Magikarp Turns Deadly in Pokémon Legends: Z-A — Alpha Uses Hydro Pump to KO Players
Players exploring Lumiose City in Pokémon Legends: Z-A have found an unexpected threat: an alpha Magikarp that can use Hydro Pump, a powerful water-type attack. Contrary to its usual reputation for only knowing Splash, this wild encounter can deal serious damage and sometimes even target the player directly.
Alpha Magikarp in Lumiose City
In Lumiose City, most Magikarp still match the Pokédex description. For example, one recent entry reads: “It is virtually worthless in terms of both power and speed.” Moreover, the same Pokédex also calls it “It is the weakest and most pathetic Pokémon in the world.” However, an alpha-sized encounter appears as a giant Magikarp with glowing red eyes, marking it as a tougher fight than a standard encounter.
Alpha enemies in the game are known to sometimes use moves their species normally would not. In this case, the alpha Magikarp can surprise players by using Hydro Pump in the wild, which is uncommon for a Magikarp seen before evolution.
オヤブンのくせに”はねる”しか脳がない♡
よわよわオヤブン♡
まさに”雑魚”♡っておﾞっふォおおﾞ！！？ pic.twitter.com/mwNhIGVQg2
— 【色違いポケモン情報発信】シャイニーハントチャンネル✨ (@SHch_official) October 17, 2025
How it behaves in battle
Initially, the alpha Magikarp appears to follow the typical pattern of flopping around, which can lull players into a false sense of security. Yet, if the battle continues it will sometimes unleash Hydro Pump. This move is one of the strongest water-type attacks and can deal heavy damage.
For clarity, Magikarp can learn other moves through leveling or TMs—such as Tackle or Hydro Pump via TM—but finding a wild alpha already using Hydro Pump is notable. Interestingly, some players report that the move can target the player character directly rather than only striking the opposing Pokémon.
Why this is surprising
First, Magikarp is widely known for its signature move Splash, which does nothing. Second, while alphas often have at least one unexpected move, a wild Magikarp using Hydro Pump is still rare enough to catch many players off guard.
A primeira vez que eu enfrentei o Magikarp alpha no Z-A foi exatamente assim
Peixe apelão safado pic.twitter.com/d8LNO7N5Lh
— 'Necro' Felipe #UnivNintendo (@necrolipe) October 18, 2025
Player reactions and capture
Players have shared their experiences online. One TikTok commenter wrote, “You know there was a dev chuckling when they put that in.” Another player posted, “That was the first way I got knocked out in this game,” followed by a crying laughing emoji. Several others say this alpha knocked them out or nearly did, and some fans recommend seeking the encounter as a prank on friends.
If you capture the alpha and then show it to the in-game Magikarp specialist, the NPC reacts with surprise, emphasizing how unexpected the catch is.
Alpha Magikarp >>> pic.twitter.com/JioUHAFnJQ
— Jay (@Jaygo6390) October 20, 2025
In short, be cautious when you see a red-eyed Magikarp in Lumiose City: it’s more dangerous than it looks.
