As Pokémon Legends: Z-A reshapes our adventure through Lumiose City and its surrounding wild zones, players are once again discovering iconic Pokémon in a brand-new light. Among the standout returning species is Staryu, a mysterious Water-type Pokémon that longtime fans adore for its glowing gem core and regeneration abilities. If you’re looking to evolve Staryu into the elegant and battle-ready Starmie, you’ve landed in the right place.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know — from where to find Staryu, how its evolution works, the best way to obtain a Water Stone, and expert gameplay tips to make your journey smooth and rewarding. Let’s dive deep into how to evolve Staryu in Pokémon Legends: Z-A like a true Pokémon Master!
🌟 Meet Staryu — The Living Star of the Sea
Staryu has been part of the Pokémon universe since Generation 1 and remains one of the most intriguing aquatic creatures in the franchise. Its unique five-point star shape, rotating limbs, and central red core (known as the “core gem”) make it visually striking. In Pokémon lore, this gem pulses similarly to a heartbeat — a detail that emphasizes Staryu’s mystical biology.
✨ Key Characteristics of Staryu
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Water |
| Behavior | Mostly active at night |
| Special Trait | Can regenerate its body if its core remains intact |
| Evolution Item | Water Stone |
| Final Evolution | Starmie (Water/Psychic) |
One of the coolest aspects about Staryu is that it can regenerate from severe damage as long as the core gem stays intact. This trait alone makes Staryu feel almost alien — and incredibly fascinating.
🗺️ Where to Find Staryu in Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Before evolution comes capture — and Staryu is not found just anywhere.
Staryu typically inhabits aquatic zones, and in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, your best chance of encountering it lies in Wild Zone 2. However, unlike many Water-type Pokémon that appear throughout the day, Staryu prefers moonlight.
🎯 Staryu Location Details
| Location | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wild Zone 2 | Night | Main spawn location |
| Wild Zone 10 | Later in story | Secondary spawn area |
⏰ Important Tip — Time Matters!
Staryu only spawns at night. To make it easier:
Sit at a bench or camp and choose “Rest until night” to change the in-game time.
This small trick saves time and lets you streamline your Staryu hunt.
🔥 Bonus — Alpha Staryu
If you’re feeling daring, keep an eye out for a glowing Alpha Staryu in Wild Zone 2. These larger, more powerful variants offer:
- Higher stats
- Increased difficulty
- Better team value later in the game
Capturing an Alpha Staryu not only gives bragging rights but also prepares you for a powerful Starmie evolution.
🪨 Step-by-Step Guide — How to Evolve Staryu in Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Once you have your Staryu, the real journey begins — evolution! Unlike many Pokémon that require leveling up or friendship, Staryu evolves in a much simpler way.
✅ Evolution Requirements
- A Water Stone
- The Staryu you caught
- Nothing else — no level or friendship requirement!
🔽 Step-by-Step Staryu Evolution Process
1️⃣ Get a Water Stone
Water Stones are essential evolutionary items in the game. The most dependable source is:
Stone Emporium – Southern Lumiose City
However, it only becomes accessible after Mission 6 in the main storyline, so make sure you’ve progressed far enough.
💡 Other ways to find Water Stones:
- Random wild zone exploration (rare drops)
- Special missions or chests
- Marketplace NPC trades (occasionally available)
2️⃣ Open Your Satchel
Head into your bag and locate the Water Stone. If you have more than one evolutionary stone, double-check the selection.
3️⃣ Select Staryu
Choose Staryu as the target Pokémon to apply the Water Stone to.
4️⃣ Witness the Evolution
The moment you confirm — boom! Staryu transforms into the sleek, psychic-infused Starmie.
⚙️ Why This Evolution Is Great
- Instant transformation
- No grinding levels
- No friendship requirement
- Evolution works at any time you choose
You decide when the upgrade happens — perfect for customizing your team strategy.
🌌 Meet Starmie — The Cosmic Water-Psychic Pokémon
Once evolved, Staryu becomes Starmie, one of the most versatile Water-types in Pokémon history. Whether you’re battling Trainers, roaming wild zones, or completing missions, Starmie excels.
⭐ Starmie Highlights
- Dual Type: Water/Psychic
- High Speed: Great for striking first
- Excellent Special Attack: Devastating move options
- Access to Psychic abilities: Versatile and strategic
- Ideal for both offense and utility roles
Starmie has been a competitive favorite in many Pokémon games — and Legends: Z-A is no exception.
🧠 Battle Tips for Starmie in Legends: Z-A
To get the most out of your shiny new Starmie, consider these tactical tips:
Best Moves to Consider
| Category | Recommended Moves |
|---|---|
| Water | Surf, Hydro Pump |
| Psychic | Psychic, Psyshock |
| Support | Recover, Light Screen, Ice Beam |
Suggested Battle Strategy
- Use Hydro Pump for raw power
- Cover weaknesses with Ice Beam
- Use Psychic to dominate Fighting-types
- Consider Recover for longevity during difficult missions
With the right setup, Starmie becomes a fearsome team asset, capable of turning difficult battles in your favor.
💡 FAQs About Evolving Staryu in Pokémon Legends: Z-A
❓ Do I need to level up Staryu before evolving?
No. You can evolve Staryu at any level using a Water Stone.
❓ Can Staryu evolve during the day?
Yes, evolution works anytime — but catching requires night.
❓ Can Alpha Staryu evolve into Alpha Starmie?
Yes — Alpha Pokémon remain Alpha after evolution.
❓ Is Starmie worth using in Legends: Z-A?
Absolutely. Starmie’s speed, dual typing, and special attack moves make it one of the strongest Water-type options for mid-to-late game teams.
🏁 Final Thoughts — Your Path to Starmie Starts Tonight
Evolving Staryu in Pokémon Legends: Z-A is one of the simplest yet most rewarding upgrades you can make to your team. Whether you’re exploring wild zones, tackling missions, or preparing for challenging battles, Starmie delivers exceptional utility and power.
✅ Quick Summary
| Task | Action |
|---|---|
| Find Staryu | Wild Zone 2 (night), Wild Zone 10 later |
| Get Water Stone | Stone Emporium (after Mission 6) |
| Evolve | Use Water Stone from Satchel |
| Result | Instant evolution into Starmie |
So grab your Water Stone, head out at night, and get yourself the star of the sea — because a Starmie-powered journey is one full of exciting victories.
Happy exploring, Trainer — and may your Starmie shine bright! ✨