Taming the Dragon: Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Charizard in Pokémon Scarlet (2023)

So, you’re itching to add the fiery majesty of Charizard to your Pokémon Scarlet team? Well, you’ve come to the right place! While Charizard isn’t natively found roaming the Paldean wilds, acquiring this iconic Pokémon is absolutely achievable. The primary method in 2023 revolves around participating in special Tera Raid Events. These events are limited-time opportunities to battle and catch unique Pokémon with specific Tera Types. Let’s dive into the specifics!

Conquering the Tera Raid: Your Path to Charizard

Charizard appeared in 7-Star Tera Raid events featuring a Dark Tera Type. These raids are notoriously challenging, requiring careful team composition and strategic battling. While the initial event took place in December 2022, keep an eye out for re-runs of this raid or future similar events that might feature Charizard! Pokémon event distribution is always subject to change, and they can appear at a moment’s notice.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to prepare and participate:

1. Complete the Main Story: You must finish the main storyline of Pokémon Scarlet (Victory Road, Path of Legends, and Starfall Street) and “The Way Home” to unlock access to 5-Star and higher Tera Raids.

2. Unlock 6-Star Raids: After completing the story, you’ll need to participate in and complete a certain number of 5-Star Tera Raids. This unlocks the more difficult and rewarding 6-Star Raids. Completing these raids can be daunting. Consider going online with friends to complete these raids, or visit the Games Learning Society to check the latest updates on raids.

3. Check for Event Raids: Stay updated on official Pokémon announcements (via the Pokémon Company’s website, social media, or in-game news) regarding Tera Raid events. These announcements will detail the specific Pokémon featured, the event dates, and the Tera Type.

4. Prepare Your Team: 7-Star Raids are incredibly tough! Research Charizard’s weaknesses (Rock, Electric, Water) and build a team of level 100 Pokémon with optimized movesets and held items. Consider using Pokémon with abilities that support your team or hinder the raid boss.

5. Connect Online: Make sure your Nintendo Switch is connected to the internet to access the latest event data.

6. Locate the Tera Raid Crystal: Look for the black Tera Raid crystal on your map. It’ll be marked with the symbol of the featured Pokémon (in this case, a Charizard silhouette).

7. Team Up (Optional): While soloing is possible, teaming up with other players online significantly increases your chances of success. Coordinate strategies and Pokémon types beforehand.

8. Battle and Catch: Engage in the raid battle, strategize with your team, and defeat the Charizard. Once defeated, you’ll have the opportunity to catch it!

9. Breeding: Once captured, you can go to one of the in game breeding locations. Place your Charizard in one of the locations, and eventually the Charizard will be able to reproduce.

Beyond Raids: Alternative Avenues (and Considerations)

While Tera Raid events are the primary method, here are some other possibilities (though less direct) to consider:

• Trading: Trading with other players who participated in the Charizard raid is an option. However, be wary of scams and ensure you’re trading fairly.
• Pokémon HOME: If you’ve previously caught a Charizard in another Pokémon game compatible with Pokémon HOME, you might be able to transfer it to Scarlet.
• Future Events: Keep an eye out for future events that may directly award Charizard or offer opportunities to obtain it through other means.
• Pokémon TCG Live: As the article mentions, the Pokémon Trading Card Game Live may offer Charizard rewards in its Battle Pass, which could indirectly influence your in-game Pokémon collection, although this does not directly add Charizard to your Scarlet save file.

A Note on Shiny Charizard

During the initial 7-Star Tera Raid event, Charizard was Shiny Locked, meaning it couldn’t be encountered in its Shiny form. Whether this restriction will be lifted in future re-runs remains to be seen.

FAQs: Mastering the Charizard Hunt

1. Can I still get Charizard in Pokémon Scarlet right now?

Potentially! The key is to stay vigilant for re-runs of the Charizard Tera Raid event or announcements of new events that might offer Charizard. Keep checking official Pokémon news sources.

2. What level should my Pokémon be for the 7-Star Charizard raid?

Aim for Level 100. Maximizing their stats is critical for surviving and contributing effectively in these challenging raids.

3. What are Charizard’s weaknesses in the Dark Tera Raid?

Despite being a Dark Tera Type, Charizard’s inherent weaknesses to Rock, Electric, and Water still apply. Exploit these weaknesses with appropriate Pokémon and moves.

4. Do I need Nintendo Switch Online to participate in Tera Raids?

Yes, a Nintendo Switch Online subscription is required to participate in online Tera Raids with other players. You can still attempt the raid solo without a subscription.

5. What’s the best Pokémon to use against the Dark Tera Charizard?

The “best” Pokémon depends on your team composition and strategy. Pokémon with high Special Attack, strong Electric-type moves (like Miraidon), or Rock-type moves (like Tyranitar) are generally effective.

6. How do I unlock 6-Star Tera Raids in Scarlet and Violet?

Complete the main story, participate in and complete a number of 5-Star Tera Raids, and then a special event will trigger that unlocks 6-Star Raids.

7. Is Charizard Scarlet exclusive?

No, Charizard isn’t strictly Scarlet exclusive. It was available through the 7-Star Tera Raid event in both Scarlet and Violet.

8. Can I breed Charizard in Scarlet and Violet?

Yes, once you’ve caught a Charizard, you can breed it at a picnic with a compatible Pokémon (typically Ditto) to obtain Charmander eggs. Remember, the baby will always be the same type as the egg laying Pokemon.

9. Is there a code to get Charizard in Scarlet and Violet?

There was a code (DARKTERA0006) for a specific Charizard during a past event. However, this code is likely expired. Keep an eye out for new codes released during future events.

10. Can Charizard be shiny in the Tera Raids?

During the initial 7-Star Tera Raid event, Charizard was Shiny Locked. Whether this will remain true for future re-runs is uncertain.

11. What happens if I fail the Charizard raid?

You can attempt the raid multiple times during the event period. If you’re raiding with others, consider adjusting your strategy or Pokémon team.

12. How often do Tera Raid events happen?

Tera Raid events are held regularly, often coinciding with game updates or special occasions. Keep an eye on official Pokémon news.

13. What are the best held items for my Pokémon in Tera Raids?

Items that boost stats, like the Choice Specs, Life Orb, or Shell Bell, can significantly improve your Pokémon’s performance.

14. Where can I find reliable information about upcoming Tera Raid events?

Refer to official Pokémon news sources, such as the Pokémon Company’s website, social media channels (Twitter, Facebook), and in-game news updates. Communities like GamesLearningSociety.org are also useful resources.

15. Are there any other ways to get Charizard besides Tera Raids and trading?

Potentially through future in-game events or promotional distributions, but Tera Raids are currently the most reliable method.

Conclusion: Patience and Preparation are Key

While obtaining Charizard in Pokémon Scarlet in 2023 requires patience and preparation, the reward is well worth the effort. Stay informed about upcoming events, build a strong team, and get ready to conquer those Tera Raids! With dedication and a bit of luck, you’ll soon be soaring through the Paldean skies with your very own Charizard. Good luck, Trainers!