Can You Conquer the Pokédex Without the DLC? A Deep Dive
The burning question on every Pokémon completionist’s mind: can you truly “catch ’em all” without shelling out for the Downloadable Content? The answer, as with most things in the world of Pokémon, is a nuanced YES, but with a significant asterisk attached. You can complete the base Regional Pokédex (the Pokédex that tracks Pokémon native to the core game’s region) without any DLC. However, completing the National Pokédex (tracking every Pokémon species) without DLC is generally not possible due to version exclusives and availability of certain Legendary Pokémon. Let’s delve into the specifics.
Decoding the Pokédex Completion Challenge
The inherent design of Pokémon games, from the very beginning, has incentivized trading and collaboration. Two versions of the same game, each with slightly different Pokémon available, force players to interact, trade, and battle to fill out their Pokédex. DLC complicates, or rather, expands this equation.
Regional vs. National Pokédex: Know the Difference
It’s crucial to understand the distinction between the Regional Pokédex and the National Pokédex.
- Regional Pokédex: This is the Pokédex that focuses specifically on the Pokémon native to the main game’s region. For example, in Pokémon Sword and Shield, this would be the Galar Pokédex. Completing this is generally achievable in the base game.
- National Pokédex: This is the granddaddy of them all, cataloging every single Pokémon ever discovered. Access to the National Pokédex often requires specific in-game achievements and might not be directly accessible in all games. Completing the National Pokédex nearly always requires trading or transferring from other games.
Version Exclusives: The Classic Hurdle
Pokémon games have always had version-exclusive Pokémon. This is a deliberate design choice to encourage player interaction. If you have Pokémon Sword, you’ll need to trade with someone who has Pokémon Shield to obtain those version-exclusive Pokémon. While online trading makes this easier than ever, it still requires effort and cooperation.
DLC Pokémon: A New Dimension of Challenge
DLC introduces new areas, storylines, and, crucially, new Pokémon. These Pokémon are often integral to completing the National Pokédex. Without the DLC, you simply won’t have access to them in that particular game.
The Mythical Pokémon Conundrum
Mythical Pokémon (like Mew, Celebi, Jirachi, Manaphy, etc.) are typically distributed through special events and promotions. Obtaining them often requires participating in these events, which may be time-limited or require transferring Pokémon from older games. DLC usually doesn’t affect the availability of mythical Pokémon, which often require transferring from other games or completing special events. However, it is important to check the official sources for each game.
Strategies for Maximizing Your Pokédex Completion in the Base Game
Even without DLC, you can significantly progress in your Pokédex completion journey. Here are some strategies:
- Trade, Trade, Trade: Online trading platforms (like the Pokémon HOME app and in-game trading systems) are your best friends. Connect with other players to exchange version exclusives and other hard-to-find Pokémon.
- Utilize Pokémon HOME: This cloud-based service allows you to store and transfer Pokémon between compatible games. It’s essential for moving Pokémon from older titles to newer ones.
- Breed Strategically: Breeding can help you obtain Pokémon with specific natures and abilities, but it’s also crucial for filling out your Pokédex with baby Pokémon (like Pichu or Togepi).
- Explore Every Nook and Cranny: Thoroughly explore every area in the game, as some Pokémon are only found in specific locations or under certain conditions (e.g., during rain or at night).
- Participate in Online Communities: Join online forums and communities dedicated to Pokémon. These communities can provide valuable information, trading partners, and support.
- Take advantage of Wonder Trade: Wonder Trade offers the chance to trade any of your Pokémon in exchange for a random one from another player around the world.
- Complete Max Raid Battles: Max Raid Battles often feature Pokémon that are rare in the wild, as well as Pokémon that were previously version exclusives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Pokédex completion and DLC:
1. Does buying the DLC automatically complete my Pokédex?
No. DLC adds new Pokémon to the game, but you still need to catch or obtain them through trading or other means.
2. If I trade for a DLC Pokémon without owning the DLC, can I still use it?
Yes, you can receive and use Pokémon introduced in the DLC even if you don’t own the DLC yourself. However, you won’t be able to access the areas where those Pokémon naturally spawn.
3. Are there any Pokémon that are impossible to obtain without DLC?
Generally, yes. Pokémon exclusive to the DLC areas and not available through other means are impossible to obtain without the DLC.
4. Can I transfer Pokémon from Pokémon GO to help complete my Pokédex?
This depends on the specific Pokémon game. Some games, like Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee, allow for direct transfer from Pokémon GO. Others require using Pokémon HOME as an intermediary.
5. Does Pokémon HOME help with completing the National Pokédex?
Yes, Pokémon HOME is essential for transferring Pokémon from different games and generations, which is crucial for completing the National Pokédex.
6. What’s the easiest way to find trading partners?
Online forums, Discord servers, and the in-game trading systems are excellent resources for finding trading partners. Be clear about what you need and what you can offer.
7. Is it worth buying the DLC just to complete the Pokédex?
That depends on your personal goals and budget. If you’re a dedicated completionist, the DLC is likely worth the investment.
8. Do Shiny Pokémon count towards Pokédex completion?
No, Shiny Pokémon are variations of existing Pokémon. They don’t have separate Pokédex entries.
9. Can I use glitches or exploits to obtain Pokémon that are otherwise unavailable?
While glitches and exploits might exist, using them can potentially corrupt your save data or violate the game’s terms of service. It’s generally not recommended.
10. How does the concept of “soft resetting” apply to Pokémon?
“Soft resetting” involves restarting your game to reroll the stats or nature of a Pokémon. This is often used when encountering Legendary Pokémon or attempting to breed Pokémon with specific characteristics.
11. What are “version exclusive” items besides Pokémon?
Some games may have version-exclusive items, such as evolution items or berries, that can only be obtained in one version of the game.
12. What are the benefits of completing the Pokédex?
Completing the Pokédex often unlocks in-game rewards, such as a special item or a certificate of completion. More importantly, it’s a significant achievement that showcases your dedication to the game.
13. Are there any differences in the encounter rates of Pokémon between the base game and the DLC areas?
Yes, the encounter rates of Pokémon can vary significantly between the base game and the DLC areas. Some Pokémon may be much rarer or more common in the DLC.
14. How does the Games Learning Society relate to Pokémon and Pokédex completion?
The Games Learning Society explores the educational potential of games, including Pokémon. Completing the Pokédex requires strategic thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and a deep understanding of game mechanics, all of which align with the Games Learning Society’s mission. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.
15. What role does community play in finishing the Pokedex?
Community collaboration and sharing of knowledge are crucial. Online forums, guides, and shared experiences help players navigate complex tasks, understand obscure mechanics, and ultimately achieve their goal of completing the Pokedex.
Conclusion
While conquering the Regional Pokédex in the base game is definitely achievable through dedicated play, trading, and a bit of luck, tackling the National Pokédex without DLC presents a far more daunting challenge. Consider your goals and resources before embarking on this epic quest. Whether you choose to embrace the DLC or stick to the core game, remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Happy catching!