Starting your adventure in Pokémon Legends: Z-A can feel both exciting and overwhelming. With a massive open world, new mechanics, and plenty of rare Pokémon to catch, having the right items early on can make a huge difference. Whether you’re trying to survive tough wild encounters or build your ideal team, knowing which tools to prioritize will help you hit the ground running. Here’s a look at the best early-game items to grab—and how to make the most of them.



1. Potions and Revives: Your Survival Essentials



It might sound obvious, but don’t underestimate the value of Potions and Revives in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. The early areas are full of aggressive Pokémon that can quickly take down an unprepared team. Keeping a stock of basic Potions ensures your Pokémon can stay in battle longer, especially before you gain access to stronger healing items. Revives are less common early on, but they’re worth buying whenever available, particularly before major encounters or exploration trips.



2. Poké Balls and Specialty Variants



Poké Balls are your bread and butter for expanding your roster. In Z-A, you’ll find multiple variants early on—such as Feather Balls or Heavy Balls—that cater to different catching strategies. Feather Balls, for example, are great for catching fast or flying Pokémon from a distance. Always carry a mix to maximize efficiency.



If you’re planning to collect powerful or rare Pokémon later, you might want to save some in-game currency or resources. Some players even choose tobuy alpha Pokémon orbuy alpha shiny Pokémon from trusted player marketplaces like U4GM to bolster their collection quickly. It’s an optional shortcut, but it can save a lot of grinding if you’re short on time.



3. Berries: Small but Mighty



Berries are incredibly useful in the early hours. Oran Berries can restore HP, while Razz and Nanab Berries make wild Pokémon easier to approach. Stockpiling a few can help when you’re sneaking through tall grass or trying to land that perfect catch. Don’t forget to plant or gather them whenever possible—they’re a renewable resource that pays off long-term.



4. Crafting Materials and Recipes



Crafting plays a major role in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Early access to crafting recipes for Poké Balls, Smoke Bombs, and Healing Items lets you stay independent from Poké Marts. Iron Chunks, Apricorns, and Tumblestones should always be on your radar. Even if you’re not planning to craft constantly, having materials ready means you’ll never get stuck when supplies run low in the wild.



5. Smoke Bombs and Stealth Sprays



Early stealth tools are game-changers. Smoke Bombs create cover so you can sneak up on wary Pokémon, while Stealth Sprays reduce the chance of being noticed. These are perfect for catching higher-level Pokémon without engaging in battle. They’re also essential for exploring dangerous zones safely—especially if you’re still leveling your team.



Mastering the early game in Pokémon Legends: Z-A isn’t about luck—it’s about preparation. Focus on sustainable resources, always keep healing and stealth items in your bag, and make smart use of crafting. For collectors who want to get ahead or complete their Pokédex faster, communities and trading hubs like U4GM offer opportunities to buy alpha Pokémon or buy alpha shiny Pokémon, which can complement your in-game progress.