If you’re wondering how to evolve Machoke in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, you’re not alone. Many trainers struggle with trade-based evolutions. This guide explains exactly how to evolve Machoke into Machamp, where to find it, and what you need to make it happen.
About Machoke
Machoke is a Fighting-type Pokémon known for its raw power and muscular build. It evolves from Machop at Level 28 and later evolves into Machamp through trading. You’ll recognize it by its grey body, ripped physique, and power belt — which it uses to keep its immense strength in check.
Machoke is described as having superhuman strength. Without the belt, its power could go out of control. This makes it one of the strongest mid-stage evolutions in the Pokémon world. In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, its stats and combat abilities make it a solid choice for physical battles.
Key Attributes
- Type: Fighting
- Strong Against: Normal, Rock, Ice, Steel, and Dark types
- Weak Against: Psychic, Fairy, Flying types
- Evolution Line: Machop → Machoke → Machamp
Its final evolution, Machamp, is known for its four powerful arms and unmatched attack power, making it one of the best Fighting-type Pokémon in the game.
Where to Find Machoke in Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Machoke is usually found in Wild Zones around Lumiose City. The most reliable locations are:
- Wild Zone 12: Trainers report finding Machoke here after reaching Rank E or higher.
- Wild Zone 8: You can catch a Machop here and evolve it into Machoke at Level 28.
If you’re early in the game, catching a Machop is faster than waiting to find a Machoke. Level it up to 28, and you’ll have your own Machoke ready for evolution.
Pro Tip: Use Pokémon with Sleep or Paralysis moves to make catching Machoke easier. It tends to resist capture due to its strength.
How to Evolve Machoke in Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Evolving Machoke into Machamp is not automatic — you can’t just level it up. It requires trading, just like in the mainline Pokémon games. Follow these exact steps:
Step 1: Prepare for Trade
You’ll need an active Nintendo Switch Online membership to trade Pokémon with other players. Make sure your internet connection is stable before starting.
Step 2: Access the Link Trade Feature
Go to your in-game menu and open the Link Trade option. This allows you to connect with another player online or locally.
Step 3: Find a Trading Partner
You have two main options:
- Trade with a friend: The safest and most reliable method.
- Use a trade code: Pokémon communities online often share specific codes so strangers can help each other evolve trade-based Pokémon like Machoke.
Step 4: Trade Machoke
Once you trade your Machoke to another player, it will instantly evolve into Machamp upon reaching the recipient’s game.
Step 5: Get Machamp Back
Ask your trading partner to trade it back immediately. Once it’s returned, you’ll have your fully evolved Machamp ready for battle.
Why Evolve Machoke into Machamp?
You might wonder if it’s worth trading Machoke. The answer is yes — absolutely. Here’s why.
1. Huge Stat Boost
Machamp’s base stats are significantly higher than Machoke’s, especially in Attack and HP. It becomes a true powerhouse that can dominate physical fights.
2. Better Moves
After evolving, Machamp can learn stronger moves such as Dynamic Punch, Cross Chop, and Close Combat, which deal devastating damage.
3. Battle Advantage
Machamp’s Fighting-type strength makes it a top-tier choice against Rock and Steel-type opponents. If you’re taking on tough gyms or trainers, it can easily turn the tide of battle.
4. Competitive Edge
In PvP or online battles, Machamp is highly valued for its offense and endurance. Its ability to take hits while dealing massive damage makes it reliable in both casual and ranked matches.
Common Questions About Machoke Evolution
1. Can Machoke Evolve Without Trading?
No, Machoke cannot evolve into Machamp through leveling up or items. Trading is the only way. However, future updates or special events in Pokémon Legends: Z-A might introduce alternative methods.
2. Do I Need a Special Item to Trade?
No. You just need internet access and Nintendo Switch Online membership. There’s no evolution stone or held item required.
3. Can I Trade Locally?
Yes, local wireless trades are supported if both players are nearby and have the game installed. This doesn’t need online access.
4. Will My Machoke Keep Its Held Item After Trade?
Yes. When your Machoke evolves and is traded back, it retains all items, moves, and stats.
Strengths of Machamp After Evolution
Machamp’s value lies in its sheer power and combat efficiency. Here’s what you gain after evolution:
| Stat | Machoke | Machamp |
|---|---|---|
| HP | 80 | 90 |
| Attack | 100 | 130 |
| Defense | 70 | 80 |
| Speed | 45 | 55 |
| Total Power | 295 | 355 |
Machamp’s Attack stat of 130 makes it a heavy hitter. Combined with its access to moves like Earthquake and Stone Edge, it becomes an all-round fighter.
Tips for Training Machoke Before Evolution
- Focus on Attack EVs. Use Power Bracers or battle Rock-type Pokémon to raise its Attack stats.
- Teach it useful moves early. Moves like Karate Chop and Submission are great before evolution.
- Equip Battle Items. Black Belt or Muscle Band boosts its Fighting-type moves.
- Use EXP Candies to speed up leveling if you want to evolve it faster.
Using Machamp in Battle
Once evolved, Machamp can play different roles depending on your strategy.
Offensive Role
- Moveset Example: Dynamic Punch, Earthquake, Ice Punch, Stone Edge
- Held Item: Muscle Band or Life Orb
- Strategy: Go all-out attack; Machamp thrives in aggressive playstyles.
Defensive Role
- Moveset Example: Bulk Up, Rest, Knock Off, Drain Punch
- Held Item: Leftovers
- Strategy: Build up defenses with Bulk Up and heal using Drain Punch.
Final Thoughts
Evolving Machoke in Pokémon Legends: Z-A is straightforward but requires effort. You must trade it — there’s no shortcut. Once evolved, Machamp becomes one of the strongest Fighting-type Pokémon you can have in your lineup. Whether you’re exploring Wild Zones or challenging tough opponents, Machamp is a powerhouse that delivers every time.
If you want a Pokémon that’s strong, reliable, and iconic, evolving Machoke into Machamp should be one of your top priorities in Legends: Z-A.