U4GM - How to Get Mega Greninja Through Hidden Quests in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

[CodeCrafter2025]

If you’ve been exploring the new world of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, you’ve probably heard the buzz about Mega Greninja. Unlike most Mega Evolutions, this one can’t be obtained through the usual methods—it’s hidden behind a series of secret quests that even seasoned Trainers can miss. After some digging (and plenty of trial and error), here’s a complete breakdown of how you can unlock Mega Greninja and add it to your ultimate team.

Step 1: Complete the Kalos Exploration Side Quests

Before you can even start the hidden questline, you’ll need to finish all side missions tied to the Kalos Exploration storyline. These quests often involve investigating Mega Energy anomalies and battling strong trainers. Completing these tasks unlocks a hidden NPC in Lumiose City who becomes key to the Mega Greninja quest.

Step 2: Find the Hidden Trainer in Lumiose City

After clearing the exploration missions, head to Lumiose City’s northern district at night. There, you’ll encounter a cloaked trainer near a fountain—this is the “Shadow Trainer.” Battling and defeating them with a Water- or Dark-type starter in your party triggers a secret dialogue that starts the Mega Greninja questline.

Step 3: Gather the “Essence of Shadows”

The Shadow Trainer will task you with collecting three “Essence of Shadows” items scattered across the region. You’ll find them in hidden caves guarded by rare Pokémon, so bring strong counters and plenty of healing items. These battles can be tough—some players even use teams built from rare or shiny Pokémon to add flair and power to the encounters.

If you don’t have a well-balanced roster, it might be worth expanding your collection first. Many trainers look for ways to buy shiny Pokémon or find cheap shiny Pokémon to strengthen their teams and complete these challenges faster. Websites like U4GM are often mentioned by the community as reliable places for that, especially for collectors who want something unique before tackling legendary-level quests.

Step 4: Defeat Shadow Greninja

Once you’ve gathered all three essences, return to the Shadow Trainer. This triggers a final battle against Shadow Greninja, a tough opponent capable of switching between Water and Dark forms mid-fight. Winning the battle purifies Greninja, allowing you to receive the “Greninite” Mega Stone as a reward.

Step 5: Unlock Mega Greninja

Equip the Greninite on your Greninja, and you’ll gain access to its Mega Evolution form during battle. Mega Greninja has boosted Speed and Special Attack, making it one of the fastest sweepers in the game. It’s especially effective in competitive modes and raid battles, where its adaptability really shines.


Finding Mega Greninja in Pokémon Legends: Z-A isn’t just about power—it’s about uncovering one of the game’s most well-crafted secrets. The hidden questline ties beautifully into Kalos lore and rewards players who love exploration and discovery. Whether you prefer grinding it out the old-fashioned way or enhancing your roster through methods like buy shiny Pokémon, the journey to Mega Greninja is absolutely worth it.