Is Riolu Rare in Black 2? A Comprehensive Guide to Catching the Elusive Pokémon

Yes, Riolu is indeed a rare Pokémon to encounter in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2. Its spawn rate is a mere 5% in the specific locations where it appears, making it a sought-after and somewhat frustrating catch for many trainers. Finding this Fighting-type Pokémon requires patience, persistence, and a little bit of luck.

Where to Find Riolu in Black 2

Riolu’s appearance in Black 2 is limited to specific post-game areas: Challenger’s Cave and Route 9. This means you can’t even begin your search until you’ve defeated the Elite Four and become the Champion. Once you’ve earned that title, you’ll gain access to these locations.

Challenger’s Cave

Challenger’s Cave is a multi-layered dungeon filled with strong Pokémon. Navigating this cave can be tricky, and finding Riolu within its depths is even more so. Remember that 5% encounter rate!

Route 9

Route 9 is another location where Riolu can be found, but again, the 5% encounter rate applies. This route is relatively straightforward compared to Challenger’s Cave, which might make it a preferable hunting ground for some trainers.

The 5% Encounter Rate: What It Means

A 5% encounter rate translates to a low probability of running into Riolu. For every 100 encounters in the designated areas, you can statistically expect to see only 5 Riolu. In practice, this means you might encounter several other Pokémon multiple times before finally spotting Riolu. Be prepared for a potentially long and repetitive search.

Tips for Catching Riolu

Given its rarity, maximizing your chances of catching Riolu is essential. Here are some strategies:

1. Patience is Key: Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find Riolu immediately. Persistence is crucial. Keep running around in the designated areas, and eventually, your luck will turn.
2. Repel Strategy: Use Repels to prevent encounters with weaker Pokémon, increasing the chances of encountering Riolu. This is particularly useful in Challenger’s Cave, where many lower-level Pokémon reside.
3. False Swipe: Teach a Pokémon the move False Swipe. This move guarantees that you’ll leave the opposing Pokémon with at least 1 HP, making it easier to catch without accidentally knocking it out.
4. Status Conditions: Inflict status conditions like Sleep or Paralysis on Riolu to further increase your catch rate.
5. Catching Power: Consider using Dusk Balls inside Challenger’s Cave for an increased catch rate.
6. Breeding: As the article mentioned, after you have your desired Riolu, breed it. This will make the tedious part of finding Riolu a one-time activity.
7. Save Before Encounter: Save the game before encountering the Pokemon and restart the game if you fail to capture it.

Why Is Riolu So Desirable?

Riolu’s appeal stems not only from its rarity but also from its evolution, Lucario, which is a powerful and versatile Pokémon. Lucario boasts a dual Fighting/Steel-type, giving it a unique set of resistances and strengths. It can be built as a physical or special attacker, making it adaptable to various team compositions.

Lucario’s popularity also extends beyond its in-game utility. Its sleek design and role in the Pokémon anime have solidified its status as a fan-favorite. For many trainers, catching and raising a Riolu into a Lucario is a rewarding accomplishment. The Games Learning Society could use a case study on this phenomenon to dive into the intricacies of the “hunt”. See GamesLearningSociety.org for more.

The Challenge of Evolving Riolu

Catching Riolu is just the first hurdle; evolving it into Lucario requires raising its Friendship/Happiness to a certain level. This can be achieved through various methods:

• Walking with Riolu: Simply keeping Riolu in your party as you explore the region will gradually increase its happiness.
• Using Berries: Certain berries, like the Pomeg Berry, Kelpsy Berry, Qualot Berry, Hondew Berry, and Grepa Berry, can increase happiness, though they may also slightly lower certain stats.
• Luxury Ball: Catch Riolu in a Luxury Ball to gain an additional point to the results of any happiness increase.
• Avoid Fainting: Allowing Riolu to faint in battle will decrease its happiness, so try to keep it healthy.
• Give a Massage: Easing the tensions of your partner will, in return, make them feel better and increase happiness.

Crucially, Riolu will only evolve when it levels up during the day. This means you need to raise its Friendship to the required level and then gain a level between the hours of 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM in your game. If you level it up at night, it won’t evolve.

Riolu: Overrated or Underrated?

The article mentions that Riolu is overrated in the early game. This is true, as Riolu’s base stats are relatively low. Riolu is better in the late game after it has evolved into Lucario. However, its potential for growth is immense.

The key is to evolve Riolu as quickly as possible. Once it becomes Lucario, it gains access to a wider range of powerful moves and becomes a valuable asset to your team. Therefore, focus on maximizing its Friendship and leveling it up during the day to unlock its true potential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Riolu in Black 2

1. What is the exact encounter rate for Riolu in Black 2?

   Riolu has a 5% encounter rate in both Challenger’s Cave and Route 9.

2. Do I need to beat the game to find Riolu?

   Yes, Riolu is only available in post-game areas, accessible after defeating the Elite Four and becoming the Champion.

3. Does the time of day affect Riolu’s spawn rate?

   No, the time of day does not affect Riolu’s spawn rate. It remains at 5% regardless of the time.

4. What is the best location to look for Riolu, Challenger’s Cave or Route 9?

   Route 9 is generally considered easier to navigate, but Challenger’s Cave might have fewer low-level Pokémon if you use Repels effectively.

5. What kind of Pokémon is Riolu?

   Riolu is a Fighting-type Pokémon.

6. What does Riolu evolve into?

   Riolu evolves into Lucario, a dual Fighting/Steel-type Pokémon.

7. How do I evolve Riolu into Lucario?

   Riolu evolves when it levels up during the day with a high Friendship/Happiness rating (at least 220).

8. What is the best way to increase Riolu’s Friendship?

   Keep Riolu in your party, use it in battles, give it berries, and avoid letting it faint.

9. What time of day does Riolu need to level up to evolve?

   Riolu must level up between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM in your game.

10. Is Lucario a strong Pokémon in Black 2?

    Yes, Lucario is a powerful and versatile Pokémon with a high attack and special attack stat.

11. Can I breed Riolu once I catch one?

    Yes, once you have a Riolu, you can breed it to obtain more. This can be a more reliable way to get Riolu than searching for it in the wild.

12. Are there any items that can help me catch Riolu easier?

    Yes, Dusk Balls (inside Challenger’s Cave) and Quick Balls can increase your catch rate. Also, having a Pokémon with False Swipe can help prevent accidentally knocking out Riolu.

13. What is False Swipe?

    False Swipe is a move that always leaves the target Pokémon with at least 1 HP, making it easier to catch without knocking it out.

14. Can I find a Shiny Riolu in Black 2?

    Yes, it is possible to find a Shiny Riolu, but the chances are extremely low (1/8192).

15. Is Riolu the only rare Pokémon in Black 2?

    No, there are other rare Pokémon in Black 2, but Riolu is particularly sought after due to its rarity and the strength of its evolution, Lucario.

In conclusion, while Riolu is rare in Black 2, with the right strategy and a healthy dose of patience, you can add this valuable Pokémon to your team. Good luck, and happy hunting!