not enter with a fainted lead or a party built around only one attack type. During the fight, use the move-effectiveness symbols, recall a Pokémon before a telegraphed area attack, and reposition while moves are on cooldown. Exact opponent levels are not necessary for this chapter; the important preparation is a healthy, varied party.

After winning, finish the promotion scene and confirm that the game has advanced to Rank Y. Do not leave the area assuming the next objective has updated automatically. Open the mission log and select the newly available primary mission before continuing.

• Enter the first Battle Zone during the active Z-A Royale mission.
• Defeat the three required opposing Trainers.
• Collect any items explicitly marked as required by the objective.
• Travel to the Taxi Lot on South Boulevard.
• Heal before starting the promotion match.
• Win the promotion match.
• Confirm Rank Y and select the next primary mission.

7. Use the mission loop and recover from missed triggers

Treat the mission log as the authority for story progression. The active primary mission is the task that advances the Lumiose campaign and normally places a destination or objective marker on the map. Side missions and errands are optional requests from city residents. Accept them when they are nearby, reward useful items, or overlap with Pokémon you already need, but do not let them replace the selected primary mission when you are trying to move the story forward.

If a trigger seems missing, open the mission log and select the primary mission again. Travel to the marked building, hotel room, Pokémon Center, Battle Zone entrance, or city landmark instead of searching the entire district. If a conversation or battle does not start, leave the marked area, heal or restock, and re-enter it. Check that the required Pokémon, item, or research condition has been completed before returning. A failed battle does not permanently skip the story; adjust the party, change moves, restock, and return to the same mission marker.

Once the first promotion is complete, follow the next primary objective toward the Prism Tower investigation. Continue catching replacements and completing nearby research requests, but avoid prolonged grinding in Wild Zone 1. The campaign opens new routes and stronger encounters through primary missions, making forward progress more efficient than overtraining an outdated team.

• The intended primary mission is selected in the mission log.
• Its map marker is visible.
• Nearby side missions have not displaced the primary objective.
• The party is healed before each required battle.
• A failed battle is followed by restocking and a return to the same marker.
• The Prism Tower investigation is visible as the next main objective.

1. Unlock and enter Wild Zones through the main campaign

Wild Zones become available as the main missions open more of Lumiose City. The first zone is introduced during the early campaign, while later groups become available after major rank and story milestones. Do not try to reach a later zone by forcing a route through the city; if its gate or map entry is unavailable, continue the current Main Mission or complete the required story step first. Wild Zone 20 is a postgame destination associated with Main Mission 38, so it is not part of the normal early-game route.

When a new zone opens, enter it once during the daytime before pursuing optional exploration. Note the entrance, the closest fast-travel destination, any bench, and the direction of the primary mission marker. These landmarks give you a repeatable route back to safety. The official game structure places Wild Zone preparation during the day and the Z-A Royale at night, so use each daytime visit to improve the team you will take into the next rank battle.

• Check the Main Mission before attempting to reach a locked zone.
• Enter each newly opened zone once to identify its entrance and nearby recovery landmarks.
• Use daytime exploration to prepare for the next nighttime Z-A Royale.

2. Approach ordinary encounters from a safe angle

Wild Pokémon can be caught by aiming and throwing a Poké Ball, or battled by sending out one of your Pokémon. Start from the edge of a group whenever possible. Look for a lone target, a wall, a corner or a change in elevation that lets you begin the encounter without attracting several Pokémon at once. If the target is facing away, throw from concealment or from outside its immediate path so you have time to react if the first attempt fails.

Engage when the species is needed for a mission, research request or team role, or when the battle is a safe source of experience. Avoid clearing every group along a required route. Real-time combat can draw attacks toward both the Trainer and the active Pokémon, so a string of unnecessary fights can leave the party damaged before a story encounter. If multiple wild Pokémon become hostile, move away from the group, dodge incoming attacks and wait for the enemies to spread out before re-engaging.

• Select a lone target before starting a capture attempt.
• Use corners, walls and elevation to reduce the chance of a group battle.
• Disengage when several wild Pokémon target you at once.

3. Treat Alpha Pokémon as optional hazards

Alpha Pokémon are larger, visibly powerful wild Pokémon with glowing red eyes. They are useful targets when you are deliberately hunting a strong capture or completing a task that calls for one, but they are not routine obstacles that must be defeated on every visit. If an Alpha blocks the route to a mission marker, go around it rather than spending your healing items on a fight you do not need.

Before challenging an Alpha, make sure the active Pokémon has a suitable move set, the rest of the party is healthy and you have ordinary healing and capture supplies. Keep the Trainer moving during telegraphed attacks and avoid allowing nearby wild Pokémon to join the encounter. If the fight begins to consume too many resources, retreat and return after the next story upgrade or with a better matchup.

• Do not fight an Alpha merely because it is visible.
• Prepare a healthy party and ordinary recovery items before an intentional Alpha attempt.
• Circle around an Alpha when it is not part of the current objective.

4. Navigate Lumiose by markers and vertical landmarks

Use the mission marker as your primary direction, but confirm it against recognizable landmarks such as Prism Tower, large plazas, broad streets, Wild Zone gates, bridges and major buildings. Lumiose has routes above and below street level. If the marker appears close but remains unreachable, look for stairs, ramps, rooftop access, underground entrances or a passage through the neighboring block instead of repeatedly running into the same wall.

During a primary mission, reach the marked objective before detouring for optional Pokémon. If the objective later tells you to return to the city, follow the route you already used rather than opening a new fight on the opposite side of the zone. This is especially useful in areas with divided paths or encounters that can disappear when you move too far away.

• Match the objective marker with a city landmark.
• Check rooftops, stairs and underground routes when the marker is at another elevation.
• Complete the primary objective before taking a long optional detour.

5. Refresh encounters with the correct method

When a species is absent, first confirm its Wild Zone and any story or research requirement in the Pokédex or mission text. Wild Zone encounter tables are not interchangeable, and later species may be unavailable until the relevant zone or story milestone opens. For ordinary exploration, leave the immediate area, use a nearby loading transition or fast-travel point, and return. This commonly produces a fresh local set of encounters without requiring you to fight through the same group again.

A bench can also refresh nearby spawns while changing the time of day, making benches useful when a target is within the local refresh area. The effect is local rather than a guarantee that every Pokémon in Lumiose will be replaced. Some Pokémon that were defeated or captured may require time to pass before returning, so do not assume an immediate reset after one failed attempt. If a target is still missing, leave the zone, continue the main story or revisit during the other part of the day.

Use fast travel or a confirmed loading transition for repeated searches, but do not spend rare items while waiting for an uncommon encounter. Capture common species and complete story objectives first; reserve repeated resets for a specific research requirement, Alpha hunt or optional collection goal.

• Confirm the species and zone in the Pokédex or mission text.
• Use fast travel, a loading transition or a nearby bench to refresh local encounters.
• Allow time or story progression when a defeated or progression-gated Pokémon does not return immediately.

6. Recover from a failed exploration run

If the active Pokémon are weakened, stop taking optional fights. Move away from the hostile group, reach the nearest safe route and use a fast-travel point, city service or zone exit when the game makes one available. Heal before starting the next required battle. Wild Zones are short enough that returning to the city is usually safer than consuming rare recovery items and hoping the next encounter is easy.

If a desired Pokémon flees or is knocked out, do not treat the attempt as lost progress. Record its location, leave the area or trigger an appropriate local refresh, then return with a capture-ready Pokémon and enough ordinary supplies. For a rare spawn, make a manual save before beginning the search when the game permits saving in that location, and avoid overwriting it after a failed optional attempt. This protects the main campaign while you pursue side content.

• Retreat as soon as several party members are weakened.
• Heal before the next required mission encounter.
• Save before a deliberate rare-encounter search when saving is available.

1. Assign practical jobs to the six party slots

Use the six available slots to create overlapping jobs rather than six identical attackers. A useful starting structure is one close-range damage dealer, one ranged attacker, one durable switch-in, one fast repositioning Pokémon, one flexible coverage member and one open slot for a mission specialist. These are guidelines, not permanent classes: one Pokémon may fill two jobs if its moves and movement suit both.

Judge a candidate by its usable moves, range, attack-area shape, movement speed and ability to remain useful while its strongest move is cooling down. Do not remove a Pokémon solely because it lacks a perfect type matchup. A Pokémon with a safe ranged move, a defensive option or a useful status move can still contribute when direct damage is resisted.

• Keep at least one reliable ranged attack in the active party.
• Keep at least one Pokémon that can survive long enough to make a safe switch.
• Leave one slot available for a type, move or evolution requirement in the current mission.

2. Build coverage while limiting shared weaknesses

Start by checking both sides of the type chart. Fire, Water and Grass coverage is a convenient foundation, but it is not a complete plan. Add answers to the types and Pokémon you actually meet in current Wild Zones and story missions. A move’s range and area can matter as much as its type because a super-effective attack is still poor value if it consistently misses or leaves the user inside an incoming attack.

Avoid stacking several members with the same defensive weakness. Real-time encounters can place multiple party members near the same area attack, making repeated weaknesses especially costly. If two members share a weakness, keep a third member that can enter safely or deal damage from outside the danger area. Also retain at least one move that can damage opponents resistant to the party’s most common attacking types.

• Review defensive weaknesses after adding every new team member.
• Check that the party has answers to resistant targets, not only super-effective options.
• Do not select all six members by level alone.

3. Rotate instead of waiting through cooldowns

Switching is one of the main defensive tools in Legends: Z-A. When a move is telegraphed, move the active Pokémon away from the marked area and switch to a teammate that resists the attack, has a safer range or can punish the opponent after the attack finishes. Do not leave a Pokémon exposed simply because its strongest move is recharging.

Pair different attack patterns. Use a long-range or wide-area move to pressure groups, then bring in a close-range Pokémon when an isolated target has committed to an attack. A fast Pokémon can create distance while a slower partner waits for a key move. Practice the switch before the active Pokémon reaches critical health; changing after it is surrounded often gives the opponent enough time to defeat both the outgoing and incoming members.

• Practice moving out of an attack area before switching.
• Rotate when the useful moves are unavailable instead of standing in place.
• Keep a healthy backup ready before beginning a Rogue Mega Evolution or multi-enemy battle.

4. Treat recovery and status cures as timed resources

Carry medicines for the current excursion, including healing items and cures for statuses you are likely to encounter. Burn, poison, paralysis, drowsiness, confusion and other conditions can affect movement, damage or move cooldowns, so a status cure may be more valuable than another offensive item. Held Berries can provide automatic protection in suitable situations, while medicines let you choose the target directly.

Medicine use has its own battle cooldown. Using an item does not stop the fight or make repeated healing immediately available, and switching does not remove the need to wait for that item-use timer. Heal during a safe opening, after an enemy attack has ended or while another Pokémon has drawn attention away. Revive only when the restored member has a clear chance to re-enter; otherwise, switch to a healthy teammate and preserve the recovery item for a safer window.

• Restock before long missions rather than relying on emergency drops.
• Carry both HP recovery and relevant status cures.
• Do not spend the entire recovery supply during the first phase of a multi-stage encounter.

5. Use held items for a specific job

Held items are available in this game and can improve damage, recovery, status protection, evolution or Mega Evolution. Give a held item a clear purpose. A compatible Mega Stone belongs on the Pokémon intended to Mega Evolve. A healing or resistance Berry can help a vulnerable member survive a known threat. A move-type item can strengthen a Pokémon whose main contribution comes from that type.

Training items such as Power Weight, Power Bracer, Power Belt, Power Lens, Power Band and Power Anklet improve growth in a particular stat but reduce the holder’s battle Speed while equipped. They are useful for training plans, not automatically correct for active combat. Remove or replace one if the reduced Speed makes the Pokémon too slow to reposition or avoid attack areas. Held items are separate from medicines in the Satchel; equipping one does not replace carrying usable healing supplies.

• Give each held item to a Pokémon that benefits from its exact effect.
• Equip the compatible Mega Stone before a mission that may require Mega Evolution.
• Remove Speed-reducing training items when real-time mobility matters more than stat growth.

