How to Unlock Mega Greninja in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

Unlike most Mega Stones that can be purchased or found through exploration, Greninjite, the Mega Stone required to evolve Greninja into Mega Greninja, is obtained through a specific, time-sensitive method.

For its initial release, Greninjite is exclusively available as a reward for competing in Ranked Battle Season 1.

This online event begins on October 16, 2025, and runs until November 5, 2025. To receive the Greninjite, players must participate in online battles and achieve at least Rank K before the season concludes. The reward will be distributed after the season ends.

It is important to note that obtaining Greninjite requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to access the game’s online features. The Pokémon Company has stated that the Mega Stones for the Kalos starters, including Greninjite, will be made available again in future seasons, but the primary way to get them at launch is through online competition.

How to Get Greninja

Before you can think about Mega Evolution, you first need a Greninja. Greninja is the final evolution of Froakie, which evolves into Frogadier at Level 16 and then into Greninja at Level 36.

You can obtain a guaranteed Froakie early in the game by completing Side Mission 09: “A Challenge from Froakie.” This mission becomes available after completing the main story up to a certain point and involves beating Froakie in a series of parkour time trials.

If you miss this opportunity or want to find more, Froakie can also be found as a rare spawn in Wild Zone 16 later in the game. Alternatively, you can transfer a Greninja from other compatible games using the Pokémon HOME service.

How to Unlock and Use Mega Greninja

Once you have a Greninja and have earned the Greninjite from Ranked Battle Season 1, the process of using Mega Evolution is straightforward.

1. Progress the Story: You must play through the main story for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to unlock the online multiplayer features and the Mega Evolution mechanic.
2. Equip the Greninjite: Once you receive the Greninjite, open your satchel and have your Greninja hold the item.
3. Activate in Battle: During a battle, you will see a transformation meter on your screen. As you attack opponents or collect glowing orbs in Rogue Mega Evolution battles, this meter will fill. Once full, switch to Greninja (if it’s not already out) and press the right thumbstick to trigger its Mega Evolution.

The transformation is temporary and lasts for a set duration in battle, but its time can be extended by continuing to collect the glowing orbs.

Tips for Success in Ranked Battle Season 1

Since getting Greninjite is tied to your performance in Ranked Battles, here are a few tips to help you reach Rank K:

• Build a Balanced Team: Don’t rely on just one or two powerful Pokémon. Create a team of six with diverse typings and movesets to cover a wide range of potential opponents.
• Understand Type Matchups: A solid understanding of Pokémon type strengths and weaknesses is fundamental. Knowing when to switch out and what moves to use will be critical to winning battles.
• Utilize Status Moves: Moves that inflict status conditions like Paralysis, Burn, or Sleep can turn the tide of a battle. Incorporate Pokémon and moves that can disrupt your opponent’s strategy.
• Mega Evolve Strategically: Don’t just Mega Evolve your first available Pokémon. Save your Mega Evolution for the right moment—either to secure a key knockout, break through a defensive wall, or set up a sweep of the opposing team.
• Practice and Adapt: Don’t be discouraged by losses. Each battle is a learning opportunity. Pay attention to the strategies other players are using and adapt your team and tactics accordingly.

Unlocking Mega Greninja requires dedication, but for trainers willing to prove their skills in online battles, the reward is one of the most powerful and stylish new Mega Evolutions in Pokémon Legends: Z-A.