What Level Pokemon Does Brock Have in Fire Red?
Brock, the Pewter City Gym Leader, presents the first true challenge in Pokémon Fire Red. He specializes in Rock-type Pokémon, a daunting obstacle for players who chose Charmander as their starter. So, precisely, what level Pokémon does Brock have in Fire Red?
Brock’s team consists of two Pokémon:
- Geodude at Level 12
- Onix at Level 14
These levels are significant because they establish the early game difficulty curve and necessitate a strategic approach, especially for trainers lacking a strong Water or Grass-type advantage.
Understanding Brock’s Team and Its Weaknesses
Brock’s seemingly simple team can be surprisingly tough for unprepared trainers. Geodude, a Rock/Ground-type, possesses high Defense and a useful move in Tackle. Onix, with its intimidating size and equally impressive Defense, uses Tackle and Bind to inflict damage and restrict opponent’s movement.
However, understanding their weaknesses is crucial. Both Geodude and Onix are double-weak to Water and Grass-type moves. This means these moves inflict four times the normal damage. A well-trained Bulbasaur or Squirtle can easily sweep through Brock’s team.
Strategies for Defeating Brock
Beating Brock, even with a Charmander, is achievable with the right strategy. Here are several effective approaches:
Exploiting Type Matchups
The most straightforward tactic is to exploit the type weaknesses. If you chose Squirtle, you already have a significant advantage. Level it up to learn Bubble, a powerful Water-type move that will quickly dispatch both Geodude and Onix. Bulbasaur, similarly, learns Vine Whip, a Grass-type move that will make short work of Brock’s Pokémon.
Using Status Conditions
Applying status conditions like Poison or Burn can slowly whittle down Brock’s Pokémon. However, access to these moves is limited early in the game. More realistically, moves that lower Attack like Growl (available to many early Pokémon, including Charmander) can make the battle significantly easier. Reducing Brock’s Pokémon’s Attack stat lessens the impact of their physical attacks.
Level Grinding
Level grinding before the battle is always a valid option. While tedious, gaining a few levels on your starting Pokémon can provide the extra edge needed to survive Brock’s attacks and deal sufficient damage. Aim for at least Level 16 if using Charmander.
Utilizing Held Items
Giving your Pokémon held items like Oran Berries can provide crucial healing during the battle. These can be found in the wild or purchased in the Poke Mart.
Capturing and Training Other Pokémon
If you chose Charmander, consider catching and training a Grass or Water-type Pokémon to counter Brock. Mankey, found on Route 22, can also be a viable option.
Utilizing Item Strategies
Employing items like Potions during the battle to heal your Pokémon when they’re low on health can also make a big difference. However, be mindful of the number of turns you’re spending healing rather than attacking.
Brock’s Reward and Its Significance
Defeating Brock earns you the Boulder Badge, which allows you to use Flash outside of battle (once you acquire the HM). More importantly, you receive TM39 Rock Tomb.
Rock Tomb is a Rock-type move that also lowers the opponent’s Speed stat. This TM can be valuable for teaching Rock-type coverage to Pokémon that lack it naturally, especially later in the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Brock in Fire Red
1. Can Brock’s Onix be defeated with Charmander alone?
Yes, but it requires a considerable amount of level grinding (aim for at least level 16) and strategic use of Growl to lower Onix’s Attack. It also requires a good amount of luck when it comes to critical hits. However, it’s recommended to catch and train a Grass or Water-type for a more reliable strategy.
2. What is the best Pokémon to use against Brock?
Bulbasaur and Squirtle are the best choices due to their type advantage. However, even without those starters, Pokémon that can learn Water or Grass-type moves, or those with high Attack and Defense can also be effective.
3. What level should my starter be before fighting Brock?
If you chose Bulbasaur or Squirtle, aim for around Level 14. If you chose Charmander, Level 16 or higher is recommended, along with a solid strategy.
4. What are the best moves to use against Brock’s Pokémon?
Water and Grass-type moves are the most effective. Examples include Bubble, Vine Whip, and Water Gun (if you have TM available).
5. Where can I find Pokémon to help me beat Brock if I chose Charmander?
Mankey can be found on Route 22, and its Fighting-type moves can be somewhat effective.
6. Can I catch Geodude before battling Brock?
No, Geodude isn’t available until later in the game, specifically in Mt. Moon.
7. What does the Boulder Badge do?
The Boulder Badge allows you to use HM05 Flash outside of battle (after acquiring it) and increases the Attack of your Pokémon.
8. Is Rock Tomb a good TM to use?
Yes, Rock Tomb can be useful for slowing down opponents and providing Rock-type coverage, especially early in the game.
9. What happens if I lose to Brock?
You are returned to the Pokémon Center in Pewter City and lose some money. You can then heal your Pokémon and challenge Brock again.
10. Are there any hidden items in Pewter City that can help me against Brock?
While not directly helpful in battle, exploring Pewter City can reveal useful items like Potions in the Poke Mart.
11. What is the best strategy for using Potions during the battle?
Use Potions strategically when your Pokémon are low on health, but avoid over-relying on them, as Brock’s Pokémon can still deal significant damage. Only heal when you know you have a clear opportunity.
12. Can paralysis or sleep help against Brock’s Pokémon?
Yes, status conditions like Paralysis or Sleep can hinder Brock’s Pokémon, but acquiring moves that inflict these conditions early on is difficult.
13. Does Brock’s Onix have any other moves besides Tackle and Bind?
No, in Fire Red, Brock’s Onix only knows Tackle and Bind.
14. What is Brock’s team in later remakes like Let’s Go Pikachu/Eevee?
In Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!, Brock has a different team with different levels. He uses a Geodude at level 11 and an Onix at level 12.
15. Is it possible to skip Brock and come back later?
No, you cannot progress through the game without defeating Brock and obtaining the Boulder Badge. He is a mandatory boss.