6. Maintain a reserve roster and replace members deliberately

Replace a party member when it repeatedly fails to perform a needed job, not merely because a newly caught Pokémon has a higher level. Warning signs include redundant typing, a move set that cannot reach current opponents safely, poor survivability during area attacks or a role already performed better by another member. Before boxing it permanently, try changing its moves, evolving it or giving it a more suitable held item.

Keep promising lower-level Pokémon in reserve for mission-specific roles. A specialist can be worth training if it supplies an uncommon type, a useful range, a status move, an evolution requirement or a safer matchup against a recurring opponent. Raise it in easier encounters or with available experience items, then check its movement and cooldown behavior before committing it to a difficult mission.

• Keep a reserve roster instead of carrying several redundant members.
• Test a new capture in a lower-risk Wild Zone before using it in a major fight.
• Reassess the party when a new Wild Zone, evolution or Mega Stone becomes available.

7. Prepare a Mega-ready core without making it the whole team

Choose one or two Mega-capable Pokémon that remain useful before Mega Evolution. Each intended user needs its compatible Mega Stone, and the battle’s Mega gauge must be charged before transformation is available. Because the gauge is a battle resource, do not assume that Mega Evolution can be activated immediately at the start of every encounter.

Support the candidate with a partner that covers its weaknesses and a second member that can provide safe ranged pressure while the gauge charges or while the transformed Pokémon is repositioning. Learn the candidate’s ordinary moves first and practice it without Mega Evolution. This prevents a failed matchup, an empty gauge or a poorly timed transformation from collapsing the entire party. Use Mega Evolution to swing a dangerous phase or secure a key objective, not as a substitute for healing, switching and coverage.

• The Mega candidate is useful even before transformation.
• The compatible Mega Stone is equipped before the mission begins.
• At least two other party members can contribute if Mega Evolution is unavailable or badly matched.
• The candidate has a safe partner for its main weaknesses and a backup damage source.

1. Reach the first Rogue Mega Absol encounter

Progress through the primary missions until you reach Rank V and begin Main Mission 09, Chase That Mysterious Pokémon!. Follow the mysterious Pokémon through Lumiose City as directed. The chase eventually leads to a restricted rooftop battle against a Rogue Mega Absol.

This is a scripted teaching encounter. You are not expected to arrive with a fully prepared Mega team. During the fight, attack Mega Absol to make Mega Power orbs appear, then move through the arena to collect them. The orbs fill the Mega gauge used by the Lucario provided for the tutorial sequence.

Mega Absol can threaten both your Pokémon and your Trainer. Use the Y-button dodge to avoid its direct attacks, move away when it creates a red energy ring, and do not stand in front of a wind burst or other clearly telegraphed attack. If Lucario’s temporary Mega state ends, keep damaging Absol and collect the next orb drops so the gauge can be used again.

• Reach Rank V and accept Main Mission 09.
• Follow the mysterious Pokémon to the rooftop encounter.
• Attack Mega Absol, collect its Mega Power orbs, and activate the provided Lucario when the gauge is ready.
• Defeat Rogue Mega Absol and obtain Absolite.

2. Finish the follow-up explanation before planning your team

Defeating Rogue Mega Absol completes the encounter portion of Main Mission 09 and starts Main Mission 10, The Secrets of Mega Evolution. Continue through this mission rather than treating the tutorial battle as the entire unlock process. The follow-up mission explains how ordinary team members use Mega Evolution and advances the story into the next rank sequence.

At the start of the follow-up, place Absol in your party and give it Absolite when the mission asks you to demonstrate the system. The battle against your rival is a practical equipment check: the Pokémon must be in the party and holding its compatible stone. You do not need to build the entire campaign around Absol, but completing this demonstration confirms that you understand the held-item requirement.

During Main Mission 10, the game awards the Mega Ring progression and provides further Mega-related objectives. Once the mission has registered as complete, the Mega gauge and Mega Evolution commands are available for eligible Pokémon in later battles.

• Start Main Mission 10 after completing Main Mission 09.
• Put Absol in the active party when the mission requests it.
• Give Absolite to Absol before the demonstration battle.
• Complete the Mega Evolution explanation and confirm that the Mega Ring is available.

3. Equip the correct Mega Stone

A compatible species alone is not enough. The Pokémon must be one of the species that can Mega Evolve in Pokémon Legends: Z-A and must hold the matching Mega Stone. For example, Gardevoir requires Gardevoirite, Meganium requires Meganiumite, and Absol requires Absolite. A stone sitting in the Satchel does not prepare a Pokémon for battle; open the party or held-item interface and equip it before entering the mission.

Mega Stones enter your collection through several routes. The Stone Emporium sells an assortment of stones and related items. Quasartico Inc. also offers stones in exchange for Mega Shards, which you obtain by having Pokémon break Mega Crystal clusters around Lumiose City. Some stones are tied to Rogue Mega encounters or other special rewards, so do not assume every stone can be bought immediately.

Check the stone’s name against the final evolution you intend to use. If the Mega command is absent despite having a full gauge, first confirm the Pokémon is holding the correct stone and that no other team member is currently occupying the active Mega state.

• Choose a species with a Mega Evolution available in this game.
• Equip its exact matching Mega Stone rather than merely carrying it.
• Use the Stone Emporium, Quasartico Inc., Rogue Mega rewards, or other verified reward sources as they become available.
• Recheck the held item after changing party members.

4. Build and spend Mega Power correctly

The Mega gauge appears in the battle HUD and fills through combat. In Rogue Mega encounters, damaging the target produces Mega Power orbs that can be collected, so reposition toward safe orb drops instead of attacking continuously from a hazardous location. Ordinary battles also build Mega Power through combat actions, allowing you to prepare for a later phase rather than spending the gauge in every minor encounter.

When the gauge is ready, press the right control stick inward, shown as pressing the R stick, to activate Mega Evolution for the eligible active Pokémon. The transformation is temporary. Mega Power drains while the Pokémon remains Mega-Evolved, and the Pokémon returns to its normal form when the available energy is exhausted.

Mega Evolution also interacts with Plus Moves. A Mega-Evolved Pokémon uses the Plus version of its moves, while a non-Mega Pokémon can spend Mega Power to use an available Plus Move by pressing the Plus button while selecting the move. This means the same gauge supports both a temporary transformation and enhanced attacks. Do not empty the gauge on Plus Moves immediately before a boss phase if Mega Evolution is your planned answer.

Mega Evolution does not replace movement, attack timing, or the normal cooldown rhythm of real-time combat. The transformed Pokémon still has to reach the target, wait for moves to become available, and avoid telegraphed attacks.

• Watch the Mega gauge in the lower-right battle HUD.
• Collect Mega Power orbs in Rogue Mega arenas when it is safe to do so.
• Press the R stick only when the correct active Pokémon is positioned to benefit.
• Reserve enough Mega Power for the objective you are trying to accomplish.
• Remember that Plus Moves spend Mega Power outside Mega Evolution.

5. Choose a tactical activation point

Activate Mega Evolution at a meaningful breakpoint rather than at the first possible moment. Good opportunities include a Rogue Mega Pokémon exposing itself after a large attack, a boss entering a vulnerable phase, several targets grouping for an area attack, or a priority enemy approaching defeat but still threatening the rest of the party.

Swap before activating if the current Pokémon is low on health, has poor type coverage, or cannot safely reach the target. Mega Evolution improves the chosen Pokémon’s offensive or defensive role, but it does not cancel damage already telegraphed or make a bad matchup safe. Move the Trainer out of the attack zone first when the enemy is targeting both combatants.

Plan around one active Mega state at a time. If the transformed Pokémon is forced out, defeated, or allowed to run out of Mega Power, do not expect to keep every candidate Mega-Evolved simultaneously. Preserve a second Pokémon with useful coverage and continue the fight normally while the gauge is rebuilt.

• Use Mega Evolution to secure a phase, defeat a priority target, or create safe space.
• Do not activate while standing inside a visible area attack.
• Swap instead of forcing a poor matchup to continue.
• Keep at least one non-Mega answer available for the rest of the encounter.

6. Prepare a dependable Mega candidate

Train the intended candidate alongside the rest of the party instead of waiting until a major Rogue Mega mission. Keep its level appropriate for the current story rank, give it moves that cover its weaknesses, and learn the ranges and area indicators of those moves in ordinary wild battles. A Mega candidate that cannot reach the target or lacks a safe response to ranged attacks will waste much of its temporary window.

Useful candidates are Pokémon whose Mega forms reinforce a role your team actually needs. Mega Charizard X or Y can supply offensive pressure, Mega Gardevoir offers strong ranged damage, Mega Gyarados can serve as a durable close-range attacker, and Mega Meganium can provide a sturdier utility-oriented option. These are examples, not mandatory choices; select a Pokémon that fits your available stone, preferred range, and the rest of your team’s coverage.

Before a major story fight, heal the party, equip the stone, confirm the candidate is in the active party, and carry recovery items. Keep a backup attacker that does not depend on Mega Evolution. If a mission goes badly, retreat when the objective permits, return to a Pokémon Center, replace a poor matchup, and retry after changing the activation point rather than spending all items in the same failed attempt.

• Level the Mega candidate with the main party.
• Equip the matching Mega Stone before departure.
• Use moves that provide coverage and a safe range for real-time encounters.
• Stock healing and status recovery items.
• Maintain a backup attacker that can finish the mission without Mega Evolution.

Begin the middle campaign with The Secrets of Mega Evolution

After completing Main Mission 9, Chase That Mysterious Pokémon, speak with your rival outside Hotel Z to begin Main Mission 10, The Secrets of Mega Evolution. Before the required battle, open the Boxes menu and give Absol the Absolite so it can Mega Evolve. Complete the rival battle, then follow the story back to Hotel Z.

The investigation then splits into three separate Rogue Mega missions. Main Mission 11 sends you to Amylis Park in the Bleu District to face Rogue Mega Slowbro. Main Mission 12 takes you to Jaune Sector 3, where you must speak with Tarragon and defeat Tony’s Pokémon before reaching Rogue Mega Camerupt on the rooftops. Main Mission 13 sends you to Magenta Sector 9 for Rogue Mega Victreebel. These three missions can be completed before the story continues, so heal and restock before each marked encounter.

Each Rogue Mega victory awards a Mega Stone. Use warning areas as your signal to move, then attack after the danger zone clears. Do not spend the entire Mega Ring charge on ordinary encounters if you can reserve Mega Evolution for a boss’s most threatening phase.

• Complete Main Mission 10 and equip Absolite to Absol before the required rival battle.
• Defeat Rogue Mega Slowbro in Amylis Park, Rogue Mega Camerupt in Jaune Sector 3, and Rogue Mega Victreebel in Magenta Sector 9.
• Equip the newly earned Mega Stones to suitable Pokémon before the next promotion sequence.

Earn Rank E through the Z-A Royale and promotion missions

After the first Rogue Mega sequence, complete Main Mission 14, Reaching Rank E. The mission includes Canari’s quiz, a battle against Mani, and the promotion path leading to Canari. Prepare Ground-type attacks for Canari’s Electric-focused team and Water-type attacks for Tarragon’s Ground-focused team.

During the daytime, heal, train in accessible Wild Zones, replace weak party members, and restock. At night, enter the active Z-A Royale Battle Zone to earn the Challenger’s Ticket or the required ticket points for promotion. Bonus Card objectives can accelerate progress, but choose objectives that suit your current team rather than forcing a risky fight.

Promotion battles allow item use, so carry Potions and status recovery items even when your Pokémon have type advantages. Swap an injured Pokémon out while you heal it instead of allowing one poor matchup to decide the battle.

• Finish the Canari quiz and the required promotion route.
• Prepare Ground-type moves for Canari and Water-type moves for Tarragon.
• Earn the required Challenger’s Ticket or ticket points through the nighttime Z-A Royale and complete the Rank E promotion.

Complete A Job for Team MZ after reaching Rank E

Once you reach Rank E, speak with Lida at Hotel Z to start Main Mission 15, A Job for Team MZ. The mission opens three Rogue Mega investigations: Mega Beedrill in Sector 5, Mega Hawlucha in Sector 3, and Mega Banette in Sector 9. Complete each marked investigation and return to the active objective after the battle so the mission advances.

