If you’re diving deep into Pokémon Legends: Z-A and want to train your Pokémon to their best potential, understanding how to train their EVs (Effort Values) and IVs (Individual Values) is crucial. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to enhance your Pokémon’s stats and give you the edge in battles.
What Are EVs and IVs?
Before we dive into training tips, let’s quickly review what EVs and IVs are, as they play a huge role in your Pokémon’s growth.
- EVs (Effort Values): These are hidden stats that affect your Pokémon’s base stats (like Attack, Defense, Speed, etc.). EVs are earned by defeating other Pokémon, using certain items, or through specific training methods. Each Pokémon has a limit to how many EVs they can gain.
- IVs (Individual Values): IVs are inherent stats that determine how strong a Pokémon can potentially become. Unlike EVs, IVs are fixed at birth and can’t be changed, but they play a big role in determining how good your Pokémon can be in the long run.
How to Train EVs in Pokémon Legends: Z-A
EV training can be a bit tricky, but with the right approach, you can power up your Pokémon to maximum potential.
1. Focus on Specific Stats
Start by deciding which stats you want to boost. For example, if you’re training a speedy Pokémon, focus on gaining Speed EVs. If you want to build a strong attacker, focus on Attack or Special Attack EVs. Each stat has its corresponding Pokémon species or items that can help you gain specific EVs.
2. Defeat Specific Pokémon
One of the easiest ways to gain EVs is by battling specific wild Pokémon. Certain Pokémon yield EVs in certain stats when defeated. For example:
- Defeating Zubat may give you Speed EVs.
- Taking down Geodude gives you Defense EVs.
- Be sure to track how many EVs your Pokémon has gained because they have a limit of 510 total EVs, and only 252 EVs can be assigned to one stat.
3. Use Items to Maximize Your EV Gain
Items like Macho Brace or Power Items can help speed up EV training by increasing the EVs gained per battle. You can also use Pokérus, a virus that increases EV gain, to make your Pokémon even stronger. It’s also worth mentioning that you can use Vitamins like Carbos, Protein, or Calcium to instantly boost EVs in specific stats.
How to Train IVs in Pokémon Legends: Z-A
IVs are trickier because you can’t change them directly. However, you can work with the IVs you get and even improve them through breeding.
1. Breeding for Better IVs
The most common way to get better IVs is through breeding. When two Pokémon with high IVs breed, their offspring can inherit some of those IVs. The Destiny Knot is an item that can help you pass on five IVs from the parents to the offspring, making it easier to breed high-IV Pokémon.
2. Use Bottle Caps to Maximize IVs
Once you’ve got your perfect Pokémon, you can use Bottle Caps to increase the IVs of a Pokémon’s stats. A Golden Bottle Cap can maximize a stat, while a regular Bottle Cap can improve it. You’ll need to take your Pokémon to the Hyper Trainer in the game to use these items.
3. Keep Track of Your IVs
While IVs are fixed, knowing your Pokémon’s IVs helps you understand how close it is to reaching its potential. You can check IVs in the game by speaking to an NPC who will tell you if your Pokémon’s stats are “best,” “superb,” or “good.” The closer the IVs are to perfect, the stronger your Pokémon will be in the long run.
Balancing EV and IV Training for Maximum Power
Now that you know how to handle EV and IV training separately, it’s time to combine both methods for maximum effect.
- EVs First: Start by training your Pokémon’s EVs. Once the EVs are maxed out (with 252 in any given stat), you’ll have the full benefit of those boosts.
- IVs Later: After your Pokémon is fully trained in EVs, you can focus on improving their IVs, either through breeding or using Bottle Caps.
A Quick Tip: The Power of Shiny Pokémon
As you’re grinding away at EV and IV training, keep in mind that shiny Pokémon are a huge bonus. If you’re lucky enough to buy shiny Pokémon or encounter them during your adventures, they often come with better stats or offer some extra bragging rights. Many players love the challenge of hunting down shiny Pokémon while perfecting their EV and IV training.
Additionally, if you’re looking for an even faster way to get some quality Pokémon for your team, you can buy Pokémon for Legends ZA from trusted sites like U4GM. While this doesn’t replace the thrill of training your Pokémon, it can save you time if you’re trying to put together a strong team for competitive battles.
Training EVs and IVs in Pokémon Legends: Z-A can be a rewarding experience that gives your Pokémon a real edge in battle. By focusing on specific stats and utilizing the right items and strategies, you can build a team that’s ready to take on any challenge. Whether you’re a casual player or aiming for top-tier competitive play, understanding how to train EVs and IVs will take your Pokémon journey to the next level.