Gyarados is one of the most iconic and powerful Pokémon in the Pokémon universe, known for its intimidating presence and formidable stats. In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, this water and flying-type Pokémon continues to be a fan-favorite, thanks to its sheer power and fierce appearance. But the question remains: How to Catch or Buy Gyarados in Pokémon Legends: Z-A? This guide will walk you through the different ways to acquire Gyarados in the game, whether through capturing or purchasing, and give you some tips on how to make the most of it once you have it in your roster.

Catching Gyarados in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

Catching Gyarados in Pokémon Legends: Z-A isn’t as straightforward as other Pokémon. It requires a bit of strategy and some patience. Here's how you can find and catch Gyarados in the wild:

1. Locate Gyarados’ Spawn Areas

Gyarados can be found in specific water regions throughout the game. The key to catching it lies in finding the right locations. Some of the best spots to search for Gyarados include large lakes, rivers, or coastal areas. Pay attention to the game’s map and look for bodies of water where Gyarados might be lurking.

2. Gyarados’ Appearance and Battle

When you encounter Gyarados, be prepared for a tough battle. This Pokémon is known for its powerful moves, so it’s recommended to have a strong team with effective counter moves, such as Electric-type or Rock-type attacks. Gyarados also has a relatively low catch rate, so bringing plenty of Ultra Balls and status-inducing moves like Paralysis or Sleep will increase your chances of capturing it.

3. Shiny Gyarados

If you’re lucky, you might encounter a shiny Gyarados. While shiny Pokémon have a low spawn rate, finding one can be a rewarding experience. The appearance of a shiny Gyarados differs with its unique red color. Keep an eye out for this rare variant if you’re interested in adding something special to your collection.

Buying Gyarados in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

If you're not keen on the lengthy process of hunting and battling, purchasing Gyarados is another viable option. In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, you can buy Gyarados through the in-game shop or from special NPC vendors in certain towns.

1. In-Game Store

Head to the nearest in-game store where various high-tier Pokémon are available for purchase. You can often find rare Pokémon like Gyarados being sold for a substantial amount of in-game currency. Make sure you have enough currency saved up, as this legendary Pokémon doesn’t come cheap.

2. Special Events and NPCs

In some instances, certain events or NPCs in the game offer rare Pokémon for sale. Gyarados might appear as part of a limited-time promotion or special event, so keep an eye out for announcements in the game’s news section. These events provide a more direct way to add a Gyarados to your team without the hassle of catching it.

Making the Most of Gyarados

Once you have Gyarados on your team, it’s important to use it wisely. With its powerful moves like Hydro Pump and Dragon Dance, Gyarados is a great asset in both PvE and PvP scenarios. Don’t forget to give it a few TMs or an Evolution Stone if you want to enhance its abilities further.

Also, Gyarados excels in certain battle formats, especially those where Water-type and Flying-type Pokémon shine. Make sure to build your team around Gyarados' strengths to maximize its potential in battle.

By following these strategies, you’ll be able to catch or buy Gyarados in Pokémon Legends: Z-A and add one of the most powerful and iconic Pokémon to your roster. Whether through capturing or purchasing, Gyarados is sure to become an essential part of your team.