Early in this mission, your rival teaches you Roto-Glide across nearby rooftops. Practice the route instead of dropping into unfamiliar streets, because rooftop access is now part of the intended travel path and reaches locations that were previously inaccessible.

Treat the three fights as a sustained sequence. Heal before each encounter, keep a reliable answer for the target’s weaknesses, and do not enter the next marked location with several party members already in critical condition.

• Speak with Lida at Hotel Z after reaching Rank E.
• Complete the Mega Beedrill, Mega Hawlucha, and Mega Banette investigations.
• Use Roto-Glide to reach newly accessible rooftop routes and finish Main Missions 16 through 18.

Follow the Rust Syndicate investigation through Rank D

Continue through Main Mission 19, Reaching Rank D, including the search for Gwynn before the promotion match with Ivor. After the missing-person sequence is resolved, Main Mission 20, A Request from the Rust Syndicate, begins near Rust Syndicate headquarters. Defeat the waiting grunt, deal with Philippe, then follow the objective to the old building in the Bleu District. Defeat the Gastly and Gengar encountered there and speak with the requester before moving on.

The mission continues through Hotel Z, the area near the Electrical Substation, and the sewers. These sections place ordinary encounters and story battles close together, so heal before entering the old building and again before descending into the sewer route when a city or fast-travel opportunity is available.

The Rust Syndicate arc then sends you through Main Missions 21 to 23: Rogue Mega Mawile, Rogue Mega Barbaracle, and Rogue Mega Ampharos. Mawile is reached on a rooftop southwest of Wild Zone 14, Barbaracle is in the Bleu Sector 5 sewers, and Ampharos is on a rooftop south of Wild Zone 4 after you deal with the access obstruction. Their Mega Stones become available after the respective victories.

• Complete Main Mission 20 through the headquarters, old-building, Electrical Substation, and sewer objectives.
• Finish Rogue Mega Mawile, Rogue Mega Barbaracle, and Rogue Mega Ampharos.
• Complete the Rank D promotion sequence with Ivor before starting Main Mission 24.

Reach Rank C and finish the Battle Court checkpoint

Begin Main Mission 24, Reaching Rank C, after the three Rank D Rogue Mega missions. Corbeau asks you to earn a Challenger’s Ticket for the promotion match. Complete the required Z-A Royale progress, defeat Corbeau, and collect the mission reward, which includes TM100 Gunk Shot.

Main Mission 25, A Showdown on the Battle Court, becomes available after Reaching Rank C. Speak with Lida and Naveen at the Battle Court in Vert Sector 4. The mission requires two battles back-to-back: first Lida’s team, then Naveen’s. Heal and adjust your party before speaking with Lida, because there is no normal city resupply break between opponents.

Rock- and Electric-type attacks are useful against Lida’s varied team, while Fairy-type attacks are valuable against much of Naveen’s team. Complete both matches and check the mission log before leaving the Battle Court.

• Complete Reaching Rank C and defeat Corbeau.
• Speak with Lida and Naveen at the Battle Court in Vert Sector 4.
• Win both Battle Court matches and confirm that Main Mission 25 is recorded as complete.

Main Missions 26 through 29: interrupt the SBC tournament for three Rogue Mega cases

After the Battle Court sequence, go to the Nouveau Café with Team MZ. Lebanne then delivers an invitation to Hotel Richissime for a special SBC tournament. Visit the Boutique on Verdant Avenue to receive the required tournament outfit, then travel to Hotel Richissime and enter the gathering. When Vinnie reports new Rogue Mega activity, leave the tournament and follow the new mission markers. This starts Main Mission 26, An Invitation from the SBC.

Main Mission 27, A Rogue Mega Froslass, leads to Amylis Park in the Bleu District with Naveen. Froslass uses Phantom Force to reposition and Icy Wind for ranged pressure. When it charges Avalanche, avoid the first wave of falling icicles; after the second wave embeds in the arena, use the ice pillars as cover from Blizzard. Defeat Froslass and follow the post-battle objective instead of returning directly to the tournament.

Main Mission 28, A Rogue Mega Altaria, takes place in the Magenta District with Lida. Watch for Dragon Pulse at range and the homing Moonblast attack when Altaria rises. Its Twister charge sends a large cyclone through the arena followed by smaller cyclones, so keep moving around the outer edge rather than standing near the center.

Main Mission 29, A Rogue Mega Venusaur, takes place in a Jaune District park with Taunie or Urbain. Venusaur leaps around the arena and uses Power Whip at close range. Bullet Seed and the seed-based thorn hazards restrict the floor; Fire- or Flying-type attacks can clear the hazards. When Venusaur begins charging Solar Beam, move away from the marked area and punish it after the attack finishes.

• Visit the Nouveau Café, collect the Hotel Richissime invitation, obtain the tournament outfit on Verdant Avenue, and enter Hotel Richissime.
• Complete Rogue Mega Froslass at Amylis Park, Rogue Mega Altaria in the Magenta District, and Rogue Mega Venusaur in the Jaune District.
• Follow the objective after each fight until the mission log advances to Main Mission 30.

Main Mission 30: earn Rank B through the Hotel Richissime tournament

After the three Rogue Mega cases, Main Mission 30, Reaching Rank B, sets Jacinthe as your next promotion opponent. You still need the required Challenger’s Ticket. If the mission directs you to the tournament before you can proceed, Lebanne intercepts you and starts a battle. Defeat her, then return to Hotel Richissime.

The tournament is a sequence rather than one isolated match. Battle Canari first, then Ivor, then Corbeau. Their teams are in the mid-50s, so bring Ground-type pressure for Canari’s Electric-heavy group, Fairy- or Ice-type options for Dragon threats, and answers to Corbeau’s mixed Poison, Water, Grass, and Bug roster. Heal and reorganize whenever the game provides a break, but do not assume the tournament is finished after one victory.

Before the final match, Zygarde appears and must be defeated as part of the unfolding story. After that encounter, battle Jacinthe. Her team includes Carbink, Mawile, Aurorus, Gardevoir, and Mega Clefable, with the final Pokémon around Level 59. Steel- and Poison-type attacks are practical against her Fairy-focused roster, while Fire-, Fighting-, and Ground-type coverage helps against the supporting Pokémon.

Defeating Jacinthe completes Main Mission 30 and raises you to Rank B. The next morning begins the next Team MZ investigation.

• Earn the Challenger’s Ticket required by Main Mission 30.
• Complete the Hotel Richissime tournament battles against Canari, Ivor, and Corbeau.
• Defeat the story encounter with Zygarde and then defeat Jacinthe and Mega Clefable.
• Confirm Rank B and Main Mission 30 completion before leaving the tournament sequence.

Main Missions 31 through 34: answer Vinnie’s summons and clear the final Rogue Mega cases

Main Mission 31, A Summons from Vinnie, begins the next morning at Quasartico Inc. Go there when the mission marker appears and speak with Vinnie on Jett’s behalf. After the explanation of the renovation project and the energy coming from Prism Tower, Team MZ divides again to handle three Rogue Mega Pokémon.

Main Mission 32, A Rogue Mega Dragonite, sends you to the Vert District. Dragonite uses Air Slash and Flamethrower at range, Outrage at close range, and changes position by flying. During Hurricane, avoid the moving attack path while watching for random Thunder strikes. When Dragonite uses Hyper Beam, leave the marked central area before the explosion spreads across the arena. Defeat it to obtain Dragonitite.

Main Mission 33, A Rogue Mega Tyranitar, takes place in a small field in the Jaune District with Naveen. Tyranitar uses Rock Slide and creates a damaging Sand Tomb cyclone. Its Stone Edge charge initially attacks in a line and later expands to three lines, so move laterally rather than retreating straight backward. Defeat it to obtain Tyranitarite.

Main Mission 34, A Rogue Mega Starmie, begins in the Bleu District with Lida. Two Rust Syndicate grunts block the route; defeat them, then battle Philippe before reaching Starmie. Philippe uses Steelix, Scizor, Aggron, and Skarmory, so bring reliable Fire-, Ground-, or Fighting-type coverage and heal before continuing. During the Mega Starmie fight, avoid its fast Aqua Jet movement and close-range Zen Headbutt. When it charges purple, move away from its rapid rushes and the Hydro Pump fired at the end of each run. Defeat it to obtain Starminite.

• Report to Vinnie at Quasartico Inc. to begin Main Mission 31.
• Defeat Rogue Mega Dragonite in the Vert District and obtain Dragonitite.
• Defeat Rogue Mega Tyranitar in the Jaune District with Naveen and obtain Tyranitarite.
• Defeat Philippe and Rogue Mega Starmie in the Bleu District and obtain Starminite.
• Confirm that Main Mission 34 is complete before beginning the Rank A investigation.

Main Mission 35: find Grisham and reach Rank A

After Main Mission 34, the next promotion opponent is Grisham, but the available photograph gives little information. Return to Hotel Z for the briefing, then fast travel to the Looker Bureau and speak with Emma. Emma tests whether you are prepared with a battle using Ampharos, Mawile, Lopunny, Lucario, and Malamar. Defeat her, then listen to the information about Team Flare and Grisham.

Travel to the Pokémon Research Lab and speak with Mable. After asking about Grisham, go to the Nouveau Café in Centrico Plaza. The meeting there sends you to the abandoned Lysandre Café. At that location, Griselle challenges you. Her team includes Talonflame, Camerupt, Aerodactyl, Metagross, and Pyroar, so prepare Water-, Rock-, Ground-, and Fighting-type coverage and watch for overlapping area attacks.

After defeating Griselle, enter Lysandre Labs through the café. Explore the facility, defeat wild Pokémon, and collect the Key Cards needed to reach the Elevator Key. Continue to B3F and examine the records concerning the life-restoring machine and the ultimate weapon. When the investigation ends, return to Hotel Z and go to the roof with AZ.

The final promotion battle begins after you obtain the Challenger’s Ticket and speak with Grisham. Grisham’s team is Pangoro, Malamar, Pyroar, Tyranitar, Salamence, and Mega Charizard X, ranging from Level 61 to Level 63. Use Fairy- and Fighting-type attacks against Pangoro and Malamar, Water- or Ground-type attacks against Pyroar and Tyranitar, and Ice-, Dragon-, or Fairy-type coverage for Salamence. Save Mega Evolution for Mega Charizard X or another dangerous phase, and keep the Trainer clear of its line attacks.

Defeat Grisham to complete Main Mission 35 and reach Rank A. L and Zygarde then appear, and the story warns that Prism Tower is approaching a breaking point. This is the exact completion point for this chapter; Main Mission 36, Prism Tower’s Dark Turn, unlocks afterward.

• Defeat Emma at the Looker Bureau and speak with Mable at the Pokémon Research Lab.
• Follow the Nouveau Café lead to the abandoned Lysandre Café and defeat Griselle.
• Explore Lysandre Labs, collect the required Key Cards and Elevator Key, reach B3F, and examine the records.
• Return to Hotel Z, obtain the Challenger’s Ticket, and defeat Grisham and Mega Charizard X.
• Confirm Rank A and Main Mission 35 completion, then verify that Main Mission 36, Prism Tower’s Dark Turn, is available.

Recover from a failed mission without repeating the same mistake

If a Rogue Mega fight or promotion match goes badly, identify the cause before retrying. A repeated type disadvantage calls for a party change; repeated damage from area attacks calls for better movement; and running out of healing items means the next attempt should begin with a city resupply. Do not enter another boss arena after several ordinary battles if multiple Pokémon are already injured.

During real-time battles, move the Trainer away from warning zones while the active Pokémon attacks. Swap when a matchup is poor, when a move is unavailable at the wrong moment, or when another Pokémon can exploit the target’s weakness. Use Mega Evolution for the Rogue Mega’s dangerous phase or the decisive promotion opponent rather than routine encounters.

