Pokémon Sword, the latest installment in the beloved Pokémon video game series, has captured the hearts and imaginations of countless trainers worldwide. With its stunning graphics, captivating storyline, and a plethora of new Pokémon to discover, the game offers an immersive experience for players of all ages. One of the most sought-after and powerful creatures in this adventure is none other than Groudon, the legendary Ground-type Pokémon. Obtaining this mighty beast is a challenge that requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and a dash of luck. In this step-by-step guide, we will delve into the intricacies of acquiring Groudon and help you on your journey to becoming a legendary trainer.
As you embark on your quest to capture Groudon, be prepared for an exciting and arduous expedition through the vast Galar region. Groudon, known as the Continent Pokémon, is said to have the power to create landforms and expand continents. Its mere existence has the potential to shape the world around you. As a trainer, the opportunity to command such an awe-inspiring Pokémon is not to be taken lightly. However, obtaining Groudon requires more than mere luck; it demands a deep understanding of the game mechanics, a well-prepared team, and a strategic approach. Whether you are a seasoned Pokémon trainer or a novice venturing into Pokémon Sword for the first time, this guide will provide you with the necessary tools and knowledge to embark on this epic journey. So grab your Poké Balls, tighten your belt, and let’s dive straight into the steps that will lead you to the awe-inspiring encounter with Groudon.
Preparing for the Groudon Encounter
A. Necessary items and abilities
Before embarking on your journey to capture Groudon in Pokemon Sword, it is crucial to make sure you have the necessary items and abilities to increase your chances of a successful encounter. One item that is highly recommended is the Ultra Ball, which has a higher catch rate than a regular Poke Ball. It is also a good idea to have multiple Ultra Balls in case your initial attempts are unsuccessful.
In addition to the Ultra Ball, it can be beneficial to have a Pokemon with the ability Damp or Arena Trap. These abilities prevent Groudon from fleeing the battle, giving you more turns to weaken it and attempt a capture. Pokemon such as Quagsire with the Damp ability or Dugtrio with the Arena Trap ability are great choices for this purpose.
B. Recommended levels and team composition
To effectively battle Groudon, it is important to have a team of Pokemon that are at an appropriate level. Groudon’s level is determined by the number of gym badges you have obtained, so make sure your team is around the same level or slightly higher to ensure a challenging but winnable battle.
When composing your team, consider choosing Pokemon with types that are strong against Groudon. Groudon is a Ground and Fire type Pokemon, so Water, Rock, and Ground type moves will be super effective against it. Pokemon such as Swampert, Tyranitar, and Excadrill are excellent choices as they have access to strong moves of these types.
Furthermore, it can be beneficial to have Pokemon that can set up entry hazards such as Stealth Rock or toxic spikes. These hazards can chip away at Groudon’s health as it switches in and out, making it easier to weaken it for capture. Pokemon like Ferrothorn or Forretress are great options for this role.
By having the necessary items, abilities, and a well-balanced team, you will be well-prepared for the upcoming battle with Groudon. With careful planning and strategic moves, you will increase your chances of capturing this powerful Pokemon and adding it to your team.
Locating the Groudon Den
A. Information on Groudon’s den location
Before embarking on your quest to capture Groudon in Pokemon Sword, it is crucial to know the location of its den. Groudon can be found in the Wild Area, a vast open area that connects different towns and routes.
The den in which Groudon resides is randomized and changes periodically, so it may take some time to find it. To locate the Groudon den, you will need to pay attention to the weather conditions and the overworld Pokemon wandering in the Wild Area.
Groudon is a Ground/Fire type Pokemon, so it is more likely to appear during clear weather or in areas with volcanic activity. Keep an eye out for areas with volcanic ash or active lava flows, as these indicate potential Groudon den locations.
As you explore the Wild Area, speak to the NPCs you encounter, particularly those with information about weather patterns. They may provide valuable hints about the current location of Groudon’s den, making your search much easier.
B. Tips for navigating the Wild Area
Navigating the Wild Area can be overwhelming due to its vastness and the abundance of Pokemon roaming around. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the Wild Area efficiently:
1. Use the Town Map and Rotom Bike: The Town Map is an indispensable tool for exploring the Wild Area. It allows you to mark den locations and plan your route. Additionally, using the Rotom Bike will make traveling faster and easier.
2. Follow the Raid Beacons: Keep an eye out for raid beams of light shooting up from specific dens. These beams indicate that a Dynamax Pokemon is waiting to be battled, and it could potentially be Groudon.
