How to Catch Zygarde in Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Complete Guide for Nintendo Switch Players

Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the much-anticipated addition to the Nintendo Switch library, has quickly become a topic of discussion within the gaming community since its release.

Developed by Game Freak and published by The Pokémon Company, this latest installment brings players back to the dynamic Kalos region, promising new adventures and challenges for seasoned trainers and newcomers alike.

As players explore the vast open world and tackle new narratives, many are setting their sights on capturing Zygarde—the game's prominent Legendary Pokémon. For trainers aiming to complete their Pokédex, catching Zygarde in Pokémon Legends: Z-A stands as a monumental achievement.

The process, however, requires strategic planning and prior accomplishments within the main storyline.

First and foremost, players must complete the primary story arc and ensure they have already captured both Xerneas and Yveltal, Zygarde's fellow Legendary Pokémon from the Kalos region.

Only after meeting these requirements will Zygarde’s quest become accessible. With the story clear and the other legends secured, your journey continues at Hotel Z.

Upon returning, a character known as L will await players and request a battle as a final test of their abilities.

Successfully overcoming this challenge unlocks the next step: a pivotal confrontation atop Prism Tower.

Here, trainers are met with a three-phase battle against Zygarde, showcasing its formidable 10% Forme, 50% Forme, and finally, its Complete Forme at level 84. These initial stages require careful strategy.

According to verified gameplay resources, leveraging Ice-type Pokémon can provide a significant advantage during the first two phases.

Expert trainers recommend using Mega Evolved Ice-types such as Mega Glalie or Mega Abomasnow, especially when at a high level, to maximize effectiveness against the Legendary Dragon- and Ground-type.

Moves with the Ice typing inflict extra damage—a crucial edge for victory. The final battle phase unfolds as Zygarde transforms into its Complete Forme, the most challenging segment of the encounter.

During this phase, keep a close eye on Zygarde’s attack patterns, in particular when it takes flight and charges before unleashing its devastating Core Enforcer move.

The battlefield becomes painted in high-damage laser zones, leaving only the far left or right sides as safe havens.

Pattern recognition and careful Pokémon management are key—recalling your Pokémon to their ball at the right moment can prevent unnecessary knockouts. Persistence pays off, as defeating Zygarde’s Complete Forme leads to an assured capture.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A guarantees success in capturing Zygarde, allowing trainers to use any Poké Ball without the risk of failure.

For thematic consistency, a Dusk Ball is suggested to match Zygarde’s palette, but the choice is ultimately yours. Launched exclusively for Nintendo Switch, Pokémon Legends: Z-A continues the franchise legacy of challenging quests and memorable Legendary encounters.

For more in-depth Pokémon Legends: Z-A guides, strategies, and the latest updates on Nintendo Switch titles, stay connected with our dedicated Nintendo news coverage.

Pokémon Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Pokémon Legends: Z-A Zygarde Z Pokémon Legends Legends: Z-A Pokémon Legends Z-A Game Freak Xerneas Yveltal Prism Tower Hotel Z The Pokémon Company