Recommended return points are after Main Missions 13, 18, 23, 25, 29, 30, and 34. At each checkpoint, heal the party, review move coverage, restock recovery and status items, check the Box for replacement Pokémon, and confirm the next mission marker before traveling. The later promotion battles are close enough in level that entering with several underleveled members can make the sequence unnecessarily difficult.

• Change your lead, matchup, movement plan, or inventory before retrying a failed encounter.
• Heal and restock after each three-boss Rogue Mega sequence and before every tournament chain.
• Keep at least one reliable answer for Fairy, Dragon, Rock, Ground, and Steel threats before the Rank A sequence.

1. Prepare the team and arena approach

Before entering a Rogue Mega mission, heal the whole party at a Pokémon Center and check the moves on the Pokémon you intend to use. Build around more than one useful matchup. A type advantage helps, but it does not replace movement because the boss can damage the Trainer and the active Pokémon with wide attacks, projectiles, shockwaves, and lingering hazards.

Bring a mixture of close-range and ranged options when possible. A close-range move can deal strong damage during a recovery window, while a ranged move lets your Pokémon contribute without standing directly beside a boss. Check that the Pokémon you plan to Mega Evolve is holding the correct Mega Stone and that it is eligible to Mega Evolve. Do not assume that one over-leveled attacker can carry every encounter.

Stock healing and status-recovery items before leaving the city. Items are useful for ordinary battles and recovery between encounters, but they do not remove the need to protect the Trainer. If the Trainer is knocked out, the Rogue Mega battle must be retried, so avoid entering an arena with low Trainer health or an unprepared party.

• Heal the entire party before departing
• Use at least two practical battle roles
• Confirm the intended Mega Stone is equipped
• Carry healing and status-recovery items
• Enter with the Trainer in good condition

2. Learn the boss pattern before spending the gauge

At the start of a fight, send out a suitable Pokémon but do not immediately spend every powerful option. Watch one attack cycle and identify how the boss signals danger. Common warnings include a charge animation, an attack line aimed at the Trainer, a visible area effect, a projectile pattern, a shockwave, or a hazard appearing on the ground. The warning is the time to reposition, not to stand still and trade damage.

Keep the Trainer moving throughout the encounter. On Nintendo Switch, use the dodge command when an attack is about to connect rather than repeatedly dodging without watching the telegraph. Wide attacks are often easier to avoid by moving sideways or around the edge of the marked area than by running directly away. Keep enough open space behind the Trainer to avoid being forced into a wall or an existing hazard.

Your Pokémon also needs room to operate. If the boss is covering one part of the arena with poison, sludge, fire, or another lingering effect, recall the Pokémon or move it to a clear section before issuing another attack. Do not let the Trainer dodge safely while leaving the active Pokémon standing inside the danger zone.

• Observe the first attack cycle
• Identify marked impact areas and projectile lines
• Keep an escape route open
• Move the Pokémon away from lingering hazards
• Use dodge timing instead of standing still

3. Collect Mega Orbs without chasing danger

Attacking a Rogue Mega Pokémon causes Mega Orbs to appear. Collecting them fills the Mega gauge, which can be used to Mega Evolve a compatible Pokémon or power up certain moves. Treat the orbs as a reason to reposition, not as an order to run through an active attack. Wait for a large attack to finish, then collect the nearest safe orbs before returning to damage.

Do not spend the entire gauge on Plus Moves at the beginning unless the extra damage prevents an immediate problem. Plus Moves consume Mega gauge, which can delay the Mega Evolution you may need later. A good default is to use ordinary moves while learning the pattern, gather energy, and reserve the gauge for a dangerous phase or a clear damage window.

If the boss drops several orbs in different directions, take the safest group first. Missing one orb is better than losing the Trainer’s health while crossing a hazard. Continue attacking after the boss recovers so that more energy becomes available, but never let the gauge objective distract you from an incoming attack.

• Attack to make Mega Orbs appear
• Collect only orbs on a safe route
• Reserve gauge for Mega Evolution or a decisive Plus Move
• Avoid crossing active hazards for a single orb
• Watch the Trainer’s health while collecting

4. Handle adds and multi-target pressure

When a boss summons additional Pokémon, decide whether they are directly threatening your ability to move or attack. Defeat adds first if they surround the Trainer, apply status conditions, interrupt the active Pokémon, or place overlapping hazards across the arena. If they are distant and harmless while the boss is exposed, continue attacking the boss and remove the adds when the recovery window ends.

Use area moves only when their indicator covers the targets without also trapping your Pokémon. Do not chase a small add into the boss’s attack range. Keep the Trainer’s position separate from the Pokémon’s target: you can move the Trainer out of danger while the Pokémon finishes an attack, then recall it before the boss’s next telegraphed strike.

Some bosses use summons as part of their pattern rather than as permanent enemies. In that situation, prioritize survival and the main objective instead of spending all cooldowns clearing every target. The correct priority changes from fight to fight; there is no universal rule that the boss or the adds must always come first.

• Clear adds that restrict movement or apply status
• Ignore distant adds during a safe boss opening when appropriate
• Use area moves only with safe placement
• Do not chase minor enemies into a boss attack
• Reassess target priority after each phase change

5. Swap and attack around cooldowns

Swap Pokémon when the current matchup is poor, when a move set cannot safely reach the boss, or when the active Pokémon is standing in a hazard. Rotation also prevents one member from taking every hit. Recall an injured Pokémon before it receives the final blow, then send out a healthier member after the attack pattern has moved away.

Plan the replacement’s landing position. Never send a Pokémon directly into a marked impact area or beside a boss preparing a contact attack. A durable Pokémon can occupy the boss during a short opening, while a ranged attacker works from a safer angle. When the boss begins a long animation, use the opportunity to attack, collect nearby Mega Orbs, or heal if the Trainer is also safe.

Cooldowns make timing important. Do not spend every move at once and then remain exposed while waiting. Use one attack, reposition, and prepare the next move while watching the boss. If the current Pokémon has no safe attack available, recall it rather than forcing a low-value exchange.

• Swap for matchup, health, range, or positioning
• Recall Pokémon before they faint when possible
• Send replacements into clear ground
• Use long boss animations as attack or recovery windows
• Avoid exhausting every move while exposed

6. Use Mega Evolution at a meaningful opening

Mega Evolution is temporary and should solve a specific problem. Good moments include a later phase with more hazards, a boss recovery window, a dangerous summon sequence, or an opening in which the Mega Pokémon can attack continuously. Activating it at the beginning is not automatically wrong, but doing so may leave you without the powered-up option when the fight becomes more crowded.

Before activating, move the Trainer out of the immediate danger zone and make sure the chosen Pokémon can reach the target. After Mega Evolution, continue dodging. The transformation increases battle power but does not make the Trainer or Pokémon immune to hazards, projectiles, or poorly timed attacks.

If a boss is nearly defeated, do not spend the last of the gauge merely to end the fight faster unless the remaining attacks are too dangerous to survive. It is often better to keep moving, land ordinary attacks during recovery windows, and preserve Mega energy for the next linked encounter when the mission includes more than one major battle.

• Use Mega Evolution to answer a dangerous phase
• Activate during a recovery or attack opening
• Keep dodging after transformation
• Do not waste the gauge on a nearly defeated boss
• Preserve energy when more linked battles follow

7. Recover from a failing attempt

If the party is injured, stop pursuing damage and create distance. Move in a broad curve or around the safe edge of the arena while watching the boss’s aim. Heal after a large attack has finished or while the boss is separated from the Trainer by a hazard or long animation. Healing in the center of an exposed attack lane can turn a recoverable attempt into a defeat.

When a Pokémon faints, send out a durable or well-matched replacement if one is available. Revive or heal the fainted member only after the arena is stable. If the Trainer is repeatedly being hit, change the movement plan first: stay farther from the boss, use the arena’s clear lanes, and recall the Pokémon during large attacks instead of trying to maintain damage at all times.

If the mission restarts after the Trainer is knocked out, treat the first attempt as pattern learning. Note which attack caused the failure, which hazards appeared, and when the boss summoned adds. Return to the city when the game allows it, heal, adjust the team or held Mega Stone, and try again rather than spending all supplies without changing the plan.

• Create distance before healing
• Use a stable opening to revive or restore a Pokémon
• Recall Pokémon during large unavoidable-looking attacks
• Change the movement plan after repeated Trainer damage
• Retry with a specific adjustment instead of repeating the same attempt

8. Apply the plan to the late main-story sequence

The final main-story operation is not one isolated boss exchange. Operation Protect Lumiose leads through routes containing multiple Rogue Mega Pokémon before the final Hyperrogue Ange Floette confrontation. Heal and review the party whenever the mission provides a safe opportunity, and do not spend all healing or Mega resources on the first fight in the sequence.

Against Hyperrogue Ange Floette, follow the objective markers and attack the exposed targets rather than treating the central threat as a normal Pokémon battle. Destroy the blue and red flowers when they are active, use available debris as cover from the Light of Ruin attacks, and keep the Trainer moving between safe positions. The encounter changes into a scripted Zygarde phase: when the game gives control of Mega Zygarde and the Nihil Light objective, aim that attack at the Light of Ruin to end the threat. Your normal party damage is not the sole solution to this final sequence.

After the last attack, wait through the defeat scene and objective update. Do not leave the area or assume completion merely because a health bar disappears. The mission is complete when the scripted resolution and return sequence have finished and the primary mission log advances.

• Keep resources for the linked Rogue Mega encounters
• Defeat the required Rogue Mega opponents on the route
• Destroy the active colored flowers during the Ange Floette fight
• Use debris and safe positioning against Light of Ruin
• Direct Mega Zygarde’s Nihil Light at the final attack
• Wait for the mission update after the final scene

Complete Reaching Rank A and confirm the finale is available

Finish Main Mission 35, Reaching Rank A, including the Challenger's Ticket and promotion battle. After the mission resolves, return to Hotel Z and follow the story conversation with AZ. Main Mission 36, Prism Tower's Dark Turn, is the next main-story mission and the prerequisite for entering the closing sequence.

Open the mission list and confirm that Reaching Rank A is marked complete and Prism Tower's Dark Turn is active. Optional side missions, Pokédex progress and collecting every available Mega Stone are not universal requirements for unlocking this mission. They can be postponed if you prefer to finish the campaign first.

• Main Mission 35, Reaching Rank A, is marked complete.
• Prism Tower's Dark Turn is active in the main-mission list.
• The Challenger's Ticket and promotion sequence are no longer listed as unfinished objectives.

Use Hotel Z as the last unrestricted preparation point

Start Main Mission 36 only after completing errands that need normal city access. Its opening events take place around Hotel Z and the rooftop before the objective sends you toward Prism Tower. Once you advance to the tower objective, ordinary fast travel is restricted and you cannot count on visiting distant shops, changing your team or completing unrelated city tasks.

Heal the party, check each Pokémon's moves and restock before approaching the marked objective. Carry the strongest ordinary healing items currently available to you, along with status-recovery and revival supplies if you have them. Keep several usable Poké Balls and other mission essentials in reserve rather than spending all of them during preliminary battles.

• The full active party is healed.
• Healing, status-recovery and revival supplies are stocked.
• Moves, held or equipped items and party order have been checked.
• Errands requiring distant city services are finished or deliberately postponed.

Build a balanced party for the closing missions

Use six Pokémon that can all contribute. Favor different types, attack ranges and defensive profiles instead of bringing one over-leveled carry with five weak reserves. A practical team has a durable switch-in, a fast finisher, reliable physical and special damage, and coverage for weaknesses your own team struggles to answer. Include at least one Pokémon that can fight effectively without depending on Mega Evolution.

The late-story Trainer battles use Pokémon around the high 50s through mid-60s, including teams in the level-61-to-64 range during the final preparation and Prism Tower missions. A reasonable preparation target is a main team in that range, with your lead and intended Mega Evolution candidate kept especially healthy and well equipped. You can succeed below that target by exploiting timing, movement and type matchups, but several underdeveloped party members will make the extended final sequence less forgiving.

• Six functional Pokémon are assigned to the party.
• The party is not dependent on one Pokémon or one attack type.
• At least one member can remain effective if your Mega-capable Pokémon is defeated.
• Your intended Mega candidate has suitable moves and is ready to Mega Evolve.