3. Utilize Wishing Pieces: Wishing Pieces are special items that allow you to activate a den and start a Max Raid Battle. Use them strategically to increase your chances of encountering Groudon in a den.
4. Interact with NPCs: Engage in conversations with the NPCs scattered throughout the Wild Area. They often share valuable information about weather patterns, den locations, and even give you free items that can aid you on your journey.
By following these tips and utilizing the information provided by NPCs, you will be well-prepared to locate Groudon’s den in the Wild Area. Remember to stay vigilant and patient, as finding the den may require some persistence.
Battling Groudon
Once you have successfully located Groudon’s den in the Wild Area, it’s time to face off against this powerful Legendary Pokemon in battle. This section will provide you with an understanding of Groudon’s stats and moveset, as well as strategies for countering its attacks.
Understanding Groudon’s stats and moveset
Groudon is a Ground and Fire-type Pokemon, which gives it a unique set of strengths and weaknesses. It has impressive base stats, particularly in Attack and Defense, making it a formidable opponent. Additionally, Groudon has access to a wide range of moves, including powerful Ground-type attacks like Earthquake and Fire-type moves like Fire Punch.
One key aspect to note is Groudon’s ability, Drought, which automatically changes the weather to harsh sunlight when it enters battle. This ability not only boosts the power of Fire-type moves but also weakens the effectiveness of Water-type moves. Keep this in mind when planning your team and movesets.
Strategies for countering Groudon’s attacks
To effectively counter Groudon’s attacks, it’s important to carefully plan your team composition and moves. Water and Grass-type Pokemon can be particularly useful against Groudon, as they are resistant to its Ground and Fire-type moves. Electric-type Pokemon are also effective, as they can take advantage of Groudon’s double weakness to this type.
In terms of moves, using Water-type attacks like Surf or Hydro Pump can deal significant damage to Groudon. Grass-type attacks, such as Solar Beam or Energy Ball, can also be effective, especially during the harsh sunlight caused by Groudon’s ability.
It’s also important to be aware of Groudon’s potential moves and plan your strategy accordingly. Moves like Earthquake can cause widespread damage, so having Pokemon with Levitate or the ability to use Protect can be helpful. Additionally, Groudon may use moves that boost its own stats, such as Bulk Up or Swords Dance, so be prepared to disrupt its strategy with moves like Taunt or Will-O-Wisp.
By carefully considering Groudon’s stats, moveset, and planning your own team and moves accordingly, you’ll be better equipped to face off against this powerful Legendary Pokemon and increase your chances of a successful capture.
Capture Method 1: Lowering Groudon’s HP
A. Effective moves and tactics
In order to increase your chances of capturing Groudon in Pokemon Sword, it is essential to weaken it by lowering its HP. Groudon is a powerful Legendary Pokemon with high Defense and Special Defense stats, so it may take some time and effort to bring its HP down to a manageable level.
Firstly, make sure to have a team of Pokemon with a variety of moves that can deal damage to Groudon effectively. Moves that are super effective against Groudon’s typing include Water-type moves like Surf or Hydro Pump, Grass-type moves like Solar Beam or Energy Ball, and Ice-type moves like Ice Beam or Blizzard. Additionally, Ground-type moves such as Earthquake or Earth Power can also be quite effective.
When battling Groudon, be mindful of its moveset and predict its actions. Groudon has access to devastating moves such as Precipice Blades, Earthquake, and Fire Punch. It is advised to have Pokemon with high Defense or that resist Groudon’s moves in your team. For instance, Water-type or Flying-type Pokemon can resist Groudon’s Ground-type moves, while Rock-type or Steel-type Pokemon can resist its Fire-type moves.
In terms of tactics, utilizing healing moves or items, such as Potions or the move Recover, can help sustain your team’s HP during the battle. Additionally, status-inflicting moves like Sleep Powder or Thunder Wave can also hinder Groudon’s actions, potentially giving you more time to whittle down its HP.
B. Avoiding Knock Out
During the battle against Groudon, it is crucial to prevent your own Pokemon from being knocked out. If all of your Pokemon faint, the battle ends and you will be unable to capture Groudon. To avoid this, prioritize healing your Pokemon when their HP gets low and switch out Pokemon that are at risk of being knocked out.
Another tactic to consider is using Pokemon with the ability to “tank” hits, meaning they have high defensive stats and can withstand powerful moves from Groudon. These Pokemon can buy you more turns to lower Groudon’s HP and increase your chances of capturing it.
