Machoke has always been one of the most iconic Fighting-type Pokémon, and in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, it retains its reputation as a powerhouse. Whether you’re training it for your story team or preparing for competitive battles, understanding how to get the most out of Machoke is essential. This guide will cover everything from where to find Machop to how to evolve Machoke into Machamp efficiently.
Where to Find Machop and Machoke
Machop can often be found in rocky or mountainous regions across Pokémon Legends: Z-A. These areas are usually populated by other Fighting- or Rock-type Pokémon, so be ready for some tough encounters. Machoke, on the other hand, appears less frequently in the wild but can sometimes be spotted in the same regions at higher levels.
If you’re hunting for specific variants like shiny forms, you might need to invest some extra time in battling and resetting spawns. Some players prefer to
buy shiny Pokémon from community trades or events, though you can always farm them through patience and persistence in-game.
Best Training Methods for Machoke
Machoke excels in Attack and decent bulk, making it an ideal close-range fighter. Focus on the following stats when training:
Attack (ATK): Prioritize this to maximize Machoke’s physical damage.
HP and Defense: Boosting these ensures Machoke can take hits in long battles.
Speed: Optional, but helpful if you want it to strike before slower opponents.
The best training spots are areas with mid- to high-level Pokémon that grant plenty of experience, especially Fighting-weak enemies like Normal or Rock types. Pair Machoke with a Pokémon that can handle Psychic opponents, which are its biggest threat.
Recommended Moveset
Machoke has access to several high-damage moves that make it dangerous both early and late in the game. A balanced moveset could look like this:
Dynamic Punch – Devastating power with a chance to confuse.
Close Combat – A reliable heavy-hitting STAB attack.
Rock Slide – Useful for Flying-type opponents.
Bulk Up – Increases Attack and Defense for longer fights.
You can adjust these moves based on your strategy or the kind of enemies you often face.
How to Evolve Machoke into Machamp
Traditionally, Machoke evolves into Machamp when traded. However, Pokémon Legends: Z-A introduces new evolution methods that make things easier for solo players. Instead of needing a trade, you can use a special evolution item—often obtained through quests or rare drops—to evolve Machoke directly. Check your inventory for items like the “Link Cable,” which functions similarly to a trade evolution tool.
Once evolved, Machamp becomes one of the strongest physical attackers in the game, capable of taking down even bulky opponents with raw power.
Shiny Hunting and Collecting Tips
Shiny Machop and Machoke have slightly different shades of green, making them stand out easily. To increase your odds of finding one, complete Pokédex research tasks related to their species or chain battles to boost shiny rates. For collectors who don’t want to grind endlessly, there are always community options to buy shiny Pokémon or look for
cheap shiny Pokémon ZA through in-game trades and events. Just remember that official gameplay always rewards effort and patience most.
Machoke is more than just a stepping stone to Machamp—it’s a solid fighter in its own right. With the right training and moveset, it can handle nearly any challenge in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Whether you’re hunting for a shiny, building a Fighting-type team, or just completing your Pokédex, Machoke remains one of the most rewarding Pokémon to train and evolve.