Approach Prism Tower only when you are ready

At the start of Prism Tower's Dark Turn, follow the Hotel Z and rooftop objectives until the story sends you to Prism Tower. The mission includes a battle against Taunie or Urbain before the tower crisis develops, so arrange your lead and party order before approaching the marked group. The opposing team includes Pokémon from level 62 through level 64, making a properly prepared full party preferable to a single specialist.

During the real-time battle, move away from visible attack areas instead of waiting for damage to resolve. Recall a Pokémon from a large telegraphed effect, swap when the matchup is poor and avoid spending Mega Evolution merely to finish a nearly defeated opponent. After the battle and subsequent scenes, the mission continues into the tower crisis rather than returning you to a normal shopping loop.

• The final party order is set before traveling to Prism Tower.
• The Mega Evolution candidate can be sent out without beginning already weakened.
• You have completed final move, evolution and item changes at Hotel Z.

Preserve resources for Operation Protect Lumiose

Main Mission 37 follows Prism Tower's Dark Turn. Its objective is to reach Zygarde in the Magenta District while Lumiose City is threatened by widespread Rogue Mega Evolution. Other Trainers appear through the Holo Caster and open routes or assist with sections of the mission. Follow the marked objectives, defeat the Rogue Mega Pokémon blocking each route and use the available allied support as part of your pacing rather than rushing ahead alone.

When you reach Zygarde, the mission changes into the Ange confrontation. The ground phase requires you to defeat the two attacking flowers while responding to Ange's Light of Ruin. When the beam is telegraphed, move beneath Complete Forme Zygarde for protection. The flowers do not present a normal type weakness, so prioritize safe positioning and steady damage. After enough flower defeats, Zygarde charges Core Enforcer. On the third successful flower cycle, Core Enforcer defeats Ange in the first phase.

Ange then powers up and unleashes another Light of Ruin. The Pebble Zygarde gave you changes into the Zygardite. Use it to Mega Evolve Zygarde, then target the attack and use Mega Zygarde's Nihil Light to stop the blast and finish the confrontation. Do not spend every healing item during the route to Zygarde. Swap out before a Pokémon is nearly defeated, keep at least one healthy reserve for the final confrontation and preserve recovery resources for the dangerous phases.

• The team can handle repeated Rogue Mega encounters rather than only one battle.
• Mega Evolution and major healing supplies are reserved for a dangerous phase.
• You know to shelter beneath Complete Forme Zygarde during Light of Ruin.
• The Zygardite and Mega Zygarde sequence is available for the final Ange phase.
• Nihil Light is available to stop the final Light of Ruin.

Protect the save before entering the locked-down sequence

Save normally before starting Prism Tower's Dark Turn and verify that the in-game save has completed. Pokémon Legends: Z-A does not support Nintendo Switch Save Data Cloud Backup, so Nintendo Switch Online cannot provide a cloud rollback for this game. Do not waste time looking for a backup timestamp in the cloud-save menu.

If you are moving the save to another console, use Nintendo's official Transfer Your Save Data or system-transfer procedure with the source and target systems prepared. A transfer moves the save rather than creating a permanent duplicate, and Nintendo warns that transferred data may be removed from the source system. Treat the completed in-game save as your immediate recovery point and do not delete the software or experiment with unsupported save manipulation.

If the finale provides a retry or checkpoint after failure, use that option. Otherwise, return to the latest valid in-game save, heal and restock before trying again. This preparation protects the playable save without falsely promising a second branch or duplicate supply cache.

• The correct Nintendo Account and user profile are selected.
• The normal in-game save completed before Main Mission 36 begins.
• You understand that Pokémon Legends: Z-A does not support Save Data Cloud Backup.
• If moving consoles, you know to use Nintendo's official save-data transfer procedure.
• A failed attempt has a recovery plan using the available checkpoint, retry or latest save.

1. Start Operation Protect Lumiose

Complete Main Mission 36, Prism Tower's Dark Turn. After the battle and the following scenes, speak with Vinnie when the game gives you the opportunity to proceed. This starts Main Mission 37, Operation Protect Lumiose. Confirm that the mission is active in the main mission log before leaving for the objective.

The finale does not require Pokédex completion, a particular number of side missions, or Mega Dimension ownership. If Main Mission 37 is not active, return to the current Main Mission 36 objective and finish the conversation or battle that follows the Prism Tower sequence.

Heal before setting out and refill recovery items. The route contains several separate Rogue Mega battles, so prepare for repeated encounters instead of treating the journey as one fight. A balanced party is more useful than relying on one Pokémon, although the story supplies the Zygarde sequence needed for the final attack.

• Main Mission 36 is complete.
• You have spoken with Vinnie after the Prism Tower sequence.
• Main Mission 37, Operation Protect Lumiose, is active.
• The party is healed and recovery items are stocked.

2. Cross the first section of Lumiose City

Follow the marked route across the rooftops and down to the street. The first battle is against Mega Gengar and Mega Heracross. Defeat both, then continue south until the route reaches a dead end. Turn left through the park and approach Ivor and Gwynn at the next objective marker.

The next battle contains Mega Pidgeot, Mega Kangaskhan, and Mega Garchomp. Use type advantages when convenient, including Fighting attacks against Mega Kangaskhan and Ice attacks against Mega Pidgeot and Mega Garchomp, but prioritize avoiding large attack indicators and keeping your active Pokémon healthy.

After the battle, follow Ivor. Cross the makeshift bridge, turn left up the stairs, then turn around and use the walkway beside the canal. Take the next stairs and follow the upper path to the marked location. Mega Steelix and Mega Blastoise must be defeated there.

These battles are separated by movement through the city. Swap out weakened Pokémon and use healing between encounters when possible. Do not spend every recovery item in the opening section, because more Rogue Mega battles remain on the route.

• Defeat Mega Gengar and Mega Heracross.
• Reach Ivor and Gwynn through the park.
• Defeat Mega Pidgeot, Mega Kangaskhan, and Mega Garchomp.
• Cross the bridge and canal route.
• Defeat Mega Steelix and Mega Blastoise.

3. Navigate the scaffolding route

Continue to Tarragon and Canari, then climb the short stairs into the scaffolding challenge course. Climb as far as the route allows. Use the platform containing an item as a landmark, then move toward the opening beneath the four cones and continue upward.

At the top, drop through the hole and descend the stairs between the spotlights. Follow the next objective marker to Mega Aggron and Mega Salamence. Defeat them, then go straight ahead, turn left, and enter the open building door on the right. Mega Gardevoir and Mega Gallade are inside.

If you miss a platform, look for the lower walkway that reconnects with the marked route. Optional items are not required for completion, so avoid risky detours when your party is already damaged.

• Reach the item platform in the scaffolding course.
• Pass through the opening below the four cones.
• Drop through the upper hole.
• Descend between the spotlights.
• Defeat Mega Aggron and Mega Salamence.
• Enter the open building and defeat Mega Gardevoir and Mega Gallade.

4. Reach Zygarde

Proceed to the next marker and climb the people ladder. Follow the route across the rooftops, scaffolding piles, and the roots extending from Prism Tower.

Mega Metagross, Mega Aerodactyl, and Mega Alakazam block the final approach. Defeat them, then follow the mission marker and the fleeing Zygarde. The resulting scenes bring you to the final arena and begin the Hyperrogue Ange Floette encounter.

• Climb the people ladder.
• Cross the rooftops, scaffolding, and tower roots.
• Defeat Mega Metagross, Mega Aerodactyl, and Mega Alakazam.
• Follow Zygarde to the final arena.

5. Defeat the flowers and use Zygarde's protection

The first combat phase targets two flowers, one red and one blue. Attack them while keeping your Trainer mobile. They use ranged attacks and close electrical attacks, and the encounter does not present a normal stated weakness to exploit, so use dependable damage and concentrate on positioning.

When the flowers retreat underground and Light of Ruin begins charging, move beneath Complete Forme Zygarde. The green protective area is the intended safe position. Keep your active Pokémon inside it as well, or recall the Pokémon if it is taking continuous damage outside the shield.

Later flower phases add poison areas and forward beams. Stay out of marked poison zones, sidestep the beams, and recall a Pokémon if the beam is damaging it continuously. When a flower looks upward and signals the ground-targeting attack, press Y to dodge away from the marked location.

Repeat the flower phase as required. Defeating the flowers creates opportunities for Zygarde to attack Ange, but the encounter proceeds through its scripted sequence rather than ending after ordinary damage alone.

• Attack both flowers while avoiding their telegraphed attacks.
• Move under Complete Forme Zygarde during Light of Ruin.
• Avoid poison areas and forward beams.
• Dodge the marked ground attack with Y.
• Repeat the flower phase until the story advances to the final Zygarde sequence.

6. Complete the Mega Zygarde sequence

When control shifts to Zygarde, hold ZL to target the indicated tower or Light of Ruin target, then use the displayed Zygarde attack prompt. During another Light of Ruin charge, remain within Zygarde's protective field until the next transition.

When the pebble reacts, select it and choose Grip Tightly. Follow the on-screen Mega Evolution prompt. Zygarde then becomes Mega Zygarde, and the final attack prompt changes accordingly.

Hold ZL to target Light of Ruin and use the displayed Mega Zygarde attack. This interrupts the attack and completes the final confrontation. Do not try to leave the arena or improvise a separate boss strategy during this section; it is an objective-driven sequence.

If you are defeated, use the recovery option offered by the game or reload the latest save. Depending on the checkpoint, you may need to repeat part of the arena sequence, so do not assume every individual action is preserved.

• Target the indicated objective with ZL.
• Use Zygarde's prompted attack.
• Choose Grip Tightly when the pebble reacts.
• Activate Mega Evolution.
• Target Light of Ruin and use the prompted Mega Zygarde attack.

7. Watch the ending and verify base-game completion

After Ange is defeated, allow the Lumiose City resolution scenes and credits to play. Continue through the credits to the post-credits scene and complete the prompted dialogue or button input instead of returning to the title screen.

The base-game campaign is complete when Main Mission 37 is finished and the ending and credits have played. Main Mission 38, The Future of Lumiose City, begins afterward and is a postgame primary mission. Its appearance is expected and does not invalidate completion of the base-game story.

When control returns, check the main mission log. Operation Protect Lumiose should be marked complete, while The Future of Lumiose City should be active or ready to begin. Load the save normally and confirm that Lumiose City control has returned.

The credits do not by themselves activate Mega Dimension. If you own the DLC, confirm that it is purchased and installed, then continue through the postgame until the DLC's in-game start trigger appears. The DLC adds story content after the main story rather than replacing the base-game ending.

• Main Mission 37 is marked complete.
• The ending and credits have played through.
• The post-credits scene has been completed.
• Main Mission 38 is available or active as a postgame mission.
• The save loads normally with Lumiose City accessible.
• Mega Dimension is checked separately through ownership, installation, and its postgame trigger.

1. Finish the ending and return to the completed save

Allow the final battle, ending scenes, credits, and return to the save file to finish before closing the software. When play resumes, remain on the completed adventure rather than starting a new file. The postgame continues from this save and does not require a separate postgame mode.

Before leaving Hotel Z, check the table in your bedroom for AZ’s Lucario if you want the optional gift. Then go down to the lobby and speak with the characters gathered there. The conversation leads to Vinnie’s request to meet in Centrico Plaza and begins Main Mission 38, The Future of Lumiose City.

The postgame is not limited to free-roam. Main Missions 38 through 42 add structured objectives, legendary encounters, and further battle progression. Open the mission list after each major scene so you can distinguish the active main mission from optional side missions.

• Let the credits and save transition finish.
• Reload the completed adventure file.
• Check the bedroom table for AZ’s optional Lucario.
• Open the mission list and confirm Main Mission 38 is available.

2. Complete Main Mission 38 at Wild Zone 20

Follow the marker from Hotel Z to Centrico Plaza and speak with Jett and Vinnie outside Wild Zone 20. This is the postgame story checkpoint that establishes what will happen to the Z-A Royale and unlocks the next stage of the campaign.

