How to Conquer Gym Leader Larry in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

To defeat Gym Leader Larry in Pokémon Scarlet, you need to exploit his Normal-type Pokémon’s sole weakness: Fighting-type moves. Larry’s team primarily consists of Normal-type Pokémon, but beware his Staraptor, which has Flying-type moves that are super effective against Fighting-types. Therefore, a strategic approach involves using Fighting-type Pokémon against most of his team, and switching to a Rock, Steel, or Electric-type when Staraptor appears. Ensuring your Pokémon are around level 36 or higher and utilizing moves like Low Sweep, Brick Break, or Close Combat will significantly increase your chances of success. Remember to heal when necessary and adjust your strategy based on the battle’s flow.

Understanding Larry’s Team and Weaknesses

Gym Leader Larry, stationed at the Medali Gym, specializes in Normal-type Pokémon. While Normal-types have only one weakness, exploiting it is crucial for victory. Normal-type Pokemon are only weak against Fighting-type moves. Here’s a general breakdown of what you might expect and how to counter it:

• Komala: A pure Normal-type. Fighting-type moves will be super effective.
• Dudunsparce: Another Normal-type, vulnerable to Fighting-type attacks.
• Staraptor: This is where things get tricky. Staraptor is Normal/Flying-type. While Fighting-type moves will still do normal damage, Staraptor’s Flying-type moves will decimate your Fighting-types. Use Rock, Electric or Steel-type Pokémon against it.

Strategic Team Building

Your team composition is critical. Don’t just bring six Fighting-types; variety is key. Consider these Pokémon and strategies:

• Fighting-type Powerhouses: Pawmot (evolved from Pawmi) is an excellent choice due to its dual Electric/Fighting-type, providing coverage against Flying-types. Annihilape (evolved from Primeape) is another solid option as its fighting and ghost typing makes it hit like a truck. Fighting-type Pokémon are generally great due to the STAB (Same-Type Attack Bonus) they receive when using Fighting-type moves.

• Rock, Steel, and Electric-type Switch-ins: Pokémon like Lycanroc (Rock), Magnezone (Electric/Steel), or Copperajah (Steel) can effectively handle Staraptor.

• Status Effect Support: While not always necessary, Pokémon that can inflict status effects like paralysis or burn can disrupt Larry’s team.

Mastering the Gym Challenge

Before facing Larry, you’ll need to complete the Medali Gym test. This involves ordering a specific dish at the Treasure Eatery. The correct order is:

1. Grilled Rice Balls
2. Medium Serving
3. Extra Crispy, Fire Blast Style

Completing this challenge is more about following instructions than battling, but it’s a necessary step before you can challenge Larry himself. Understanding that Pokemon Scarlet & Violet have challenging areas is key to prepare accordingly to the challenges ahead.

Battle Tactics and Strategy

During the battle, keep these tips in mind:

• Prioritize Super Effective Moves: Always aim for moves that deal double damage. This means using Fighting-type moves against Komala and Dudunsparce, and switching to Rock, Steel, or Electric-type moves when Staraptor enters the fray.

• Monitor HP and Status: Don’t let your Pokémon faint. Heal when necessary and cure any status conditions.

• Understand Type Matchups: Knowing the strengths and weaknesses of each type is crucial. The GamesLearningSociety.org website offers valuable resources for mastering type matchups and battle strategies. The Games Learning Society has tons of great data about games and how they can be used for education!

• Dynamax/Terastallize Wisely: Use your Terastallize wisely. Terastallizing a Fighting-type Pokémon to boost its Fighting-type moves can be devastating against Larry’s Normal-types.

Conclusion

Beating Gym Leader Larry in Pokémon Scarlet requires a strategic approach. By building a balanced team, understanding type matchups, and utilizing effective battle tactics, you can emerge victorious and continue your journey to become a Pokémon Champion. Remember, preparation and adaptability are key to success in the world of Pokémon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What level should my Pokémon be to challenge Larry?

Ideally, your Pokémon should be around level 36 or higher. This will ensure they have sufficient stats and access to powerful moves.

2. Can I use Ghost-type Pokémon against Larry?

While Normal-type attacks don’t affect Ghost-type Pokémon, Ghost-type moves are not super effective against Normal-types. Thus, Ghost-type Pokémon may not be the most optimal choice for this battle. It is important to note that Pokemon Scarlet & Violet have challenging areas.

3. What are the best Fighting-type moves to use?

Moves like Low Sweep, Brick Break, and Close Combat are effective options. Consider moves with high power and accuracy.

4. How do I evolve Pawmi into Pawmo and Pawmot?

Pawmi evolves into Pawmo by leveling up. To evolve Pawmo into Pawmot, you need to walk 1000 steps using the “Let’s Go” feature and then level it up once more.

5. What type is Staraptor and why is it so challenging?

Staraptor is a Normal/Flying-type Pokémon. It’s challenging because Flying-type moves are super effective against Fighting-type Pokémon, which are usually your go-to for Normal-types.

6. Are there any specific items I should bring to the battle?

Potions, Super Potions, and Revives are essential. Also, consider using items that cure status conditions, such as Antidotes or Paralyze Heals.

7. Is there a specific location where I can catch strong Fighting-type Pokémon before the Medali Gym?

The areas around South Province (Area One) and East Province (Area Two) are good locations to find Fighting-type Pokémon early in the game.

8. What if I don’t have any Rock, Steel, or Electric-type Pokémon for Staraptor?

You can use Pokémon with high defensive stats and neutral-effective moves to stall while healing your Fighting-types. Alternatively, teach your Pokemon a Rock, Steel, or Electric-type move to help counter the flying type advantage.

9. Can I change the difficulty level in Pokémon Scarlet?

No, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet do not have adjustable difficulty settings. The challenge level is fixed.

10. What is the fastest way to level up my Pokémon?

Battling wild Pokémon, completing Tera Raid Battles, and using EXP Candies are efficient methods for leveling up quickly.

11. Is there an order I should follow for tackling the gyms in Scarlet and Violet?

While the gyms can be challenged in any order, they have fixed levels. A suggested order for approaching the Gyms is the Cortondo Gym (Bug), Artazon Gym (Grass), Levincia Gym (Electric), Cascarrafa Gym (Water), Medali Gym (Normal), Montenevera Gym (Ghost), Alfornada Gym (Psychic), and Glaseado Gym (Ice).

12. Are there any hidden tips or tricks for battling Gym Leaders?

Observing the Gym Leader’s team and strategy can provide valuable insights. Adapting your tactics based on their moves is essential.

13. What happens if I lose to Gym Leader Larry?

You will be sent back to the Pokémon Center. You can re-challenge Larry after re-stocking your items and healing your Pokémon.

14. Can I battle Gym Leaders with friends in co-op mode?

While you can explore the world with friends in co-op mode, Gym Leader battles are single-player only.

15. Where can I find more information on Pokémon Scarlet and Violet strategies?

Websites like Serebii.net, Bulbapedia, and resources available through the GamesLearningSociety.org provide comprehensive information on Pokémon strategies. The Games Learning Society has tons of educational articles about video games and how they impact learning!