Can You Get Zekrom in Pokémon Black? Unlocking the Dragon of Ideals
The short, sharp answer is: no, you cannot directly catch Zekrom in Pokémon Black. Zekrom is the version exclusive legendary Pokémon for Pokémon White. In Pokémon Black, you encounter and have the opportunity to catch Reshiram, the legendary Pokémon representing Truth. To obtain Zekrom in Pokémon Black, you need to trade with another player who owns Pokémon White or Pokémon Black 2 where Zekrom is obtainable. Let’s dive deeper into the specifics and other frequently asked questions.
Understanding Version Exclusives
Pokémon games often feature version exclusives, a brilliant strategy by Game Freak to encourage interaction and trading between players. This design choice drives community engagement and ensures that players can’t obtain every Pokémon in a single version of the game. Reshiram and Zekrom are prime examples of this design philosophy, embodying opposing yet intertwined ideals.
Trading: Your Key to Acquiring Zekrom
The primary way to get Zekrom in Pokémon Black is through trading. You’ll need to find a friend or use online trading features to acquire one. This involves connecting your Nintendo DS or 3DS to another console and exchanging a Pokémon for Zekrom. The Global Trade System (GTS), though now defunct for older DS games, facilitated this process, allowing players worldwide to trade Pokémon. Fan-run trading servers still exist.
Pokémon Black 2: A Twist in the Tale
While you can’t catch Zekrom in Pokémon Black, Pokémon Black 2 offers a slight change to the formula. After beating the Elite Four, you can obtain the DNA Splicers and fuse Kyurem with Zekrom to obtain Black Kyurem, a powerful Ice/Dragon-type Pokémon. This allows you to utilize Zekrom’s power in Pokémon Black 2 in a unique way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get Reshiram and Zekrom in Black?
No, you can only obtain Reshiram in Pokémon Black through the main storyline. Zekrom is exclusive to Pokémon White and must be traded over.
Can I get both Zekrom and Reshiram in the same game?
Only through trading! Without trading, you can only obtain Reshiram in Pokémon Black and Zekrom in Pokémon White.
Can you catch Zekrom in Pokémon Black 2 before the Elite Four?
No, you must defeat the Elite Four and the Champion in Pokémon Black 2 before you can catch Zekrom (or Reshiram, depending on your version). After that, you’ll receive the Dark Stone from N, which allows you to encounter Zekrom.
What other legendary Pokémon can you catch in Black?
In Pokémon Black, you can catch: Victini, Cobalion, Terrakion, Virizion, Tornadus, Landorus, Kyurem, and Reshiram.
Why is Zekrom in White and Reshiram in Black?
The version exclusivity is primarily for color contrast and thematic reasons. Zekrom, representing Ideals, is paired with Pokémon White, while Reshiram, symbolizing Truth, is linked to Pokémon Black. This echoes the balance and contrast central to the game’s narrative.
What is the best strategy to catch Reshiram in Black?
Use False Swipe to bring its health down to 1 without knocking it out, and then use Ultra Balls or Timer Balls to increase your chances of catching it. Also, status conditions like Sleep or Paralysis can help.
Is Zekrom shiny locked in Black?
Yes, Zekrom is shiny locked in Pokémon White, meaning you cannot encounter a shiny version of it during the main storyline encounter. This applies to Reshiram in Pokémon Black and Victini in both games.
Who is stronger, Reshiram or Zekrom?
Both are incredibly powerful. Zekrom excels in physical attack, while Reshiram is stronger in special attack. Their effectiveness depends on the moveset and your battling strategy.
Can I transfer Zekrom from older games to Black?
Yes, you can transfer Zekrom from older generation games (like Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, SoulSilver) to Pokémon Black using the Poke Transfer system after beating the Elite Four. This allows you to bring your Zekrom from previous adventures.
What happens if you don’t catch Reshiram in Black?
The game will force you to recapture it! Reshiram will revive with full HP, preventing you from progressing until you catch it.
Can you get Arceus in Pokémon Black?
No, you cannot directly obtain Arceus in Pokémon Black without trading or transferring from previous generations. Arceus was an event-exclusive Pokémon, and you’ll need to transfer it from Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, or SoulSilver.
What is the hardest legendary to catch in Pokémon Black?
Tornadus can be notoriously difficult due to its roaming nature. It appears in different locations throughout the Unova region after you trigger the encounter, making it challenging to track down and catch.
What is the strongest Pokémon in Pokémon Black?
Reshiram and Zekrom are among the strongest Pokémon in Pokémon Black, boasting high base stats and powerful moves. Other contenders include Kyurem, Landorus, Hydreigon, and Volcarona.
Where is Kyurem in Pokémon Black?
Kyurem can be found in the Giant Chasm, located to the northeast of Lacunosa Town. You’ll need to navigate through the cave and plains area to reach the inner cave where Kyurem awaits.
What is the best starter Pokémon in Black?
Tepig, the Fire-type starter, is often considered the best choice due to its advantageous matchups against early gyms and strong offensive capabilities. However, the “best” starter depends on your playstyle and team composition.
Understanding the intricacies of version exclusives and trading mechanics is crucial for completing your Pokédex and experiencing everything Pokémon Black has to offer. Even if you can’t directly catch Zekrom in Pokémon Black, trading allows you to add this magnificent legendary to your team. The Pokémon universe is a complex and engaging space, and the Games Learning Society provides opportunities to learn more about the educational impact of gaming through research and collaboration. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to discover more!