When Vinnie asks about your wish, select “I want us all to battle Pokémon together!” This is the choice that advances the mission. The other responses do not permanently branch the story; the dialogue returns to the available choices until the progression option is selected.

After the conversation, the Z-A Royale remains available indefinitely and Main Mission 39, The Infinite Z-A Royale, opens. Wild Zone 20 is also usable from this point. If the zone is not immediately visible on your map, finish the Centrico Plaza conversation and wait for the mission update before searching for its fast-travel point.

• Travel to Centrico Plaza.
• Speak with Jett and Vinnie outside Wild Zone 20.
• Choose the battle-focused wish that advances the story.
• Confirm that Main Mission 38 is complete and Main Mission 39 is listed.

3. Use Wild Zone 20 for postgame encounters and training

Wild Zone 20 is in the middle of Centrico Plaza and is the final numbered Wild Zone added to the base-game postgame. It contains the three Z-A starter Pokémon—Chikorita, Totodile, and Tepig—and the Kanto starter trio, allowing you to obtain starters you did not select earlier. Spawns can vary, so leave and return or make another circuit if the Pokémon you want is not present.

The zone also contains high-level encounters and Alpha Pokémon. Heal at a Pokémon Center, restock capture supplies, and adjust your party before entering. Use the area for experience, research tasks, evolution targets, and team replacements, but avoid treating every Alpha as a required fight.

Wild Zone 20 is also the destination for the final Zygarde mission later in the postgame. Do not assume that finding Zygarde there immediately after unlocking the zone begins the legendary sequence; first complete the prerequisite missions described below.

• Confirm Wild Zone 20 is unlocked in Centrico Plaza.
• Search it for Chikorita, Totodile, Tepig, and the Kanto starters.
• Use the zone for training and optional Pokédex progress.
• Restock before challenging its stronger Alpha encounters.

4. Enter Infinite Z-A Royale reward matches

Main Mission 39 keeps the nighttime Z-A Royale active and adds reward matches. Earn a Challenger’s Ticket through the normal Z-A Royale activity, then visit the receptionist inside the Quasartico Inc. building to exchange the ticket for a reward match.

Reward matches are separate from promotion matches. They do not advance you through another rank; instead, they provide rewards such as training resources and other useful items. Treat each match as an independent challenge, and heal or change your party between attempts rather than spending the entire inventory during one run.

Winning 15 Infinite Z-A Royale reward matches grants Eternal Flower Floette and Floettite. This is optional for basic postgame access but is a meaningful completion target if you want the special Pokémon and its Mega Evolution. Winning 20 total reward matches unlocks the optional Le Super-Tournoi de Jacinthe O side mission.

• Earn a Challenger’s Ticket through the Z-A Royale.
• Visit the Quasartico Inc. receptionist.
• Exchange tickets for reward matches.
• Track 15 wins for Eternal Flower Floette and Floettite.
• Track 20 wins if you want the Jacinthe tournament side mission.

5. Complete the legendary postgame missions in order

After you earn a Challenger’s Ticket and complete a reward match, return to Hotel Z when Lida contacts you. This starts the legendary sequence with Main Mission 40, The One That Gives, and Main Mission 41, The One That Takes.

Main Mission 40 leads through Mabel’s investigation and anomalous Alpha Pokémon before sending you to Xerneas. Main Mission 41 uses Grisham and Quasartico-related objectives before directing you to Yveltal. Both legendary encounters provide capture opportunities during their battles, so bring healing items and suitable status or capture supplies rather than assuming they are ordinary wild encounters.

Once both missions are complete and Xerneas and Yveltal have been caught, return to Hotel Z. L then begins Main Mission 42, To Keep the World in Balance. Defeat L’s battle, travel to Wild Zone 20, and follow the marker beneath Prism Tower to begin the Zygarde encounter.

Zygarde’s battle proceeds through its 10% Forme, 50% Forme, and Complete Forme. Ice, Dragon, and Fairy attacks are useful against it, but movement is equally important: recall a Pokémon when a large area attack is telegraphed and move the Trainer into the marked safe space. After defeating Complete Forme Zygarde, throw a Poké Ball to capture it. L gives you the Zygarde Cube afterward, and Main Mission 42 ends after the following scene.

• Complete one Infinite Z-A Royale reward match.
• Return to Hotel Z when Lida calls.
• Catch Xerneas during Main Mission 40.
• Catch Yveltal during Main Mission 41.
• Return to Hotel Z and begin Main Mission 42 with L.
• Catch Zygarde in Wild Zone 20.
• Receive the Zygarde Cube after the capture.

6. Check the postgame services and optional city content

The Judge function becomes available after clearing the game. Use it to inspect the individual values of captured Pokémon before investing training items in a postgame team or Infinite Z-A Royale specialist.

Visit Quasartico Inc. to check the expanded Mega Shard Exchange. Postgame stock includes experience supplies and training-related items. Mega Shards come from breaking Mega Crystal clusters around Lumiose City, so spend them periodically if you are approaching the carrying limit.

Visit the Stone Emporium after the ending. Its stock expands with additional Evolution Stones and Mega Stones, including stones associated with Z-A starter Pokémon you did not choose. Racine Construction also gains a postgame shop with additional held and trade-evolution items.

Side missions are distributed across the city rather than appearing at one single hub. Review the mission list, inspect map markers, and speak with NPCs near the listed objective. If a request is missing, complete its stated prerequisite instead of repeatedly checking the same location.

• Use the Judge function on potential team members.
• Check Quasartico Inc.’s Mega Shard Exchange.
• Inspect the expanded Stone Emporium stock.
• Visit Racine Construction for its postgame shop.
• Review map markers and side-mission prerequisites.

7. Continue from the completed save and handle DLC separately

Keep this completed save as your primary postgame file. You can move between Wild Zone 20, Quasartico Inc., Hotel Z, the Stone Emporium, side missions, and legendary objectives without starting over. A useful routine is to check the mission list, heal and restock, complete one marked objective, then return to the city before beginning another high-level battle.

Mega Dimension is paid downloadable content and is available only after the base-game ending has been reached. This chapter does not contain its installation checks or opening route. Use Chapter 15 for the authoritative steps covering DLC recognition, the completed-save requirement, Hotel Z, and the rooftop meeting that begins the expansion.

• Preserve the save that has reached the base-game ending.
• Use the completed file for all postgame activities.
• Treat Mega Dimension as a separate chapter and content path.
• Follow Chapter 15 when you are ready to begin the DLC.

1. Confirm that you own the correct content

Use the full Pokémon Legends: Z-A game for Nintendo Switch. The Mega Dimension DLC is sold separately and works with both the standard Nintendo Switch game and the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. You do not need to purchase the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack to access Mega Dimension on Nintendo Switch.

Open Nintendo eShop with the Nintendo Account that purchased the DLC and search for Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension DLC. The product page should show Purchased. If it shows a price, either the DLC has not been bought or you are using a Nintendo Account that does not own it.

For a physical copy, keep the Pokémon Legends: Z-A game card inserted when you play. For a digital copy, make sure the base game and DLC are available through the appropriate Nintendo Account and virtual game card. Nintendo states that a copy of the full base game must be present on the system as either a physical or virtual game card.

• The full Nintendo Switch version of Pokémon Legends: Z-A is available.
• The Mega Dimension DLC page shows Purchased for the owning Nintendo Account.
• You have not mistaken the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack for the DLC.
• The physical game card is inserted, or the relevant virtual game cards are loaded.

2. Update the system and software

Connect the Nintendo Switch to the internet and install any available system update. Then highlight Pokémon Legends: Z-A on the HOME Menu without starting it, press the + or − Button, choose Software Update, and select Via the Internet. The same menu shows the installed software version beneath the game title.

Nintendo’s current update history lists version 2.0.2 as released on March 18, 2026. Use the latest version offered by your console if a newer official update has appeared since then. Version 2.0.0 introduced the additional Mega Dimension story content and states that the base-game main story must be completed before that story can progress.

Start the game after updating and inspect the title screen. A Downloadable content ready icon in the lower-right area is Nintendo’s check that the DLC is installed and available to the selected user. This icon confirms installation and access; it does not bypass the main-story requirement.

• The Nintendo Switch system is updated.
• Pokémon Legends: Z-A has been updated through Software Update and Via the Internet.
• The installed version is checked from the HOME Menu.
• The title screen displays the Downloadable content ready icon.

3. Finish the base-game main story

Mega Dimension is post-main-story content. Complete the base-game campaign through its final sequence and allow the ending and credits to play. Reaching a late main mission, reaching Rank A, or completing an objective before the ending is not enough.

You do not need to clear every optional request, collectible objective, or separate postgame mission before starting Mega Dimension. The required story gate is completion of Pokémon Legends: Z-A’s main story. Use the save file on which the ending was completed.

After the credits, save normally and return to the title screen if necessary. Then load the completed campaign file with the same user who will play the DLC. This preserves the existing party, items, story state, and other progress for the additional content.

• The final base-game story sequence is complete.
• The ending and credits have played on the save being used.
• The completed campaign save has been loaded after the credits.
• Optional postgame missions have not been treated as mandatory prerequisites.

4. Start the DLC from Hotel Z’s rooftop

Continue from the completed postgame save in Lumiose City. When the additional story is available, the game prompts you to go to the Hotel Z rooftop and start a new side mission.

Follow the objective marker to Hotel Z, use the available route to reach the rooftop, and speak with the characters indicated by the mission objective. Accept the side mission to begin the DLC storyline. There is no need to create a separate DLC save or select a new campaign from the title screen.

The opening story concerns spatial distortions appearing around Lumiose City. The investigation leads into Hyperspace Lumiose and continues the Team MZ storyline, with Hoopa involved in the hyperspace events. Treat this as a continuation of the completed Lumiose City campaign rather than as a separate game mode.

• The completed postgame save is active.
• The game has directed you to Hotel Z’s rooftop.
• The rooftop characters have been spoken to.
• The new side mission has been accepted.
• The spatial-distortion investigation has begun.

5. Prepare your existing party before entering Hyperspace

Heal the party before accepting the first excursion or investigation objective. Restock the recovery items you normally use in real-time battles, check your move selections, and confirm that your lead Pokémon is appropriate for unfamiliar encounters.

Bring a balanced group instead of relying on one Pokémon. Keep at least one reserve that covers a different weakness or combat role, and select a Mega-capable Pokémon whose timing and moves you already understand. These preparations make the opening DLC objectives safer, but they are not separate DLC unlock requirements.

Do not expect every new Mega Evolution to be awarded at the Hotel Z rooftop. Mega Raichu X, Mega Raichu Y, Mega Chimecho, Mega Baxcalibur, and other Mega-related content are introduced or obtained as the additional story and its objectives progress. Follow the active mission and use each reward or unlock notification as the confirmation that a feature is available.

Hyperspace Lumiose introduces new investigations, encounters, and spatial-distortion objectives. Enter the first excursion with healing supplies available, pay attention to the area’s hazards, and return to Lumiose City when the mission allows if your resources are running low.

• The party is healed before the first DLC excursion.
• Recovery items and useful battle supplies are stocked.
• The team includes an alternate role or type option.
• A preferred Mega-capable Pokémon is ready for use.
• The opening Hotel Z rooftop side mission is active.

1. Confirm the DLC starting conditions

Finish the base-game campaign and view its ending before starting Mega Dimension. Install the DLC and load the completed save. The DLC begins from Hotel Z after the game recognizes the completed base-game story. Main Missions 38–42 are optional postgame content and are not required to unlock the DLC start; do not delay Mega Dimension for them.

Use the completed save rather than a pre-ending save. If the new activity is not available, confirm that the DLC is installed for the same Nintendo Switch user and that the game has been updated. Take the elevator to the roof of Hotel Z and meet Ansha and Hoopa when the new activity appears.

• Complete the base-game ending.
• Install Mega Dimension and update the game.
• Load the completed save.
• Check the roof of Hotel Z.
• Do not treat Main Missions 38–42 as DLC-start requirements.

