Here are the top 5 recommended Pokémon to raise in the early stages of Pokémon Legends: Z-A (Wild Zones 1-5, around Level 20)! These Pokémon are powerful and accessible early on, ensuring a smooth progression through the main story and the first major boss fights (such as the rampaging Mega Slowbro).
| Pokémon (→ Evolutions) | Appearance Location | Main Reasons for Recommendation |
| Riolu (→ Lucario, Mega) | Wild Zone 1-2 (Hidden Spots/Side Quests) | Early-Game MVP! Fighting/Steel typing gives it few weaknesses. Explosive physical damage, becomes S-Tier with Mega Evolution. Ready for immediate combat. |
| Heracross | Trading or Wild Zone 3 (Alpha) | High-stat Bug/Fighting attacker. Essential for breaking rocks, and its Mega form has unmatched firepower. Makes the story much easier. |
| Mareep (→ Ampharos, Mega) | Side Mission 17 (Guaranteed Shiny) | Excellent Electric-type coverage, adds bulk, and has strong Mega Special Attack. Stable against Water/Flying enemies. |
| Fletchling (→ Talonflame, Mega) | Wild Zone 1 (Near Entrance/Rooftops) | Fire/Flying provides an advantage against Grass/Bug/Steel. Fast Evolution (Lv 17: Fletchinder → Lv 35: Talonflame) makes it a high-speed attacker. Highly effective against early bosses. |
| Magikarp (→ Gyarados, Mega) | Wild Zone 2 (Water Areas) | Can be evolved into Gyarados immediately using Exp. Candy. Water/Flying type gives it an advantage against Grass/Ground. High-damage, durable attacker. |
Summary of Key Features
- Fletchling (Talonflame) is particularly effective against early bosses like the rampaging Mega Slowbro due to its Fire/Flying typing. Its quick evolution and the power of Mega Talonflame make it an excellent choice.
- Riolu is considered the strongest early-game catch due to its versatility and the sheer power of its final evolution, Mega Lucario.
- Heracross is a massive help not just for battle but for field utility (breaking rocks) and offers incredible Fighting/Bug damage.
- Mareep provides the essential Electric coverage needed to handle common early Water/Flying types.
- Magikarp offers an instant high-level powerhouse if you have the resources to evolve it into Gyarados right away, giving you a strong Water-type with high attack and durability.
