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Unlocking the World: Exploring the National Dex in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2

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Yes, Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 do have a National Pokédex. After defeating the Pokémon League, your Pokédex will be upgraded to include all Pokémon from generations I through V, numbering them from 1 (Bulbasaur) to 649 (Genesect). This upgrade is a crucial step for completionists and allows players to discover Pokémon from various regions. The National Dex is essential for anyone aiming to truly “catch ’em all” within these games!

Delving Deeper: The National Dex and Post-Game Content

The journey doesn’t end when you defeat the Elite Four and become the Champion in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2. Unlocking the National Pokédex opens up a whole new world of possibilities and challenges. This expansion of your Pokédex isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade; it dramatically changes how you approach the game and incentivizes exploration and trading.

Obtaining the National Dex: A Post-League Ritual

Unlike some previous Pokémon games where the National Dex was unlocked earlier, in Black 2 and White 2, you must first conquer the Pokémon League. After becoming Champion, you will be prompted to restart the game. After the intro sequence, and upon exiting your house in Nuvema Town, Professor Juniper will appear and grant you the National Dex upgrade. This upgrade allows your Pokédex to register any Pokémon you encounter, regardless of whether it’s native to the Unova region.

Why the National Dex Matters: Completion and Beyond

The National Dex is more than just a list; it’s a gateway. It allows you to truly complete the game by cataloging all 649 Pokémon. Furthermore, it’s a prerequisite for several post-game events and rewards. Completing your Pokédex, or even getting close to it, unlocks special in-game events and items that can significantly enhance your gameplay. Unlike previous games, in Black 2 and White 2, completing the Pokédex unlocks substantial items that impact the game. These items provide strategic benefits to the players, adding a unique element to the game.

The Unova Dex vs. The National Dex

It’s crucial to distinguish between the Unova Dex and the National Dex. The Unova Dex only includes Pokémon that are found within the Unova region. In Black 2 and White 2, the Unova Dex can hold up to 301 different Pokémon. However, once you unlock the National Dex, your Pokédex expands to include all available Pokémon up to Generation V. This means you’ll need to trade, transfer, and explore extensively to fill it completely.

Filling the National Dex: Challenges and Strategies

Completing the National Dex in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 is a significant undertaking. It requires a combination of strategic gameplay, trading, and potentially, utilizing older Pokémon games to transfer Pokémon to your Black 2 or White 2 save file.

Trading: Trading is essential, especially for version-exclusive Pokémon. Connect with friends or online communities to exchange Pokémon and fill in the gaps in your Pokédex.
Transfers from Previous Generations: If you have access to older Pokémon games (specifically Generation IV), you can use the Poke Transfer system in Black 2 and White 2 to bring Pokémon from those games into your current save file. This is crucial for obtaining Pokémon that are otherwise unavailable in the Unova region.
Exploration: Thoroughly explore every area in the game. Some Pokémon are rare and only appear in specific locations or under certain conditions.

National Dex FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the National Dex in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2, to help you navigate this important aspect of the game.

How do I unlock the National Dex in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2? Defeat the Pokémon League. Afterwards, when you exit your house in Nuvema Town, Professor Juniper will upgrade your Pokédex to the National Dex.
What is the total number of Pokémon in the Black 2 and White 2 National Dex? The National Dex lists 649 Pokémon, from Bulbasaur (#001) to Genesect (#649).
Is it possible to complete the National Dex in Black 2 and White 2 without trading? No, it is not possible to complete the National Dex without trading. Version-exclusive Pokémon and certain evolution methods require trading with another player.
Can you transfer Pokémon from older games to Black 2 and White 2? Yes. You can transfer Pokémon from Generation IV (Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, and SoulSilver) to Black 2 and White 2 using the Poke Transfer system.
What is the Unova Dex? The Unova Dex is the regional Pokédex that only includes Pokémon found natively in the Unova region. It contains 301 Pokemon.
Does completing the National Dex unlock anything special in Black 2 and White 2? Yes! Completing the National Dex will unlock a special reward from Professor Juniper.
Are any Pokémon in Black 2 and White 2 shiny locked? Yes. Both Reshiram and Zekrom are shiny locked, meaning they cannot be encountered as shiny Pokémon.
How many Pokémon are exclusive to each version (Black 2 vs. White 2)? Each version has its own set of exclusive Pokémon, though the exact number can vary depending on how you define “exclusive.” It is best to consult a comprehensive online resource or Pokémon community to get an exact list.
Where can I find Zekrom and Reshiram in Black 2 and White 2? Zekrom is found in Black 2, and Reshiram is found in White 2. You encounter them at N’s Castle after defeating the Pokémon League.
What Pokémon is #434 in the National Dex? Stunky is Pokémon number 434 in the National Dex.
Does Pokémon Black 2 have Pikachu? Unfortunately, you cannot catch Pikachu or Pichu in Pokemon Black 2 or White 2. The only official way to get them is by trading or transferring them via Gen IV or older games.
What is the Pokémon with the number 649 in the National Dex? The Pokémon with the number 649 in the National Dex is Genesect.
Can you fuse Kyurem with Zekrom or Reshiram in Black 2 and White 2? Yes, you can fuse Kyurem with either Zekrom or Reshiram after catching Kyurem in the Giant Chasm. You need a special item called the DNA Splicers to perform the fusion.
Is there a way to get Victini in Black 2 and White 2? Yes, in Black 2 and White 2, if you travel to Liberty Garden, you can encounter and capture Victini, even if you missed the initial event.
Is it better to get Pokémon Black 2 or White 2? The choice depends on personal preference. Each version has exclusive Pokémon and slightly different content. Consider which Pokémon you prefer and consult a version comparison guide to make an informed decision. Some players prefer Black 2 due to the inclusion of Zekrom. Ultimately, both games offer a similar and enjoyable Pokémon experience.

Conclusion: Mastering the National Dex in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2

The National Dex in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 is a central feature for players looking to extend their gameplay beyond the main storyline. By understanding how to unlock, complete, and utilize the National Dex, you can enhance your Pokémon journey and unlock the full potential of these games. So, grab your Poké Balls, start trading, and embark on the quest to catch ’em all! You might even learn more about how games can be used for education by visiting the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org!