Evolutionary items have always been a crucial part of the Pokémon series, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A continues this tradition by making evolution a more immersive and strategic process. Whether you’re trying to evolve your Eevee into a Sylveon or your Magneton into a Magnezone, collecting the right items can make all the difference in your journey. In this guide, we’ll go over all the main ways to obtain evolutionary items in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, along with some useful tips to help you get them efficiently.
1. Explore Hidden Areas and Rare Drops
Many evolutionary items in Pokémon Legends: Z-A are scattered across the open-world regions as hidden treasures. Check caves, lakeshores, and ruins—especially areas where high-level Pokémon spawn. You’ll often find valuable items like Fire Stones, Dawn Stones, and Metal Coats tucked away in less-traveled spots.
Additionally, certain wild Pokémon may drop these items when defeated or captured. For example, Magnemite and Magneton occasionally drop Metal Coats, while Eevee-related stones might appear near lush forest zones. It’s worth revisiting these areas periodically, as items tend to respawn after a set amount of in-game time.
2. Complete Side Quests and Research Missions
Another reliable method to get evolutionary items is through side quests and research assignments. Many NPCs will reward you with rare items for completing specific tasks, such as capturing a unique Pokémon form or researching a habitat. Some endgame quests even guarantee high-tier evolution stones that are otherwise very rare in the wild.
These missions not only grant rewards but also provide opportunities to deepen your understanding of each Pokémon’s lore, which fits perfectly with the story-driven exploration style of Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
3. Trade or Purchase from Vendors
Throughout Lumiose City and other regions, you’ll encounter vendors who sell rare evolutionary items for Poké Dollars or merit points. Their stock changes regularly, so it’s a good idea to check back frequently. Some vendors even specialize in elemental stones or trade-only evolution items like King’s Rocks and Dragon Scales.
Players who prefer a faster route can also buy Pokémon ZA items from in-game merchants using accumulated currency. While it’s possible to find most items naturally, purchasing them can save valuable time, especially when focusing on competitive team building or filling the Pokédex efficiently.
4. Time-Based and Weather-Based Events
Certain evolution items only appear under specific conditions, such as during thunderstorms, snowstorms, or nighttime events. For example, Thunder Stones are more likely to appear after lightning events, while Ice Stones can be found during blizzards. Make sure to monitor the in-game weather cycle, as timing your exploration can lead to more frequent rare item spawns.
These dynamic environmental mechanics encourage players to engage with the world rather than just farming the same location repeatedly.
5. Trade Pokémon That Require Held Items
Some Pokémon in Pokémon Legends: Z-A still evolve through trade when holding a specific item. For instance, trading a Seadra holding a Dragon Scale will evolve it into Kingdra. Online trading is a convenient way to achieve these evolutions while also expanding your collection.
If you’re looking to complete your Pokédex faster or obtain species exclusive to other regions, you can also buy Pokémon Legends Z-A Pokémon through legitimate in-game exchange systems or trade networks. Always ensure that trades follow the game’s terms to maintain a fair and balanced experience.
Keep an eye on special events—developers often add limited-time evolution items as rewards for community challenges.
Use the item radar or treasure scanner if available to make searching more efficient.
Store your items safely; some evolution stones are unique and cannot be replaced easily.
Mastering evolution in Pokémon Legends: Z-A adds a rewarding layer of strategy and collection to your adventure. Whether you choose to explore, complete missions, or buy Pokémon ZA items from trusted vendors, obtaining these evolution materials will bring you one step closer to building the ultimate Pokémon team.
