Delving Back into the Abyss: Can You Return to Area Zero in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?
Yes, absolutely! You can revisit Area Zero after beating the game in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. This post-game exploration opens up new opportunities for battling, catching, and uncovering more secrets within the Great Crater of Paldea. So, prepare your team and get ready to delve back into this mysterious and exciting location.
Unlocking the Depths: How to Re-enter Area Zero
Area Zero isn’t just a one-and-done location. Once you’ve completed the main story questlines – Victory Road, Path of Legends, and Starfall Street – and reached the end, you’ll be granted the freedom to return. This allows you to further explore the unique environment and encounter challenges you may have missed the first time around.
The Path to Re-entry
Re-entering Area Zero is straightforward. Simply travel to the Great Crater of Paldea and access the research stations just as you did during the main story. The elevators will be functioning, allowing you to descend back into the depths. Remember that the recommended team level for navigating this area is around levels 52-66, so be sure your Pokémon are up to the challenge!
New Encounters and Legendary Battles: What Awaits You?
Returning to Area Zero isn’t just about revisiting old haunts; it’s about discovering new opportunities. The most exciting of these is the chance to catch a second Koraidon or Miraidon, depending on your version.
Catching Your Second Legendary
After completing the game, you’ll encounter a second, wild Koraidon (in Scarlet) or Miraidon (in Violet) at the bottom of Area Zero. This legendary encounter functions like any other Pokémon battle, allowing you to weaken and capture it. This second legendary can then be used on your team, traded, or stored in your PC boxes. To find this legendary, travel to the bottom of the Area, and circle around Lab Zero until you find a diagonally-placed platform.
Rare Pokémon Encounters
Beyond the legendary encounter, Area Zero is home to unique and rare Pokémon. While the specific encounters can be somewhat random, Serebii and other sources list potential spawns like Hypno, Dachsbun, Salandit, Salazzle, Varoom, and Deino (Scarlet only). These unique creatures make revisiting Area Zero worthwhile for completing your Pokédex and adding powerful members to your team.
Mastering Area Zero: Tips for Exploration
Area Zero is a challenging environment, and being prepared is key to a successful return trip.
Team Composition and Strategy
Given the recommended level range of 52-66, ensure your team is appropriately leveled and has diverse type coverage. Consider bringing Pokémon with moves that can inflict status conditions like paralysis or sleep, as these can significantly increase your chances of catching rare and powerful Pokémon.
Utilizing Research Stations
The research stations scattered throughout Area Zero serve as excellent checkpoints and healing locations. Utilize them strategically to replenish your team’s health and PP, allowing for extended exploration without needing to constantly return to the surface.
Exploring Hidden Areas
Area Zero holds many secrets, including hidden caves and areas with unique resources. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore every nook and cranny. Some of these hidden areas may contain rare items or even additional Pokémon encounters. A secret room can be found from Research Station #3, take a left and continue walking forward, heading towards a large tree in the distance. Shortly before reaching the tree, pay attention to your left, as there will be some boulders to the left. You can actually walk between the boulders to find the entrance to the Secret Cave!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Returning to Area Zero
Here are some frequently asked questions about returning to Area Zero after beating Pokémon Scarlet and Violet:
Can you go to Area Zero before beating the game?
No, you cannot. Area Zero is only accessible after completing the three main story questlines: Victory Road, Path of Legends, and Starfall Street.
What happens after you catch Koraidon/Miraidon in Area Zero?
After catching the second Koraidon or Miraidon, you can use it in battles, trade it with other players, or store it in your PC boxes. Your original ride Pokémon, Koraidon/Miraidon, can now change into Battle Form for battles, but cannot be ridden or placed in PC boxes.
Can you catch another Miraidon after the initial one?
You can catch one additional Miraidon in Pokémon Violet, in Area Zero after the main story, but this will be your second and final chance to catch it.
What rare Pokemon are in Area Zero?
Some rare Pokémon encounters in Area Zero include Hypno, Dachsbun, Salandit, Salazzle, Varoom, and Deino (Scarlet only). However, encounters can vary.
Can you go back to Paldea from Kitakami?
Yes, you can. Use the map screen (Y button) and cycle between the Paldea and Kitakami maps using the L and R buttons. This allows you to easily travel back and forth between the two regions.
What happens if you don’t go to school in Pokémon Violet or Scarlet?
If you skip school, you won’t be able to participate in the Starfall Street or Victory Road questlines, and you won’t meet Arven to begin the Path of Legends quests. School is essential for progressing through the main story.
Does Area Zero count as a cave?
Only the cave parts of Area Zero count as caves. The above-ground portions are considered part of the open world.
What am I supposed to do in Area Zero during the main story?
During the main story, your goal in Area Zero is to find four research stations, break the locks on them, and enter the Zero Lab to find the professor.
Where does Arven go after you beat him?
After you defeat the Titan Pokémon with Arven, he will escort you inside its lair to find the Herba Mystica.
Can you catch Scream Tail in Pokémon Violet?
No, Scream Tail (Paradox Jigglypuff) can only be caught in Pokémon Scarlet. It is a version-exclusive Pokémon.
Can you catch the main legendary in Area Zero before completing the game?
You can battle and use your own Koraidon/Miraidon. You will battle a second wild Koraidon/Miraidon to weaken it, then your own will regain its strength to catch it.
Is the Teal Mask DLC worth it?
The Teal Mask DLC is generally considered to be decent, but it may not add enough new content for some players. It is often criticized for performance issues.
How old is Kieran in the Teal Mask DLC?
Based on his appearance, clothing, and role, Kieran appears to be at least 13 years old.
Is Kitakami in the Sinnoh region?
Kitakami is likely located somewhere between the Johto and Sinnoh regions, possibly in Japan’s real-world region of Tohoku, based on the Pokémon that appear there.
Should I use a Master Ball on the second Miraidon/Koraidon in Area Zero?
While a Master Ball guarantees capture, it’s not strictly necessary. You can weaken the legendary and use other Poké Balls along with status conditions and strategic sandwiches to increase your catch rate. However, using a Master Ball is a surefire way to avoid any potential frustration.
Final Thoughts: Area Zero – A Land of Endless Discovery
Returning to Area Zero after beating Pokémon Scarlet and Violet is an experience that enhances the depth and replayability of these games. From capturing a second legendary Pokémon to encountering rare creatures and uncovering hidden secrets, Area Zero offers a wealth of opportunities for players seeking to expand their Pokémon adventure. As you explore, remember that games can offer learning experiences, and organizations like the Games Learning Society, or GamesLearningSociety.org, study how games influence our understanding of the world. So, embrace the challenge, prepare your team, and delve back into the mysteries of Area Zero!