Pokémon Legends: Z-A has already impressed fans with its new mechanics, sprawling Lumiose City hub, and the return of classic exploration elements. But one of the most exciting discoveries players are making involves hidden characters — special NPCs and rare trainers that unlock exclusive battles, unique items, and even rare Pokémon encounters. If you’ve been wondering how to find them, here’s a breakdown of what we know so far and how to unlock them efficiently.
1. Complete Key Side Quests
Many hidden characters in Pokémon Legends: Z-A are tied to optional side quests that don’t appear until certain story milestones. For example, after you complete the second major gym challenge in the Lumiose Region storyline, a new series of side quests becomes available near the Battle Institute. Completing these quests can lead to encounters with returning characters from previous generations, including veteran trainers and regional champions.
Keep an eye on NPCs with unique dialogue or who mention mysterious challenges. These often trigger multi-part questlines that eventually reveal a hidden battle or an unlockable trainer partner.
2. Explore the Underground Network
One of the standout features of Pokémon Legends: Z-A is the reimagined Underground — a massive labyrinth beneath Lumiose City. This area contains secret chambers and passageways where several hidden characters reside. To access the deeper sections, you’ll need specific tools obtained through exploration missions or item crafting.
Players who take the time to thoroughly explore the Underground often discover trainers guarding rare Pokémon or offering trade opportunities. Some even let you battle using powerful teams that include rare species such as alpha Pokémon. If you’re building a strong collection, this is also a great time to consider options like buy alpha shiny Pokémon from in-game exchanges or event rewards to round out your roster.
3. Increase Friendship and Reputation
Certain hidden characters only appear once you’ve built enough reputation within specific groups or factions. Completing daily requests, participating in tournaments, and maintaining high friendship levels with your Pokémon can unlock new interactions. For instance, one elusive mentor character is said to appear only after you’ve maxed friendship with at least five Pokémon.
If you’re serious about strengthening your team and progressing faster, look into reliable methods to buy alpha Pokémon Legends ZA-exclusive species through legitimate in-game trade systems or special event challenges. These Pokémon often provide a boost in battle performance and help you meet criteria for unlocking advanced quests.
4. Search During Specific Times or Weather
Pokémon Legends: Z-A brings back time and weather-dependent encounters. Some hidden characters are only available at certain times of day or during specific weather patterns in Lumiose City. For example, one character might appear on the rooftops during a thunderstorm, while another only shows up at night in the alleyways of North Boulevard.
If you’re hunting for these encounters, make use of the in-game clock and weather system to plan your exploration. Checking back during different times can make all the difference.
5. Participate in Online Events
Finally, Game Freak and Nintendo occasionally release limited-time online events for Pokémon Legends: Z-A, where hidden characters or special challenge trainers appear temporarily. Participating in these can earn you exclusive rewards, including unique cosmetics or rare Pokémon unavailable through normal gameplay.
Be sure to check the in-game news board or official announcements regularly, as missing one of these events could mean losing access to a hidden character for months.
Unlocking hidden characters in Pokémon Legends: Z-A adds a layer of mystery and replay value that keeps the game engaging long after the main story ends. Whether you’re exploring the Underground, completing side quests, or training rare species like alpha Pokémon, the process is both challenging and rewarding.
If you take the time to explore every corner of Lumiose City and interact with its diverse cast of characters, you’ll eventually uncover all the secrets this game has to offer — and maybe even a few legendary surprises along the way.
