How to Get Mega Steelix in Pokémon Legends Z-A

Step 1: Catch an Onix

Before you can command the power of Mega Steelix, you first need to obtain its pre-evolution, Onix. This Rock/Ground-type Pokémon has been a fan favorite since the first generation and is the foundation for your future defensive powerhouse.

Onix Location in Lumiose City

Onix can be found in several of the Wild Zones scattered throughout Lumiose City. These zones are distinct biomes that house different types of Pokémon. To find Onix, you will want to focus your search on areas with rocky or subterranean environments. Check your Pokédex for specific habitat information as you explore new zones. Caves, quarries, and mountainous areas are your most likely locations for an encounter.

Once you find an Onix, simply engage it in battle and catch it. Onix is not typically a difficult Pokémon to capture, but using higher-quality Poké Balls or inflicting a status condition like sleep or paralysis can increase your chances.

Step 2: Evolve Onix into Steelix

With an Onix on your team, the next step is to evolve it into Steelix. Unlike most Pokémon that evolve by leveling up, Onix has a special evolution method that requires a specific item and a trade.

The Metal Coat Evolution Item

To trigger the evolution, you need an item called the Metal Coat. This special item, when held by an Onix during a trade, causes it to evolve into the Steel-type Steelix. There are a few ways to acquire a Metal Coat in Pokémon Legends Z-A:

• Purchase from Shops: Certain item shops within Lumiose City may carry the Metal Coat for sale. Keep an eye on their inventory as you progress through the game.
• Item Drops: In some cases, Pokémon that are Steel-type may have a small chance to be holding a Metal Coat when caught in the wild.
• Mission Rewards: Completing specific side missions or main story objectives may also reward you with a Metal Coat.

Trading to Evolve

Once you have a Metal Coat, give it to your Onix to hold. The final step is to trade the Onix with another player. As soon as the trade is completed, the Onix will evolve into Steelix on the other player’s device. You will then need to trade back to get your newly evolved Steelix.

You can initiate a trade through the game’s Link Play features, either locally with a friend or online with players from around the world. The trading board in Pokémon Centers is a great place to find trading partners.

Step 3: Find and Obtain the Steelixite Mega Stone

Now that you have a Steelix, you are one step away from unlocking its Mega Evolution. The final piece of the puzzle is the Steelixite, the specific Mega Stone that allows Steelix to transform.

Where to Buy Steelixite

The most reliable way to get the Steelixite is to purchase it. Head to the Stone Emporium in Lumiose City. This specialty shop deals in various evolutionary stones and Mega Stones. You can buy the Steelixite here for ₽70,000.

This is a considerable sum of money, especially early in the game, so you will want to save up. You can earn money quickly by battling other trainers, selling valuable items like treasures, and completing missions. Prioritize farming money if Mega Steelix is a key part of your desired team.

Step 4: Using Mega Steelix in Battle

With your Steelix holding the Steelixite, you are finally ready to unleash its full power.

How to Mega Evolve

During any battle, you will see a “Mega Evolve” option on your move selection screen for your Steelix. Select this option before choosing an attack. For that turn, your Steelix will transform into Mega Steelix, and its stats will be boosted for the remainder of the battle. You can only Mega Evolve one Pokémon per battle, so choose your moment wisely.

Mega Steelix Stats and Strategy

Mega Evolving provides a massive boost to Steelix’s stats, particularly its Defense. Its base stat total jumps to 610, distributed as follows:

• HP: 75
• Attack: 125
• Defense: 230
• Special Attack: 55
• Special Defense: 95
• Speed: 30

With a staggering 230 Defense stat, Mega Steelix is nearly impervious to physical attacks. Its respectable 125 Attack stat also allows it to hit back hard with powerful moves like Earthquake, Heavy Slam, and Stone Edge. Its low Speed makes it a perfect candidate for a Trick Room team, where slower Pokémon move first.

Mega Steelix retains its Steel/Ground typing, giving it immunity to Electric and Poison-type moves and resistance to ten other types. However, it is weak to Fire, Water, Fighting, and Ground-type attacks, so be mindful of matchups against special attackers that can exploit its lower Special Defense.

Your Path to Dominance

Obtaining Mega Steelix is a multi-step process that requires dedication, but the reward is one of the most formidable defensive Pokémon in the game. From catching an Onix to saving up for its Mega Stone, each step brings you closer to commanding this ironclad giant. By following this guide, you will be well-equipped to add Mega Steelix to your team and dominate the battlefields of Lumiose City.