2. Complete Side Mission 120 and unlock the workshop

Accept Side Mission 120, Donuts of Unworldly Deliciousness!, from Ansha and Hoopa at Hotel Z. The first objective is to obtain butter in Magenta Sector 6. Travel there, confront Tarragon and Grisham, and complete the required battle or encounter sequence to secure the ingredient.

Return to Hotel Z with the butter. Finish Ansha and Hoopa’s opening sequence to establish the donut workshop. From this point forward, Ansha’s donuts determine how long you can remain in Hyperspace and provide the level and flavor effects used during expeditions. The workshop is required for the story surveys and later special-donut encounters.

• Accept Side Mission 120.
• Travel to Magenta Sector 6.
• Complete the butter objective involving Tarragon and Grisham.
• Return to Hotel Z.
• Finish the opening workshop sequence.
• Confirm that Ansha can make ordinary donuts.

3. Learn the Hyperspace entry system

Use Ansha’s ordinary donuts to enter Hyperspace Lumiose through the distortions that appear around Lumiose City. Each portal has a star rating and a recommended level: one star is approximately level 105, two stars 120, three stars 140, four stars 170, and five stars 200. A donut below the portal’s rating reduces catch effectiveness; being one star below applies a smaller penalty, while being two or more stars below applies a much larger penalty.

Donut calories affect expedition duration, while other properties affect temporary party levels and flavor powers. Make a longer-duration donut before a survey with several objectives. Heal and change the party before leaving, because the donut and expedition entry are consumed even if you return without completing the mission.

• Check the portal’s star rating before entering.
• Use a matching-rated donut for difficult story entries.
• Choose enough duration for the active survey.
• Heal and prepare the party before consuming a donut.

4. Choose the correct distortion type

Wild Zones emphasize catching, collecting, and environmental objectives. Their tasks can include destroying floating Poké Balls, boulders, brambles, or sludge; collecting sparkling items; catching specified species or types; catching Alpha or Shiny Pokémon; and catching Pokémon without being detected. Battle Zones emphasize trainer fights, super-effective attacks, move-type requirements, and surprise knockouts.

Unknown Areas are separate locations commonly connected to side missions, special battles, or Mega Stone rewards. Follow the active mission rather than entering the nearest portal at random. Rogue Mega Arenas and Scanned Areas are later systems. Rogue Mega Arenas appear after the main DLC story and Darkrai, while Scanned Areas require their own later unlock and are not needed for the initial ending.

• Read the active survey tasks before entering.
• Use Wild Zones for catching and collection objectives.
• Use Battle Zones for trainer and move objectives.
• Enter Unknown Areas only when the mission identifies one.
• Leave Rogue Mega Arenas and Scanned Areas for later.

5. Complete Hyperspace Missions 1–10

Set the current Hyperspace mission as the map focus and complete every ordinary Lumiose interlude before spending another donut. The story alternates between survey entries and city scenes. The named sequence includes Hyperspace Lumiose Survey No. 1, Lebanne Arrives with a Bang!, Hyperspace Lumiose Survey No. 2, Le Musée et le Café, A Boom from the Strategy Room, Hyperspace Lumiose Survey No. 3, Naveen’s Not OK, Hyperspace Lumiose Survey No. 4, Hyperspace Lumiose Survey No. 5, and Mayhem at Midnight.

During each expedition, read all displayed tasks immediately and combine them into one route. Collect nearby items while moving toward the required Pokémon or trainer. Complete the three displayed tasks quickly when possible; doing so can create a bonus ball with better rewards, including Hyperspace Berries. Do not begin a distant battle when Hoopa’s remaining time is nearly exhausted.

After Mayhem at Midnight, begin Hyperspace Lumiose Survey No. 6 at the Rust Syndicate office. Follow the mission’s landmarks to find Corbeau, Philippe, and Vinnie, then return to the city and continue the final survey requirements.

• Complete Hyperspace Missions 1–10 in order.
• Finish every city interlude before entering an unrelated portal.
• Combine survey tasks on a single route.
• Collect Hyper Berries from bonus rewards when practical.
• Start Survey No. 6 after completing Mayhem at Midnight.

6. Finish Survey No. 6 and make the Bad Dreams Cruller

Complete the Survey No. 6 investigation and gather the required 50,000 Hyperspace Survey points. Corbeau then provides the special recipe and sends you back to Ansha. The Bad Dreams Cruller requires 310 Sweet, 100 Spicy, 310 Sour, 40 Bitter, and 40 Fresh flavor points. One reliable combination is three Hyper Tanga Berries, three Hyper Kasib Berries, one Hyper Coba Berry, and one berry supplying the required bitter points. Confirm all five flavor requirements in Ansha’s interface before baking.

The Bad Dreams Cruller is a one-time story donut. If you lack the necessary Hyper Berries, enter high-level Hyperspace Wild Zones and complete their tasks, especially the bonus-ball objective. Do not leave Hotel Z with an ordinary donut when the mission specifically requests the Bad Dreams Cruller.

• Reach the Survey No. 6 point requirement.
• Return to Hotel Z when instructed.
• Select the special Cruller recipe with Ansha.
• Meet 310 Sweet, 100 Spicy, 310 Sour, 40 Bitter, and 40 Fresh.
• Confirm that the Bad Dreams Cruller was created.

7. Enter Hyperspace Newmoon Nightmare and defeat Darkrai

With the Bad Dreams Cruller ready, go to Centrico Plaza and meet Corbeau, Philippe, and Vinnie. Give the Cruller to Hoopa. The group channels Mega Evolution energy and opens the distortion above Prism Tower. Enter the portal and follow the straightforward path through Hyperspace Newmoon Nightmare, continuing through the story scenes until Darkrai appears.

Darkrai is fought in two consecutive phases. First defeat regular Darkrai, then face Rogue Mega Darkrai after it Mega Evolves. Both encounters are level 200. Bring Pokémon with Fighting-, Bug-, or Fairy-type attacks, which exploit Darkrai’s weaknesses. Darkrai’s attacks create ground hazards and ranged danger zones, so keep moving, watch for the affected areas, and dodge rather than standing still to complete a long attack animation.

During the Mega phase, destroy Darkrai’s copies when they appear so they cannot overwhelm the arena with projectiles. When a large attack gathers energy across the arena, prioritize positioning and dodging over damage. If the donut timer is running low, collect the black energy orbs that pause or restore the expedition timer when available. Heal or swap before a fainted Pokémon leaves you without a super-effective option.

• Prepare a high-level party before giving Hoopa the Cruller.
• Carry Fighting-, Bug-, or Fairy-type attacks.
• Defeat regular Darkrai.
• Defeat Rogue Mega Darkrai.
• Catch Darkrai after the battle.
• Receive Darkranite.
• Return to Lumiose and watch the DLC credits.

8. Verify the initial DLC completion

After Mega Darkrai is defeated, catch Darkrai with a Poké Ball. The encounter is catchable after the battle, and Darkranite is awarded for the Darkrai sequence. Return to Lumiose and allow the celebration and credits to finish. The credits roll at the end of Hyperspace Mission 11, so the initial DLC story is not complete merely because Survey No. 6 reached its point target.

Check that Darkrai is in the party or Pastures, Darkranite is in the inventory, and the mission log has advanced beyond Hyperspace Lumiose Survey No. 6. The completion title or equivalent post-credits recognition should also be available after viewing the Mega Dimension credits.

• Catch Darkrai.
• Confirm Darkranite is received.
• Return to Hotel Z or Lumiose after the battle.
• Watch the Mega Dimension credits.
• Confirm Mission 11 is complete in the mission log.
• Treat Missions 12–14 as post-story content.

9. Continue with optional post-story Legendary content

After the Mission 11 credits, Hyperspace Missions 12–14 become available as optional post-story progression. The Greatest Gift concerns Ansha’s remaining Legendary search. You must complete the Groudon and Kyogre missions before the Rayquaza portion can be finished. The two Hoenn missions can be approached in either order: A Ruby-Red Legend leads to Groudon, and A Sapphire-Blue Legend leads to Kyogre.

Use the special Omega and Alpha donuts for Groudon and Kyogre, then defeat and catch each Pokémon through its regular and powered-up phases. After both are complete, prepare the Delta Old-Fashioned Donut for Rayquaza. Rayquaza is separate from the initial Darkrai ending and is not required for the Mission 11 completion check.

• Begin Mission 12 only after the Mission 11 credits.
• Complete A Ruby-Red Legend and A Sapphire-Blue Legend.
• Catch Groudon and Kyogre.
• Make the Delta Old-Fashioned Donut when instructed.
• Enter Rayquaza’s Hyperspace area if you want the optional post-story conclusion.

1. Create separate completion checklists

Open the Pokédex from the in-game menu and record missing entries under four headings: Lumiose species, Mega Evolution entries, Mable’s Research tasks, and Hyperspace or DLC content. Do not treat a Pokémon that you merely saw as caught. The game registers Pokédex data when you catch, evolve, or trade a Pokémon, so confirm that the entry is recorded before leaving an area.

For the base game, the required regional target is the Lumiose Pokédex rather than the later Hyperspace Pokédex. Keep Diancie and Mewtwo marked as optional exceptions instead of assuming that their absence means the base Pokédex is incomplete. If you are also pursuing Mega Evolution completion, maintain a second list pairing each Mega-capable species with its required Mega Stone.

• Mark each entry as caught, evolved, traded, or still missing.
• Separate the 230 required Lumiose entries from Diancie and Mewtwo.
• Track Mega Stones independently from ordinary evolution items.
• Keep Hyperspace and DLC species on a separate postgame list.

2. Clear Wild Zones during every required visit

Whenever a story mission or side mission sends you into a Wild Zone, catch unfamiliar species before returning to Lumiose City. After the mission objective is complete, open the Pokédex and compare the zone’s entries with your checklist. This is more efficient than completing the story first and then repeating every zone solely for collection work.

Search the full route rather than only the main path. Check elevated platforms, rooftops, underground sections, side alleys, and areas behind environmental obstacles when those routes are accessible. If a species is absent, do not assume it was permanently missed. Some entries depend on story progress, time, a mission state, an evolution method, or an event condition. Record the missing condition and revisit the zone after the relevant trigger becomes available.

• Catch new species before farming ordinary experience.
• Review the Pokédex before leaving each Wild Zone.
• Record whether a missing entry needs an evolution, item, time, mission, or event condition.
• Return after progression unlocks new routes or encounters.

3. Use Mable’s Research as a parallel progression track

After meeting Mable and obtaining the Pokédex, open Mable’s Research from the main menu. Completing its requests awards research points and raises your Research Level. The request categories include registering Pokémon, filling the Mega Evolution Pokédex, catching groups of Pokémon or types, evolving Pokémon, using evolution items, battling trainers, visiting city locations, and other collection-related activities.

Claim the reward whenever your Research Level increases. The rewards include TMs and other useful items, with a Master Ball at Level 49 and the Shiny Charm at Level 50. You do not need to complete every listed request if you earn enough points from other categories, but some tasks are much more valuable than others. Check the available requests regularly and choose ones that overlap with your current Pokédex or Mega Stone objectives.

If your goal is the Shiny Charm, plan for a long postgame cleanup. Without Mega Dimension’s additional research opportunities, the 1,000-trainer research task is effectively required to reach Level 50 if you do not replace those points with DLC tasks. The DLC can provide alternate research points, but it is not required for ordinary Lumiose Pokédex completion.

• Open Mable’s Research after major capture or evolution sessions.
• Claim all available level rewards from the menu.
• Prioritize requests that overlap with current collection work.
• Aim for Research Level 49 for the Master Ball and Level 50 for the Shiny Charm.

4. Register Mega Evolutions systematically

A Mega Evolution entry requires more than owning the ordinary species. Obtain the matching Mega Stone and register the Mega Evolution through the game’s Mega Evolution system. Mable’s official research description specifically links Mega Stones with registering Mega-Evolved Pokémon in the Mega Evolution Pokédex.

Make one Mega Stone sweep after the relevant shops, missions, and postgame rewards are available. Check the Stone Emporium for purchasable stones, check Quasartico Inc. exchanges that use Mega Shards, and break Mega Crystal clusters with your Pokémon to obtain those shards. Also inspect mission rewards and your inventory when a stone appears to be missing.

