What Is the Master Ball and Why Is It So Special?
The Master Ball is an iconic item in the Pokémon franchise. Unlike other Poké Balls, it guarantees a 100% catch rate. That means no matter how tough the Pokémon is, whether it’s a wild legendary or a shiny, the Master Ball will capture it with ease. Because of its rarity and power, it’s something every player dreams of adding to their inventory.
In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the Master Ball’s role remains just as crucial. Whether you're trying to catch that elusive shiny Pokémon or a powerful alpha, the Master Ball is your best friend.
How Many Master Balls Can You Obtain in the Game?
If you’re playing Pokémon Legends: Z-A and wondering how many Master Balls are available, the answer is a little more complicated than a simple number. Most players will only have access to a single Master Ball throughout the game. This is usually given as a reward for completing major milestones, like defeating a boss or completing a particular storyline quest.
There are no unlimited Master Balls, which makes them even more precious. So, you’ll want to save it for a Pokémon you absolutely don’t want to miss. In general, these are the types of Pokémon that players would use the Master Ball on:
Legendary Pokémon: These are the hardest and most rewarding to catch, so the Master Ball is often reserved for them.
Shiny Pokémon: Finding a shiny Pokémon is a rare event, and if you want to ensure you catch it, using a Master Ball is a smart move.
Alpha Pokémon: While not as rare as shinies or legendaries, alpha Pokémon are still tough opponents, making the Master Ball a valuable asset.
Can You Buy Master Balls in Pokémon Legends: Z-A?
Unlike some other games in the franchise, you cannot simply buy Master Balls in Pokémon Legends: Z-A through regular in-game shops. The Master Ball is a unique item, and as mentioned, it’s usually obtained through story progression or completing challenging feats within the game.
However, there are third-party services where you can buy shiny Pokémon or even shiny alpha Pokémon. For example, you can buy shiny Pokémon from certain marketplaces like U4GM. This is a great option for players who don’t have the patience to hunt for shiny Pokémon themselves but still want to add these rare creatures to their collection. Similarly, U4GM also allows you to buy shiny alpha Pokémon, which could be a helpful shortcut for collectors looking to boost their team.
That being said, don’t rely too heavily on these services, as capturing your own Pokémon can be a much more rewarding experience. Plus, there's nothing quite like the thrill of capturing a shiny Pokémon yourself!
When Should You Use Your Master Ball?
Since Master Balls are so rare, it's important to use them wisely. Here are some tips on when you should consider using your Master Ball:
For Legendary Pokémon: If you’re hunting for a legendary Pokémon, such as those tied to the storyline or special events, a Master Ball is a safe bet to ensure you don’t miss it.
For Shinies or Alpha Pokémon: If you come across a shiny or alpha Pokémon, you’ll want to use your Master Ball to guarantee its capture. After all, shiny Pokémon are already rare, and the odds of encountering one are low.
When You’re Running Out of Poké Balls: In some cases, you might run out of your standard Poké Balls or Ultra Balls while hunting for tough creatures. The Master Ball can be a lifesaver in such moments.
Are There Any Other Ways to Catch Legendary or Shiny Pokémon?
While the Master Ball is the most reliable way to catch any Pokémon you want, there are other strategies you can use to increase your chances of success, especially when it comes to shiny Pokémon.
Use a Shiny Charm: The Shiny Charm increases the chances of encountering shiny Pokémon. If you're aiming to catch a shiny, it’s a good idea to maximize your chances by completing certain in-game achievements to unlock this item.
Increase Your Catch Rates: Other items, like the False Swipe move or the use of certain Poké Balls like the Quick Ball or Timer Ball, can help increase your odds of catching tough Pokémon. While these won’t guarantee a catch like the Master Ball, they can significantly improve your chances.
Soft Resetting: If you're specifically hunting for a shiny or a rare alpha, soft resetting can be an effective method. By resetting your game before each encounter, you can try repeatedly for the best outcomes, including shiny or legendary Pokémon.
Is the Master Ball Worth It?
In the end, the Master Ball in Pokémon Legends: Z-A is a valuable, one-time-use item that can be a game-changer for your collection. While you can’t buy it, its rarity adds to its prestige. Whether you're hunting for a legendary Pokémon, a shiny, or an alpha, knowing when to use your Master Ball can make all the difference.
But remember, capturing Pokémon is about more than just getting the rarest ones. The journey of catching them, leveling them up, and seeing them grow into your battle-ready companions is what makes the game so rewarding. So, while it's tempting to use your Master Ball on every rare find, it’s often worth it to save it for that one unforgettable Pokémon.
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