How to Catch Shiny Raichu in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

[Eleanor]

Shiny hunting has always been one of the most rewarding parts of any Pokémon game, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A is no exception. Among the Electric-type favorites, Raichu stands out not just for its battle potential but also for its sleek golden-orange Shiny form. If you’re aiming to add a Shiny Raichu to your collection, here’s everything you need to know about where to find it, how to increase your odds, and what to prepare before the hunt begins.

1. Where to Find Raichu in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Raichu can appear in several electric-themed zones and late-game biomes, often alongside its pre-evolutions. The most consistent spawn areas include:

Lumiose Power Plant – This industrial area is filled with Electric-type Pokémon, including Raichu and Pikachu. It’s one of the best spots for Shiny hunting thanks to frequent respawns.

Verdant Plaza (Thunderstorm Weather) – During thunderstorms, wild Pikachu and Raichu appear more often. Try revisiting this location under those conditions for better results.

Mega Dimension Fields – If you’ve unlocked this post-game zone, Raichu can spawn here at higher levels, sometimes even holding rare items.

If you’re specifically targeting a Shiny, save your game near a spawn area and reset if no Shiny appears. This traditional method remains effective even in Z-A’s more dynamic overworld system.

2. Boosting Your Shiny Odds

Catching a Shiny Raichu takes patience, but there are several methods to improve your chances:

Complete the Raichu Pokédex Entry – As with previous Legends titles, completing Pokédex research tasks for a specific Pokémon slightly boosts Shiny rates.

Use Sparkling Sandwiches or Aura Meals – Certain recipes in Pokémon Legends: Z-A can temporarily increase Shiny encounter rates for specific types. Look for those that boost Electric-type spawns.

Mass Outbreaks and Chain Hunts – Keep an eye on the in-game announcements for Electric-type outbreaks. Raichu outbreaks have a significantly higher chance of producing a Shiny spawn compared to random encounters.

3. Evolution Method – From Shiny Pikachu to Shiny Raichu

If direct Shiny Raichu encounters are too rare, try evolving a Shiny Pikachu instead. Pikachu appears more frequently and is easier to farm in certain early-game areas. You’ll just need a Thunder Stone to trigger evolution.

Pro tip: evolve during the nighttime for screenshots with softer lighting that show off Raichu’s golden hue beautifully.

4. Ideal Setup for Shiny Hunting

Before heading out, make sure to bring Pokémon that can help you avoid accidentally fainting your Shiny target:

Gallade with False Swipe – Keeps the Raichu at 1 HP.

A Ghost-type like Gengar – Useful for avoiding Electric attacks if the battle drags out.

Plenty of Ultra Balls or Feather Balls – Raichu can flee after taking damage, so be prepared for quick throws.

If you’re collecting competitive Shinies or planning a full Electric-type team, it’s a good idea to shop for Pokémon ZA items regularly in the game’s city shops or trading hubs. Some vendors offer exclusive hunting gear and items that make farming easier.

5. Trading and Community Tips

Not every player has the patience for long hunts. If you prefer to expand your collection through trades, it’s common in the community to buy shiny Pokémon Legends ZA collections from trusted in-game markets or trade boards. Just remember to check that any Pokémon you receive are legitimate and not glitched spawns—fair trades keep the economy healthy for everyone.

Catching a Shiny Raichu in Pokémon Legends: Z-A is one of those achievements that feels both challenging and satisfying. With the right strategy, persistence, and a bit of luck, you’ll eventually spot that radiant flash of gold in the tall grass or the city outskirts. Whether you’re hunting solo, participating in community events, or just exploring for fun, the thrill of encountering a Shiny never gets old.

So stock up on items, prepare your team, and may your next Electric-type encounter sparkle brighter than ever.