How to Trade Pokemon in Legends Z-A: Full Link Trade Walkthrough (2026 Update)

This is the complete 2026 guide to how to trade Pokémon in Legends Z-A — covering how to unlock trading, the full link trade walkthrough with step-by-step instructions, common error fixes, and what to do when receiving Pokémon from services like The Pokestar.

Unlocking Trading in Legends Z-A

Trading in Pokémon Legends Z-A is unlocked after reaching the Lumiose Renewal District hub in the early game — specifically after completing the first two Renovation Missions and gaining access to the City Center. This typically happens 2–3 hours into the main story.

Once unlocked, the trading interface is accessed through:

• The Pokégear (press – on the Joy-Con) → select "Connect & Trade"
• The Union Circle terminal located in the Gare de Lumiose (train station)
• Any Pokémon Center in the city — look for the trading counter on the right side

Step-by-Step: How to Link Trade in Legends Z-A

1. 1Open the Pokégear — press the – button to open your menu, then select "Connect & Trade" from the Communication section.
2. 2Select "Link Trade" — this uses a 4-digit or 8-digit trade code to connect with a specific player. Choose this option when trading with The Pokestar.
3. 3Enter the trade code — type in the 8-digit code provided in your order confirmation. Both players enter the same code to connect.
4. 4Wait for connection — the game searches for a partner with matching code. This typically takes 10–30 seconds with a stable connection.
5. 5Select your Pokémon to offer — in your Box, choose a Pokémon to give in exchange. When receiving from The Pokestar, any Pokémon works as the trade-back.
6. 6Confirm the trade — review the Pokémon details screen and press "Trade" to complete. Both players must confirm.
7. 7Trade complete — the Pokémon appears in your Box. Check the summary screen to confirm IVs, nature, and OT details.

Common Trade Errors and Fixes

If you encounter errors during the link trade process in Legends Z-A, here are the most common causes and fixes:

• Error Code 2618-0516 (Connection failed): Your NAT type may be blocking connections. Go to System Settings → Internet → Connection Status and check your NAT type. NAT Type D causes trade failures — switch to a different network or enable UPnP on your router.
• Partner not found: Double-check the trade code — one wrong digit prevents matching. Re-enter the code from your order confirmation exactly as shown.
• Trade interrupted: If the game disconnects mid-trade, neither Pokémon is sent. Simply restart the process with the same code — the Pokémon returns to your Box automatically.
• Pokémon won't load in trade screen: Restart the game and attempt the trade again. This is a Z-A-specific UI bug that self-resolves on relaunch.

What to Do When You Receive a Pokémon from The Pokestar

When the trade completes and your shiny arrives:

• Check the summary screen immediately — confirm the shiny sparkle animation, correct species, and OT name matching your order
• If anything looks different from your order, don't close the game — contact Pokestar support via the order page for a redeliver
• The Pokémon's OT will show your Trainer Name and ID since it's now registered to your save file
• Transfer to Pokémon HOME at any time — all legitimately obtained Pokestar Pokémon are HOME-compatible

Need Pokémon for other Switch titles? Browse our Scarlet & Violet collection, legendary Pokémon, or the full shiny catalogue at The Pokestar. Browse more Pokémon guides at the Pokémon News & Guides Blog.