Pair every stone with the species that uses it. If a Mega entry is absent, check both your Bag and the held item on your Pokémon before searching the city again. Finish side missions that award specific stones before repeating Wild Zone routes.

• Match every accessible Mega-capable species to its stone.
• Check the Stone Emporium and Mega Shard exchange sources.
• Break Mega Crystal clusters while traveling through Lumiose City.
• Verify that the Mega form is registered rather than merely owning the base species.

5. Treat special encounters as condition-based opportunities

When the game signals a special event or distortion, restock healing items, leave room in your party or storage, and save before entering. Catch the rare or event-linked species first; gather optional items and fight nonessential opponents afterward. This protects the main collection goal if the area contains a limited opportunity or a difficult battle.

If an encounter is unavailable, check its Pokédex notes, mission requirements, and postgame conditions before assuming it has disappeared. Distortion and Hyperspace content is not part of the required base Lumiose checklist. Record each unavailable species with the trigger needed to make it appear rather than repeatedly revisiting the same location without a plan.

• Save and restock before entering a special event area.
• Secure rare encounters before optional battles or item gathering.
• Record the required mission or progression trigger for unavailable species.
• Keep Hyperspace entries separate from base-game completion.

6. Use Link Play for trade-only entries

Link Play becomes available in the X menu after you unlock the Rewards feature in Mable’s Research, generally after roughly one to one and a half hours of play. Select Link Play, then choose Link Trade. For a remote trade, select Faraway Players; for local wireless trading, select Nearby Players. Both players enter the same eight-digit code, choose a Pokémon, review the offered Pokémon, and confirm the trade.

Use this for species or evolutions that require another player. If an evolution requires a held item, attach the correct item before offering the Pokémon. Confirm the trade partner and the returned Pokémon before accepting, especially when trading a valuable team member. A planned trade-back is safer for a Pokémon you want to keep, while a spare specimen is useful if you are building both a collection and an active team.

• Unlock Rewards before looking for Link Play.
• Use the same eight-digit code with your trade partner.
• Attach any required evolution item before trading.
• Confirm the received Pokémon before finalizing the exchange.

7. Use Pokémon HOME only after checking transfer restrictions

Pokémon HOME connectivity with Pokémon Legends: Z-A is available as of April 3, 2026. You can move eligible Pokémon from Z-A into HOME and bring select compatible Pokémon from earlier games into Z-A. The available species are restricted to Pokémon that can appear in Z-A, so HOME cannot be used to import an arbitrary species into the game.

Treat HOME as a collection-management option, not automatic proof that an entry is complete. After a transfer, reopen the Z-A Pokédex and confirm the entry there. Pokémon moved from Z-A into HOME cannot return to earlier main-series games, and Pokémon moved into Z-A from earlier games cannot return to those earlier games. The first transfer from Z-A into the Nintendo Switch version of HOME also provides the currently announced alpha Chikorita, alpha Tepig, and alpha Totodile Mystery Gifts in the mobile version of HOME.

• Confirm the Pokémon is eligible for Z-A before transferring.
• Verify the entry in the Z-A Pokédex after the transfer.
• Understand the one-way compatibility restriction with earlier games.
• Claim the HOME Mystery Gifts after the first qualifying transfer if desired.

8. Finish the base game before beginning Mega Dimension collection

Before starting Mega Dimension, finish or document the remaining required Lumiose entries, claim available Mable’s Research rewards, and complete the accessible base-game Mega Stone sweep. This keeps the base-game checklist separate from the Hyperspace Pokédex and the DLC’s additional Mega Evolutions.

Mega Dimension is additional story content that takes place after the main story. If you own it and the story is available, the new side mission begins from the Hotel Z rooftop after the base campaign is complete. Do not count DLC species or DLC Mega Evolutions as missing base-game entries. Begin the DLC either after completing your base checklist or intentionally earlier when you want its additional research tasks and collection opportunities.

• Finish or document all required Lumiose Pokédex entries.
• Claim every available Mable’s Research reward.
• Record missing base-game Mega Stones and their unlock conditions.
• Keep Hyperspace species and DLC Mega Evolutions out of the base-game completion total.

Confirm that you are using the original Nintendo Switch edition

Pokémon Legends: Z-A released for Nintendo Switch on October 16, 2025. A separate Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is available for Nintendo Switch 2, and the original Nintendo Switch game can be upgraded on Nintendo Switch 2 by purchasing the appropriate Upgrade Pack. This appendix targets the ordinary Nintendo Switch edition, not the enhanced Nintendo Switch 2 presentation.

From the HOME Menu, highlight the game without launching it and press the + or – Button. Confirm that the software is listed as Pokémon Legends: Z-A and inspect the software information shown by the console. Do not use the presence of the Upgrade Pack in your Nintendo Account as proof that the running software has Switch 2 enhancements. Those improvements apply when the enhanced edition is being played on Nintendo Switch 2; they are not performance features that can be enabled on the original Switch console.

The original Switch edition remains the correct version for this walkthrough. Do not change routes, controls, mission expectations, or completion requirements because a guide or screenshot shows higher resolution, smoother frame rates, or another Switch 2-specific presentation change.

• The HOME Menu identifies Pokémon Legends: Z-A for Nintendo Switch.
• You are not expecting improved resolution or smoother frame rates on original Switch hardware.
• The Upgrade Pack is treated as a Nintendo Switch 2 enhancement, not as a requirement for the base campaign.

Update the software before using online features

Connect the Nintendo Switch to the internet. From the HOME Menu, highlight Pokémon Legends: Z-A, press + or –, choose Software Update, and then select Via the Internet. The same software-information screen shows the installed version beneath the title.

Nintendo Support lists Ver. 2.0.2, released March 18, 2026, as the current update listed for Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Install the available update rather than relying on an old cartridge or launch state. Nintendo states that an update is required to use the game’s internet features, and all players joining the same online activity must use the same software version.

If the update fails, confirm that the console is online, check available storage, restart the console, and run the manual update again. Updating the game is separate from deleting save data. Never delete the software or save file as the first response to an update error; the game and its save data are handled separately by the console.

• The software-information screen displays the installed version.
• The update completes before you test online functions.
• All players in an online activity are using the same version.

Know which features belong to which system

The original Nintendo Switch edition uses the standard Nintendo Switch presentation and performance. The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition adds improved performance, enhanced resolution, and smoother frame rates. These are presentation and hardware-related differences, not alternate campaign instructions.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack is usable on Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo Support specifically states that the enhanced features cannot be downloaded or used on an original Nintendo Switch, even if the Upgrade Pack was purchased. If you own the original game and later move to Nintendo Switch 2, confirm which edition is running before comparing performance or following system-specific troubleshooting.

Mega Dimension is different from the Upgrade Pack. The Mega Dimension DLC is compatible with both the ordinary Pokémon Legends: Z-A game and the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. A Nintendo Switch player should therefore purchase or verify the Mega Dimension DLC separately from any Switch 2 enhancement.

• Switch 2 visual and performance improvements are not treated as requirements on Nintendo Switch.
• The Upgrade Pack is distinguished from the Mega Dimension DLC.
• The base game and DLC are matched to the console and edition being used.

Verify Mega Dimension ownership and installation

Mega Dimension requires the full Pokémon Legends: Z-A game. The DLC can be purchased through Nintendo eShop on Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2, and it can be used when the DLC’s virtual game card is loaded on a console that also has the base game available as a physical or virtual game card.

Open Nintendo eShop with the Nintendo Account that purchased the DLC. Search for Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension DLC and confirm that the listing says Purchased rather than showing a price. If the purchase belongs to another account, the current profile may not be able to redownload or verify it.

Next, open Virtual Game Cards from the HOME Menu, select the purchasing user, and load the Mega Dimension DLC virtual game card on the console. If the base game is digital, load its virtual game card as well. If the DLC is still missing, restart the console, update the system software and game, then check the DLC listing again.

The DLC has two practical gates. The Holo-X and Holo-Y apparel items become claimable after the relevant Outfit & Looks feature is available. The additional story content, including its Mega Stone content, requires completion of the main Pokémon Legends: Z-A story. DLC ownership alone does not bypass that story requirement.

• The purchasing Nintendo Account shows the DLC as Purchased.
• The Mega Dimension virtual game card is loaded or the DLC is otherwise redownloaded through the official account.
• The base game is present on the same console.
• The main story is complete before attempting to progress the DLC story.

Use online, local, and transfer features safely

Pokémon Legends: Z-A supports local wireless and online play for two to four players. Online play requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership, internet access, and a Nintendo Account. Before joining a battle or communication activity, update the game and confirm that every participant is using the same software version.

If an online room or match fails, check the Nintendo Switch Online membership, the internet connection, the console’s connection test, and whether the participants are using different updates. Restarting the game after an update can also clear a stale connection state. Do not treat a failed matchmaking attempt as evidence that the save file is damaged.

Pokémon HOME is compatible with Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Use Pokémon HOME only through its official supported connection. Pokémon can be transferred from Pokémon Legends: Z-A to Pokémon HOME, and select Pokémon from compatible earlier titles can be brought into Lumiose City. Transfer availability is limited by the Pokémon that can appear in the receiving game. Do not use save editors, injected Pokémon, altered backups, or third-party transfer utilities. These tools can damage progress or create account and legality problems.

• Online participants have Nintendo Switch Online access where required.
• The consoles and game software are updated to matching versions.
• Pokémon HOME transfers use the official service and only supported Pokémon.

Recover from missing DLC, downloads, or purchases

For missing DLC, first restart the console and update both the system and the game. Then open Nintendo eShop with the account that made the purchase, search for the DLC, and confirm that it says Purchased. From Virtual Game Cards, load the DLC on the current console. If the DLC is listed as Hidden Software, use Nintendo’s redownload procedure to make it available again.

For a missing digital purchase, check the purchasing account’s eShop history and Virtual Game Cards list. A different user profile may have purchased the content. A physical base game may still be required even when the DLC is digital, so insert the physical game card or load the base game’s virtual game card before testing the DLC.

For a crash, stalled download, missing menu, or repeated mission-related error, record the exact software version, location, mission, action that preceded the problem, and whether the issue repeats. Restart and update before contacting Nintendo Support, then provide those details through the official support channel. Do not attempt an unofficial repair.

• You checked the purchasing account before assuming the DLC was lost.
• You loaded the relevant virtual game card or inserted the physical base game card.
• You recorded reproducible error details before contacting Nintendo Support.

Protect local save data and transfer it officially

Pokémon Legends: Z-A does not support Nintendo Switch Save Data Cloud Backup. Do not expect a Nintendo Switch Online membership to create, restore, or synchronize a cloud copy of this game’s save. The same lack of cloud backup applies to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.

Use the game’s normal in-game saving features and allow the game to complete its save before closing the software or powering down the console. Do not delete the game’s save data while troubleshooting an update, DLC, or online problem. Deleting the software is not the same as deleting save data, but either action should be deliberate and performed only after confirming what the console will retain.

To move the save to another nearby Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2, update both systems, connect them to the internet, and link the same Nintendo Account to the relevant user on both consoles. On the source console, open System Settings, Data Management, Transfer Your Save Data, and choose Send Save Data to Another Console. Select the user and Pokémon Legends: Z-A save, then confirm. On the target console, open the same menu and choose Receive Save Data. This process moves the save; it does not create a second backup, and the source save is deleted after a successful transfer.

If you are replacing the entire console, use Nintendo’s official Transfer Your User and Save Data process instead. Confirm the source and target systems carefully before starting, because transferred user information and associated saves are removed from the source system. Keep both consoles powered and follow Nintendo’s on-screen instructions. Do not rely on unofficial save extraction, altered backups, or third-party migration tools.

• You understand that Save Data Cloud Backup is unavailable for Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
• You save normally in the game before closing it.
• You use nearby save-data transfer or official user-and-save-data transfer when changing consoles.
• You understand that an official transfer moves the save instead of creating an independent copy.
• You do not delete save data or use unofficial save-editing and transfer tools.