We've all been there. Every single trainer worldwide knows the woes of desperately wanting to get Alakazam, Gengar, Machamp, and a slew of other powerful 'mon, but you don't have friends to swap with. Well, that's where Pokemon ZA trade codes come in, as this system specifically matches you with people who are after the same evolution as you, helping you both get what you want.
Of course, there are still some caveats in that you need to have the Pokemon to trade that matches what you're after. For instance, if you want a Gengar, you need a Haunter of your own to swap with whatever trainer matches with you. So make sure you check out our Pokemon ZA zones guide to ensure you know where to get Machoke, Kadabra, Phantump, Onix, Pumpkaboo, and the rest.
All Pokemon ZA trade codes
In the table below, you can see the trade codes you need to use for each evolution, along with the Pokemon ZA evolution item you need to give your 'mon to hold in some cases:
| Pokemon to trade | Evolution | Held item | Trade code |
| Haunter | Gengar | N/A | 0066 0066 |
| Kadabra | Alakazam | N/A | 0063 0063 |
| Machoke | Machamp | N/A | 0126 0126 |
| Onix | Steelix | Metal coat | 0197 0197 |
| Phantump | Trevenant | N/A | 0182 0182 |
| Pumpkaboo | Gourgeist | N/A | 0204 0204 |
| Scyther | Scizor | Metal coat | 0176 0176 |
| Slowpoke | Slowking | King's rock | 0137 0137 |
| Spritzee | Aromatisse | Sachet | 0096 0096 |
| Swirlix | Slurpuff | Whipped dream | 0098 0098 |
How do I use Pokemon ZA trade codes?
To use Pokemon ZA trade codes, you need to pause the game and head to link play. From there, you need to select link trade and opt for faraway players; the game then prompts you to enter one of the above codes. Do that, select ok, and wait until the game pairs you with a trainer using the same code.
Once you have another trainer to swap Pokemon with, you need to select a Pokemon to trade (swap a Machoke for a Machoke, for example, if you use code 0126 0126). However, whatever you do, don't confirm the trade until you ensure that your new pal is giving the Pokemon you're after - better safe than sorry, right? When you're happy, initiate the trade, and that's it. Once you have your new 'mon, it'll evolve.
