Players of Pokémon Legends Z-A have recently uncovered that the game implements a shiny lock on the species Mareep located in Wild Zone 1. This shiny lock remains in effect until players complete the early side quest titled “A Shiny Mareep?.” Researcher Anubis revealed that all Mareep in this area are designated as “never shiny” until the quest is finished, compelling players to engage with the side mission to access normal shiny odds for future encounters.
The side quest challenges players to locate a guaranteed shiny Mareep for a non-playable character (NPC). Completion of this task is essential, as it lifts the shiny lock, allowing players to capture Mareep with regular shiny probabilities thereafter. Players can technically possess all three shiny forms of Mareep, but catching the shiny Mareep during the quest is not mandatory. Anubis shared a video clip demonstrating the shiny lock, confirming that these Mareep generate as “never shiny” until the side mission is completed.
Impact on Shiny Hunting
This mechanic positions Pokémon Legends Z-A among a select few mainline Pokémon games to restrict shiny appearances for an entire species in a specific area. Although players can hunt Flaaffy and Ampharos in other regions of the game, the shiny lock on Mareep in Wild Zone 1 could lead to frustration for players who unknowingly spend hours hunting for a shiny that cannot be found until they complete the quest.
The reasoning behind this design choice remains speculative, as Game Freak has not issued an official statement. Anubis posited that if players begin the quest for a shiny Mareep and unexpectedly encounter one in the wild, they might capture it prematurely. This would lead to confusion for players who fail to understand why the NPC does not accept the shiny Mareep. The current design choice mirrors similar shiny locks present in earlier Pokémon titles, such as Scarlet and Violet, where the first available Fletchling and Bunnelby are also shiny-locked until later stages in the game.
Reactions from the Community
The shiny lock mechanic has sparked discussions among the community, particularly among dedicated shiny hunters. For many, the first shiny Mareep encountered will be guaranteed, yet the feeling of accomplishment may be diminished due to the locked nature of this encounter. Players may find themselves questioning the intention behind the shiny lock, as it presents an unexpected twist in the game’s design.
As players continue to explore the world of Pokémon Legends Z-A, they are encouraged to engage with side quests to enhance their gameplay experience. The shiny lock on Mareep serves as a reminder of the importance of completing quests and understanding game mechanics before diving into the shiny hunting experience. This revelation not only adds depth to the gameplay but also highlights the intricate design choices that developers implement to guide players through their adventures.
