Alpha Pokémon represent a distinct larger variant of standard Pokémon that players will encounter while playing Pokémon Legends: Z-A. This mechanic returns from Legends: Arceus, albeit with several notable adjustments.

This guide will elucidate what differentiates Alpha Pokémon from regular ones and where they can be found across Lumiose City. Here’s an overview.

What are Alpha Pokémon in Pokémon Legends: Z-A?

How Do Alpha Pokémon Operate?

Alpha Pokémon possess specific traits:

• They feature red glowing eyes that can be spotted from a considerable distance.
• Their levels are typically 10-20 levels higher than surrounding Pokémon.
• They exhibit significantly increased HP in wild encounters compared to other Pokémon of their level.
• They are extremely aggressive and will attack trainers whenever possible.
• They are equipped with at least one move that is usually exclusive to their species via TM.
• They have three random perfect IVs (31) and maximum HP EVs (252).
• They can be captured using a Poké Ball just like regular Pokémon.
• In their status window, they display a red skull icon.

Once captured, Alpha Pokémon no longer retain their red glowing eyes, and their HP normalizes.

Where Can Alpha Pokémon be Found in Pokémon Legends: Z-A?

Locations of Alpha Pokémon

Alpha Pokémon begin to appear in the Wild Zones and various overworld locales within Lumiose City after players finish the side quest titled «A Big Ol’ Bunnelby,» which involves battling and defeating an Alpha Bunnelby. This quest is mandatory for story advancement, making it unavoidable.

Upon defeating the Alpha Bunnelby, players should head to any Wild Zone, where they will notice that some of the area’s native Pokémon have evolved into Alpha variants. Each Wild Zone contains at least one or two predetermined Alpha spawns, such as the Staryu found in Wild Zone 2, while other Pokémon in the area have a slight chance of becoming an Alpha. Additionally, there are confirmed Alpha Pokémon situated in fixed positions outside the Wild Zones as well.