Should You Use Your Master Ball on the Second Koraidon/Miraidon? A Comprehensive Guide
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The burning question for many Pokémon Scarlet and Violet players after completing the main story is: should I use my hard-earned Master Ball on that second Legendary? Specifically, the question arises around the second Koraidon or Miraidon you encounter in Area Zero. The short answer is: it’s a valid choice, but perhaps not the best use of your incredibly rare Master Ball. Let’s dive deeper into why, and explore some alternative considerations.
The Second Legendary Encounter: Why It’s Tempting
After beating the main storyline in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, you’ll find yourself face-to-face with another version of your version’s Legendary Pokémon, either Koraidon (Scarlet) or Miraidon (Violet). This second encounter is a guaranteed event, and the Legendary will be at a solid level 72. Naturally, the idea of easily catching this powerful Pokémon using the game’s most coveted Poké Ball is tempting. The Master Ball’s 100% catch rate provides the ultimate peace of mind; no worries about frustrating escapes or failed catch attempts. Plus, it’s simply cool to use it on a Legendary Pokémon.
The Pros of Master Balling the Second Legendary
- Guaranteed Catch: The most obvious benefit. A Master Ball ensures a capture without any risk of fainting or running away.
- Simplicity: No need to spend time weakening the Pokémon or trying various Poké Balls.
- Completeness: Securing a second Legendary for trade or personal collection can be a strong motivator for some players.
- Versatility: A level 72 Legendary is a powerful addition to your team.
The Cons: Why It Might Not Be the Best Choice
- Overkill: While the second Legendary is a formidable opponent, it’s not necessarily difficult to catch. With the right preparation and a decent supply of Ultra Balls or Repeat Balls (if you already own your original Legendary), you can catch it without too much trouble.
- Opportunity Cost: The Master Ball is a resource you will only obtain one of, outside of very specific glitches. Spending it on something that is easily catchable with other means might leave you feeling regretful when you encounter something that absolutely requires a Master Ball.
- Other More Difficult Options: There are a few other powerful Pokémon in the game that boast much lower catch rates than the second Legendary. These include the Ruinous Quartet (Wo-Chien, Chien-Pao, Ting-Lu, and Chi-Yu) or, perhaps, a shiny or perfect IV Pokémon that you might really want to ensure the capture of.
So, What Should You Do?
Ultimately, the decision of whether to use your Master Ball on the second Koraidon or Miraidon is a personal one. However, based on the available information, we recommend the following approach:
- Save your Master Ball for the most difficult-to-catch Pokémon that don’t have a guaranteed catch. While the second Legendary is powerful, it’s not a difficult catch. The Ruinous Quartet are far more difficult.
- Prepare for the second Legendary battle: Stock up on Ultra Balls or Repeat Balls. Have a strong team with varied type coverage to help reduce its health. Bring along a Pokémon that can inflict status conditions, such as paralysis, to make catching it easier.
- Use a Timer Ball if your battle goes longer: As long as it’s been more than a few turns, a Timer Ball is an extremely good choice for catch power.
- Consider your priorities: If you absolutely value simplicity and a guaranteed capture, then using your Master Ball here is fine, so long as you fully understand that there are more difficult pokemon to obtain in the game that you may want that guaranteed catch on. But if you can spare the time and effort, saving it for the true challenges can be a more rewarding experience.
FAQs About the Master Ball and Legendary Encounters in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
1. Is the second Koraidon/Miraidon Shiny Locked?
Yes, the second Koraidon or Miraidon you encounter is shiny locked, meaning you cannot encounter a shiny version of this specific Legendary.
2. Can I Get a Third Koraidon or Miraidon?
No, you can only catch two Koraidon (Scarlet) or Miraidon (Violet) in the game. Once you catch the second one, you won’t be able to catch another.
3. Do Koraidon and Miraidon Respawn if I Knock Them Out?
Yes, if you knock out the Koraidon/Miraidon during the encounter in Area Zero, it will respawn when you leave and re-enter the area. If you have caught it, it will not.
4. What Type of Ball Should I Use on the Second Legendary If I Don’t Use the Master Ball?
Ultra Balls are a good general choice. If you’ve already caught the first Koraidon or Miraidon, Repeat Balls are even better. Timer Balls are ideal for long battles.
5. Is the Master Ball a 100% Catch?
Yes, the Master Ball has a 100% catch rate on any Pokémon, with very few exceptions.
6. Can You Miss with a Master Ball?
No, you cannot miss with a Master Ball in the traditional sense. Even if your throw doesn’t physically hit the Pokémon, it will still result in a guaranteed capture.
7. Can a Pokémon Escape a Master Ball?
No, outside of some very rare glitches in very early Pokémon games, a Pokémon cannot escape a Master Ball.
8. How Many Master Balls Can I Get in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?
Currently, players only get one Master Ball through the standard gameplay. There is no known method to legitimately obtain a second in the current release.
9. What Are Some Other Good Uses for the Master Ball?
The best alternatives would be to capture the Ruinous Quartet (Wo-Chien, Chien-Pao, Ting-Lu, and Chi-Yu). The Galarian Birds in Pokémon GO, and shiny or perfect IV Pokémon are other commonly cited uses of the Master Ball.
10. What Are Koraidon’s and Miraidon’s Weaknesses?
Koraidon is doubly weak to Fairy-type moves, as well as being weak to Psychic and Flying-type moves. Miraidon is weak to Ground-type moves.
11. Can I Ride Koraidon or Miraidon in Pokemon Violet?
Yes, once you have completed the main storyline and triggered the second encounter, you will be able to ride your respective Legendary Pokemon.
12. Can You Use Your Master Ball on the Paradox Pokemon?
While you can use your Master Ball on Paradox Pokémon, it is generally not recommended, since these can be caught with relative ease with Ultra Balls and other Pokeballs.
13. Can you trade your second Koraidon or Miraidon?
Yes, the second Koraidon or Miraidon functions the same as any other Pokemon and can be captured, boxed, and traded normally.
14. Is the Master Ball The Best Poke Ball?
The Master Ball is the most powerful, having a 100% catch rate, and is considered the best Pokeball. However, Ultra Balls, Timer Balls, and Repeat Balls are all great options if you don’t want to use the Master Ball.
15. Is Eternatus a Legendary or Mythical?
Eternatus is a Legendary Pokémon introduced in Generation VIII. It is not a Mythical Pokémon.
Conclusion
While the allure of a guaranteed catch on the second Koraidon or Miraidon with your Master Ball is undeniable, it’s essential to weigh your options carefully. The second Legendary is catchable without it, and that Master Ball is better saved for truly difficult challenges. Consider your options, prepare for the battle, and make the most informed decision for your specific Pokémon journey in Scarlet and Violet. Happy catching!