Hidden Abilities have always been one of the most intriguing mechanics in the Pokémon series, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A continues that tradition with a few unique twists. Whether you’re a competitive battler or a collector aiming to complete your dream team, understanding how Hidden Abilities work in this game can make a huge difference in your overall experience.
What Are Hidden Abilities?
A Hidden Ability is a special third Ability that some Pokémon can have, often more powerful or strategically interesting than their standard ones. Unlike regular Abilities, Hidden Abilities can’t usually be found on wild Pokémon. Instead, they’re obtained through specific methods like breeding, special encounters, or rewards from limited-time events.
For example, a Gyarados with its standard Ability, Intimidate, is already formidable—but a Hidden Ability Gyarados with Moxie becomes a true powerhouse after each knockout. The same goes for Pokémon like Greninja (Protean) or Talonflame (Gale Wings), which completely change the way they perform in battle.
How to Get Hidden Ability Pokémon in Pokémon Legends: Z-A
In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, there are several ways to obtain Pokémon with Hidden Abilities, though they might require patience and exploration.
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Special Wild Encounters – Some rare Pokémon found in the wild have a small chance of spawning with their Hidden Ability. These are often found in high-level areas or during specific weather conditions.
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Breeding – If one parent Pokémon has a Hidden Ability, there’s a chance the offspring will inherit it. Breeding remains one of the most reliable ways to obtain Hidden Ability Pokémon with ideal stats.
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Ability Capsules and Patches – Certain items allow you to modify a Pokémon’s Ability. An Ability Patch, in particular, can switch a Pokémon’s standard Ability to its Hidden Ability. These patches are rare, often tied to challenging quests or late-game rewards.
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Raid Battles or Special Events – Similar to previous titles, Pokémon Legends: Z-A may include raid battles or time-limited events that feature Hidden Ability Pokémon as rewards. Keeping an eye on event updates is key.
Why Hidden Abilities Matter
Hidden Abilities can completely redefine how a Pokémon performs in both single-player challenges and online battles. Some Abilities improve offensive potential, while others grant defensive advantages or enable unique team strategies. Even if you’re not focused on competitive play, collecting Hidden Ability Pokémon adds depth to your Pokédex and can make your adventure much more exciting.
Shiny Pokémon and Hidden Abilities
If you’re hunting for both Shiny and Hidden Ability Pokémon, the grind can be intense—but rewarding. Many dedicated players like to combine their hunts, searching for rare variants while optimizing Abilities. It’s a time-consuming process, which is why some fans look for alternative options such as ways to buy Shiny Pokémon Legends ZA or find cheap shiny Pokémon ZA through in-game trading communities. While this doesn’t replace the thrill of catching your own, it’s a common route for those who want to fill out their collection efficiently.
Hidden Abilities are one of the most satisfying layers of strategy in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. They add depth to battles, encourage exploration, and reward players who pay attention to detail. Whether you’re chasing a competitive edge or simply want the rarest versions of your favorite Pokémon, mastering the Hidden Ability system will help you make the most out of your journey through Lumiose City and beyond.
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