How to Get the Kanto Starters in Pokemon Legends Z-A

By Ambar Jimenez | 2025-10-19 08:47:31
Pokémon Legends: Z-A has delivered some of the most dramatic overhauls the franchise has ever seen, from its unique battle system to its singular setting in Lumiose City. Amidst all the changes, one tradition remains sacred: the classic Kanto starter Pokémon—Charmander, Squirtle, and Bulbasaur—are back.While it is possible to catch all three, along with a host of other fascinating Pokémon, in a specific area known as Wild Zone 20, this location remains locked until after you have completed the main story and the credits roll. Fortunately, you don't have to wait that long. There is a way to claim one of the iconic trio much earlier in your adventure.Here is the complete guide on how to trigger the mission from Mable and get your hands on one of the beloved Kanto starters.

Pokemon Legends Z-A: Get the Kanto Starters

The Early Starter Pick: A Call from Mable

Claiming an early Kanto starter depends on triggering a specific side mission from your research ally, Mable.

Triggering Side Mission 022

The exact condition that triggers the "Call from Mable" and initiates Side Mission 022 can be a bit elusive, as players have reported varying requirements.However, the most consistent reports point to these prerequisites:

  • Side Mission Completion: Ensure you have completed at least nine Side Missions.
  • Main Quest Progress: You should be progressing through the mid-to-late game, typically around your eighth main quest (which often involves reaching Rank V).
  • Healing Trigger: Many players reported receiving the call immediately after healing their Pokémon at a Pokémon Center once the above conditions were met.
  • Research Rank: While some early reports suggested a need for a specific Research Rank(like Rank F), focusing on your main and side mission progress appearsto be the most reliable method. Keep up your research efforts with Mable to ensure your account meets all unstated requirements.

Claiming Your Starter

Once the call is triggered and Side Mission 022 begins, follow these steps:

  • Fast Travel: Use your map to Fast Travel to the Pokémon Research Lab, conveniently located in the southern part of the city, right next to Wild Zone 1.
  • Visit Mable: Take the elevator inside the Research Lab to the top floor.
  • Make Your Choice: Speak with Mable. As a reward for your hard work in research, she will present you with the choice of one of the three Kanto starter Pokémon: Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle.

Choose wisely, as this will be your primary partner for the rest of the game!

Rewards and Progression Boosts

For taking the time to visit Mable and claim your new partner, you will berewarded with a few helpful items to accelerate your journey:

  • 1,000 Pokédollars
  • Three Extra Small Exp. Candies
  • Two Small Exp. Candies

These resources will help you immediately level up your new starter and integrate them into your main party.

Mastering the Mega Evolution

The excitement doesn't end with getting a starter; Pokémon Legends: Z-A brings back Mega Evolution, allowing your Kanto partner to reach its full potential. To Mega Evolve your final forms (Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur), you will needthe corresponding Mega Stone.

Purchasing Mega Stones

The primary vendor for evolution items is the Stone Emporium, located on Vernal Avenue (northwest of Wild Zone 1).

  • As you progress through the main story, the Emporium's stock will update to include Mega Stones.
  • The Mega Stones for Charizard and Blastoise will eventually become available for purchase, though they will cost a substantial amount of Pokédollars.

Unlocking Venusaurite

The Mega Stone for Venusaur is not purchased; it is earned through an achievement:

  • Venusaurite is rewarded after completing a special battle later in the main story. Keep focusing on your primary objectives, andyou will eventually unlock the ability to unleash Mega Venusaur.

By following this path, you can ensure that one of the most iconic Pokémon partners is by your side long before the credits roll, ready to MegaEvolve and dominate the challenges of Lumiose City. Which Kanto classicwill you choose?

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