Season 2 of Pokémon Legends ZA has introduced some exciting shifts in the competitive meta, with new additions like Xernius, Yvolt, and Dianci making waves in ranked battles. After spending extensive time testing and analyzing these Pokémon, I’ve put together a detailed breakdown of their stats, move pools, and practical viability. Whether you’re aiming to climb the ranks or just fine-tune your team, here’s a structured guide from a player’s perspective.

S-Tier Pokémon: The Powerhouses of Season 2

Xernius

Xernius remains a dominant force in competitive play thanks to its signature move, Gmancy, which doubles its special attack, special defense, and speed temporarily. This can turn the tide of a battle, especially in a four-player lobby where you can set it up strategically while others are engaged. Its coverage moves—Dazzling Gleam, Moon Blast, Thunderbolt, Thunder, and Flash Cannon—allow it to handle a wide range of opponents, including common threats like Gyarados and other Xernius.

Holding items like Quick Claw or Scope Lens can further optimize its performance. With maxed special attack and perfect IVs, Xernius is easily an S-tier choice, giving players consistent offensive and strategic advantages.

Gardavore

Gardavore excels due to its versatile move pool and ability to sustain itself in battles. Moves like Draining Kiss and Light Screen make it a solid support option while also allowing it to threaten other Pokémon effectively. While it can’t outperform Xernius in a direct matchup, having Gardavore on your team provides strong coverage and utility, particularly if you’re not running a restricted Pokémon like Xernius. Its Mega Evolution also adds visual flair and competitive viability.

Star Me

Star Me’s new Mega Evolution is nothing short of a game-changer. With stats skyrocketing from 520 to 660 in total, it gains 140 attack, 130 special attack, and improved bulk across the board. Combined with a robust move pool that includes Flip Turn, Liquidation, Thunderbolt, and Flash Cannon, Star Me can flexibly switch between physical and special attacks while providing team-wide support. This makes it a surprisingly well-rounded option despite its traditionally “meme” reputation.

If you’re struggling to find strong Pokémon to complement your Xernius or Garchomp, Star Me is a powerful choice. For newer players, this is a prime example of why some turn-based strategies in Pokémon Legends ZA reward planning ahead rather than just raw power.

A-Tier Pokémon: Strong Choices With Minor Drawbacks

Yvolt

Yvolt is an interesting option with balanced stats identical to Xernius. Its signature move, Oblivion Wing, provides sustain by restoring health, making it moderately durable in long battles. However, the prevalence of lightning and rock moves in the meta can make Yvolt vulnerable, and due to the one-restricted-Pokémon rule, Xernius typically outshines it in most team compositions. I’d slot Yvolt into high A-tier territory; it’s viable, just not as universally dominant as Xernius.

Dragonite

Dragonite’s Mega Evolution adds special attack and defensive boosts, but it shifts its stats away from physical offense, which can be a slight drawback. Its versatile move pool—Hurricane, Outrage, Air Slash, Earthquake, and coverage moves like Flamethrower—allows flexible builds. Dragonite is not restricted, which makes it easier to include alongside other top-tier Pokémon. Still, careful stat management and move selection are key to maximizing its effectiveness.

Lucario

Lucario continues to be a solid split attacker with strong coverage through moves like Bullet Punch, Close Combat, Iron Tail, and elemental punches. The main drawback is its fragility; Lucario is easily one-shot if not properly protected. For players seeking an “assassin” style fighter or someone to cover multiple types, Lucario is a viable pick, but expect to play strategically around its weaknesses.

B-Tier Pokémon: Niche or Situational Picks

Dianci

Despite its Mega Evolution, Dianci struggles due to low health and susceptibility to common water-type attacks. While it has some decent offensive moves, its lack of survivability makes it difficult to justify as a restricted Pokémon. It can fit niche roles, but generally, it’s better to opt for more durable choices in your main lineup.

Embor

Embor is a physical fire/fighting-type attacker with a respectable move pool but suffers against common Xernius picks due to type disadvantages. It’s enjoyable to use for players seeking variety, but it won’t consistently perform at the top level.

Meganium & Venusaur

Both Grass-types excel as support Pokémon. Meganium can apply Light Screen, Giga Drain, and Reflect, while Venusaur offers similar sustain options. However, fire-types and popular meta threats can easily counter them. These Pokémon are best utilized for balanced teams that need utility rather than outright damage output.

Competitive Tips and Personal Insights

• Consider adding coverage moves strategically rather than filling your Pokémon with every possible attack. Specializing can be more effective than trying to be a jack-of-all-trades.

• Mega Evolutions are visually exciting, but don’t forget their stat shifts. Test movesets thoroughly to ensure your Mega form complements your core strategy.

• For players looking to save time in acquiring rare Pokémon, it’s worth noting that some services allow you to buy shiny Pokémon, though be cautious and verify their legitimacy. In the same vein, if you’re specifically targeting regional exclusives, you might explore options to buy ZA shiny Pokémon. A reputable platform like U4GM can streamline this process, but always prioritize account safety and legality.

Season 2 of Pokémon Legends ZA presents a dynamic meta with several standouts like Xernius, Garchomp, and Star Me dominating the competitive scene. While A- and B-tier Pokémon can still be viable with strategic play, understanding move pools, stat allocation, and the interplay between restricted and non-restricted Pokémon is key. Whether you’re crafting a powerhouse team or experimenting with flexible strategies, keeping these rankings in mind will give you a competitive edge.