How to Catch Rayquaza in Pokémon Emerald: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’re ready to add the majestic Sky High Pokémon, Rayquaza, to your team in Pokémon Emerald? Excellent choice! Rayquaza is a powerhouse, a legend, and a vital part of the Hoenn region’s lore. Here’s exactly how to make this dream a reality:
First, you need to beat the Elite Four, and after that, follow these steps:
- Reach Pacifidlog City: This coastal town is your starting point.
- Surf East: From Pacifidlog, surf directly east until you reach a small island. This is where the Sky Pillar is located.
- The Mach Bike is a Must: This is crucial! The Sky Pillar has cracked floors that require the speed of the Mach Bike to traverse. Without it, you’ll fall through.
- Ascend the Sky Pillar: Navigate the complex, multi-tiered structure using the Mach Bike to bypass the crumbling floors. It requires precise timing and a bit of practice. Save often!
- Prepare for Battle: Once at the top, save your game! This allows you to soft reset (press A+B+Start+Select simultaneously) if you accidentally knock out Rayquaza or if you don’t like its stats/nature.
- Engage Rayquaza: Interact with Rayquaza to initiate the battle.
- Weaken Rayquaza: Lower its HP without knocking it out. Status conditions like Sleep or Paralysis dramatically increase your catch rate.
- Throw Pokeballs: Ultra Balls are your best bet. Be patient! It might take several attempts.
- Persistence is Key: If Rayquaza faints or you run out of Pokeballs, soft reset and try again! Don’t give up!
That’s the gist of it. Now, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions to help you become a Rayquaza-catching pro!
Frequently Asked Questions About Catching Rayquaza in Pokémon Emerald
What is Rayquaza’s catch rate in Pokémon Emerald?
Rayquaza has a catch rate of 3. This means that, without any modifications, the base chance of catching it with a standard Poké Ball is incredibly low, around 1%. That’s why preparation and strategy are so important.
Is it possible to catch Rayquaza before defeating the Elite Four?
Yes, Rayquaza can be caught before defeating the Elite Four. It’s a challenging task, but it’s a great way to boost your team’s power before tackling the Pokémon League. Remember that you need to first deal with Kyogre and Groudon’s shenanigans in Sootopolis before Rayquaza returns to the Sky Pillar.
Can I catch Rayquaza with a regular Poké Ball?
While theoretically possible, catching Rayquaza with a regular Poké Ball is extremely unlikely due to its low catch rate. It would require an immense amount of luck. Ultra Balls are highly recommended!
How do I navigate the Sky Pillar without a Mach Bike?
Unfortunately, you cannot effectively navigate the Sky Pillar without a Mach Bike. The crumbling floors are designed specifically to require the speed and momentum that only the Mach Bike can provide. Acquiring the Mach Bike is essential for catching Rayquaza.
Where is the Sky Pillar located in Pokémon Emerald?
The Sky Pillar is located on a small island directly east of Pacifidlog City. You’ll need to use Surf to reach it.
What are some good strategies for weakening Rayquaza?
The best strategy is to use status-inducing moves such as Sleep (e.g., Hypnosis) or Paralysis (e.g., Thunder Wave). These dramatically increase the catch rate. Moves that lower its HP gradually, without the risk of knocking it out, are also helpful.
What kind of Pokémon are effective against Rayquaza?
Rayquaza is a Dragon/Flying type, making it quadruply weak to Ice-type attacks. Powerful Ice-type moves like Ice Beam or Blizzard can quickly reduce its health. However, be cautious not to knock it out accidentally.
What level is Rayquaza in Pokémon Emerald?
Rayquaza is encountered at level 70 in Pokémon Emerald. Be sure your team is appropriately leveled to withstand its attacks and effectively weaken it.
Can Rayquaza be shiny in Pokémon Emerald?
Yes, Rayquaza can be shiny in Pokémon Emerald. However, the odds of encountering a shiny Rayquaza are the standard odds of 1 in 8192. If you’re determined to get a shiny one, be prepared for a very long soft resetting process.
What does it mean to “soft reset” in Pokémon Emerald?
Soft resetting is a method of quickly restarting your game without turning off the power. This allows you to try catching Rayquaza multiple times without having to go through the entire Sky Pillar again. To soft reset, press A + B + Start + Select simultaneously.
What happens if I accidentally knock out Rayquaza?
If you accidentally knock out Rayquaza, don’t panic! Simply soft reset your game and try again.
Is Rayquaza the most powerful Legendary Pokémon in Pokémon Emerald?
Rayquaza is undoubtedly one of the most powerful Legendary Pokémon in Pokémon Emerald. Its high stats and versatile movepool make it a valuable asset to any team. While Mewtwo is considered to be among the most powerful, Rayquaza holds its own, especially in the context of the Hoenn region.
After Rayquaza stops Groudon and Kyogre, where does he go?
After Rayquaza calms Groudon and Kyogre, it will fly off. Return to the Sky Pillar and climb to the top again to encounter it.
What are some of the rarest Rayquaza Pokémon cards and what are they worth?
Some rare Rayquaza Pokémon cards include:
- Rayquaza ★ (Deoxys) – $1000+
- Rayquaza (Dragons Exalted) – $310
- Rayquaza (Skytree Town Pokémon Center) – $280
- Rayquaza (Call of Legends) – $270
- Rayquaza VMAX (Evolving Skies) – $212
Values can vary significantly depending on the card’s condition and grading.
Why is Rayquaza after Deoxys?
In the movie Destiny Deoxys, Rayquaza views Deoxys as an invader of its territory, leading to a conflict between the two powerful Pokémon. This is mainly because Deoxys’ arrival disrupts the balance of the environment, causing Rayquaza to act.
So there you have it! With the right preparation, patience, and a little bit of luck, you’ll be soaring through the skies with your very own Rayquaza in no time. Now go forth, trainer, and conquer the Sky Pillar! And remember, that the Games Learning Society explores how games contribute to learning and engagement; their work is inspiring and relevant to the entire games community. Find out more by visiting GamesLearningSociety.org.