Unlocking the Secrets of Underground Pokémon Encounters
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
So, you’re itching to explore the depths and bolster your team with the intriguing Pokémon lurking beneath the surface? Let’s cut right to the chase: unlocking underground Pokémon in Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl hinges on a few key factors: accessing the Grand Underground itself, strategically navigating the biomes within, and understanding how your progress affects the Pokémon available. Getting to them involves first getting to the Grand Underground itself. Once you are in the underground and have progressed the game’s story, the Pokemon will appear in the Grand Underground.
The Grand Underground: Your Gateway to Adventure
The Grand Underground is accessible the moment you arrive in Eterna City. Simply head to the house next to the Pokémon Center and chat with the Underground Man. He’ll gift you the Explorer Kit, which will be essential for your journey into the depths. After a brief tutorial, you’ll be able to use the Explorer Kit anywhere outside to burrow into the Grand Underground.
Understanding Biomes and Pokémon Variety
The Grand Underground isn’t just a vast, empty space. It’s divided into various biomes, each harboring a unique selection of Pokémon. These biomes are often referred to as Hideaways and include environments like caves, volcanic areas, icy regions, and watery grottos. The type of Hideaway you’re in directly influences the Pokémon you’ll encounter. For example, you are more likely to find fire-type Pokémon in a volcanic area.
Advancing the Story and Expanding Your Encounters
The Pokémon available in the Grand Underground aren’t static; they evolve as you progress through the main storyline. Defeating gym leaders and advancing the narrative will progressively unlock new Pokémon species in these underground biomes. Keep pushing forward in your journey, and you’ll be rewarded with a wider array of Pokémon to catch beneath the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I get the Explorer Kit?
Visit the Underground Man in the house next to the Pokémon Center in Eterna City. He’ll hand you the Explorer Kit after a short conversation.
2. What does the Explorer Kit do?
The Explorer Kit allows you to access the Grand Underground from almost anywhere in the overworld. Simply use the Explorer Kit from your Key Items pocket to burrow underground.
3. Are the Pokémon in the Grand Underground the same as in the overworld?
No, the Grand Underground hosts many Pokémon that are not found in the overworld. It’s a great way to expand your Pokédex with exclusive species.
4. How does the level of my Pokémon affect catching Pokémon in the Grand Underground?
If the Pokémon you encounter in the Grand Underground are a higher level than your own Pokémon, they will be significantly more challenging to catch. Prepare with strong Pokémon and plenty of Poké Balls.
5. What are some Diamond-exclusive Pokémon in the Grand Underground?
- Elekid
- Gligar
- Murkrow
- Scyther
- Silcoon
- Stunky
- Skuntank
6. Are there Pearl-exclusive Pokémon in the Grand Underground?
Absolutely. Pokémon Pearl owners can find exclusives like:
- Magby
- Misdreavus
- Pinsir
- Pupitar
- Larvitar
- Cascoon
- Glameow
7. How do I find starter Pokémon in the Grand Underground?
Starter Pokémon like Charmander, Squirtle, Bulbasaur, Cyndaquil, Totodile, Chikorita, Treecko, Mudkip, and Torchic can be found in specific biomes within the Grand Underground. They’re rare, so search multiple zones. Certain Pokémon are locked to certain sections so if you have a city badge from that particular section you will be able to unlock them.
8. Can Pokémon be shiny in the Grand Underground?
Yes, but they won’t appear shiny in the overworld within the Grand Underground. You’ll only know if a Pokémon is shiny when you enter a battle with it. Shiny Pokémon are pre-determined as soon as you enter a room. If it is not a shiny Pokemon you can run and go to the room next door and re-enter.
9. What’s the deal with Diglett and Dugtrio in the Grand Underground?
You can’t catch Diglett or Dugtrio in the Grand Underground. However, when you see them scurrying around, they leave behind pink sparkles. Collecting these sparkles contributes to a meter. When you reach 40 sparkles, you’ll receive a temporary boost to finding rarer items while digging.
10. What happens when I collect 40 Diglett sparkles?
Once you hit 40/40, the meter turns rainbow, you hear a whistle, and you get a message that something good is about to happen. This activates a bonus period where you have an increased chance of finding rarer “shiny” sculptures when you dig. The effect lasts for about 3 minutes.
11. How do I create a Secret Base in the Grand Underground?
To create a Secret Base, you’ll need the Digger Drill. Then, interact with a wall in the Grand Underground and you’ll be given the option to build a Secret Base. You can move it any time you like with the Digger Drill in your bag.
12. What is the rarest shiny Pokémon in Pokémon GO?
While rarity is always subject to change with events, some of the rarest shiny Pokémon from recent events include Unown, Heracross, and Pawniard.
13. What is the hardest Pokémon to catch in the main series games?
Many legendary Pokémon are difficult to capture. Some of the notoriously difficult Pokémon to catch are Arceus, Deoxys, and Manaphy. Beldum is another notorious Pokemon to catch.
14. Why are some Pokémon so hard to catch?
Catch rates are determined by a hidden value in the game’s code. Pokémon with low catch rates, like legendary Pokémon, are designed to be challenging and rewarding to obtain. You can increase your chances by using status conditions like sleep or paralysis and using stronger Poké Balls.
15. How does the Games Learning Society relate to Pokémon?
While the Games Learning Society primarily focuses on the educational applications of games, Pokémon itself can be a valuable learning tool. The game encourages strategic thinking, resource management, and even social interaction. You can learn more at the GamesLearningSociety.org website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
By understanding these elements, you’ll be well-equipped to unlock the vast potential of the Grand Underground and catch a wealth of fascinating Pokémon in Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl. Happy hunting!