Shiny hunting has always been one of the most rewarding parts of the Pokémon experience, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A continues that tradition with new mechanics and subtle improvements to the shiny encounter system. Among the most sought-after shiny Pokémon in the game are Pichu and Pikachu—both iconic, both adorable, and both surprisingly tricky to find. If you’re aiming to complete your shiny collection, here’s a detailed guide on how to catch shiny Pichu and Pikachu efficiently.
Understanding Shiny Odds in Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Before you start your hunt, it’s important to understand how shiny odds work in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. The base shiny rate remains roughly 1 in 4096, but this can be improved through various methods, such as completing Pokédex research tasks for the species, obtaining the Shiny Charm, and participating in Mass Outbreaks. Combining these methods can dramatically improve your chances, often reducing the odds to as low as 1 in 256.
Where to Find Pichu and Pikachu
Pichu Locations:
Pichu tends to appear in forested areas near early-game routes and around electric energy sources in Lumiose Outskirts. They’re rare spawns and easily startled, so using stealth tactics is key. Move slowly through tall grass, and use items like Smoke Bombs or Stealth Spray to get close before throwing a Poké Ball.
Pikachu Locations:
Pikachu can often be found in similar biomes, usually near open grassy clearings and sometimes near lightning towers or electric terrain zones. Unlike Pichu, Pikachu can be a bit more aggressive, so keep your distance and use backstrikes to improve your catch rate.
The Best Methods for Shiny Hunting
1. Mass Outbreaks:
Mass Outbreaks remain one of the best shiny farming opportunities in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. When a Pichu or Pikachu outbreak appears on your map, save your game before approaching the area. If you don’t find a shiny during the encounter, you can reset and try again. This method is efficient and doesn’t rely on RNG as heavily as standard spawns.
2. Pokédex Research Bonuses:
Completing Pokédex tasks for Pichu and Pikachu not only increases shiny odds but also helps unlock more spawn locations. Focus on tasks like “Catch without being spotted” or “Defeat with Ground-type moves” to progress faster.
3. Time and Weather Manipulation:
Certain Pokémon spawns in Legends: Z-A are influenced by weather and time of day. Pichu tends to appear more frequently during clear daylight, while Pikachu may spawn under cloudy or stormy conditions. Adjusting your in-game time can save hours of searching.
Efficient Shiny Catching Tips
Save frequently: Always save before entering a shiny spawn area.
Use Jet Balls or Feather Balls: These are ideal for stealth captures at range.
Stay patient: Even with boosted odds, shiny hunting takes persistence.
If you’re short on time or prefer to build a shiny collection quickly, some players choose to buy shiny Pokémon Legends ZA or buy shiny Pokémon ZA through trusted community trades or marketplaces. While hunting them yourself offers the most satisfaction, both methods have their appeal depending on your playstyle.
Catching shiny Pichu and Pikachu in Pokémon Legends: Z-A is both a challenge and a joy. Whether you prefer stealthy forest exploration or resetting outbreaks for the perfect sparkle, the thrill of seeing that golden hue never fades. With the right preparation and a little patience, your shiny Electric duo will be lighting up your team in no time.
So grab your Poké Balls, plan your route, and start your shiny hunt today—because few moments in the game feel as electrifying as spotting that rare, sparkling Pikachu.