It is also important to note that using damaging moves that have the potential to knock out Groudon in a single hit, such as critical hits or moves with a high base power, should be used with caution. Instead, opt for moves with lower base power to steadily chip away at Groudon’s HP without the risk of accidentally knocking it out.
By effectively lowering Groudon’s HP and avoiding knockouts, you can increase your chances of successfully capturing this powerful Legendary Pokemon in Pokemon Sword.
Capture Method 2: Afflicting Groudon with a status condition
Recommended moves and Pokemon for inflicting status conditions
Afflicting Groudon with a status condition is another effective method to increase your chances of capturing it in Pokemon Sword. Status conditions, such as sleep, paralysis, and poisoning, can make Groudon easier to handle during battle and improve your likelihood of successfully catching it.
One recommended move for inflicting a status condition on Groudon is “Sleep Powder.” This move can be learned by Grass-type Pokemon such as Venusaur or Roserade. By using Sleep Powder, you can put Groudon to sleep, which not only allows you to control the battle but also makes it easier to throw Pokeballs without the risk of Groudon breaking free.
Another useful move is “Thunder Wave.” This Electric-type move can be learned by several Pokemon, including Pikachu, Jolteon, and Rotom. Thunder Wave inflicts the paralysis status condition on Groudon, reducing its Speed stat and occasionally causing it to be unable to attack. Paralysis can make it easier to outspeed Groudon and give you more opportunities to throw Pokeballs.
Finally, poisoning Groudon with moves such as “Toxic” or “Poison Jab” can steadily chip away at its health over time. Pokemon like Crobat or Tentacruel can learn these moves and effectively poison Groudon, making it easier to wear down its HP while you attempt to catch it.
Importance of timing and predicting Groudon’s moves
Timing and predicting Groudon’s moves are crucial when using status-inflicting moves. Groudon can break free from status conditions after a few turns or even cure itself with the move “Rest,” so it’s essential to inflict the status condition at the right moment.
It is recommended to wait until Groudon has used a move that doesn’t directly target your Pokemon, such as “Solar Beam” or “Earthquake.” These moves have a charging turn, allowing you to safely use a status-inflicting move without the risk of Groudon attacking back immediately.
Additionally, try to keep an eye on Groudon’s health. If it is nearing low health, it might become more aggressive and use moves that could potentially knock out your Pokemon. Adjust your strategy accordingly and prioritize throwing Pokeballs when its health is low to avoid the risk of a faint.
By strategically timing your status-inflicting moves and predicting Groudon’s actions, you can increase your chances of successfully capturing this powerful Legendary Pokemon and adding it to your team in Pokemon Sword.
Use of Capture Techniques
A. Introduction to capture techniques
In order to successfully capture Groudon in Pokemon Sword, it is essential to understand and implement effective capture techniques. These techniques are designed to maximize the chances of capturing Groudon while minimizing the risk of failure. Capturing legendary Pokemon like Groudon requires precision and careful planning, and utilizing capture techniques can greatly enhance the overall capture experience.
B. Best techniques to apply while attempting to catch Groudon
1. False Swipe: The move False Swipe is an invaluable tool when attempting to catch Groudon. This move inflicts damage on the opponent while guaranteeing that their HP will not be reduced to zero. By using False Swipe, you can lower Groudon’s HP to a critical level without the risk of accidentally knocking it out.
2. Sleep and Paralysis: Afflicting Groudon with a status condition such as sleep or paralysis can significantly increase your chances of capturing it. When Groudon is asleep or paralyzed, its movements are restricted, making it easier to throw Pokeballs and capture it. Pokemon with moves like Sleep Powder or Thunder Wave are especially useful in this regard.
3. Timer Balls: As the battle against Groudon progresses, the effectiveness of Timer Balls gradually increases. Using Timer Balls later in the battle can significantly improve your chances of capturing Groudon. As time goes by, the capture rate of Timer Balls increases, making them incredibly valuable when attempting to catch Pokemon with a higher catch rate like Groudon.
4. Dusk Balls: If your encounter with Groudon takes place in a den or at night time, utilizing Dusk Balls can greatly enhance your capture success. Dusk Balls have a higher capture rate when used in dark environments, such as in caves or during nighttime battles, making them a preferred choice for capturing Groudon.
5. Ultra Balls: Ultra Balls are a reliable choice throughout the entire battle with Groudon. They have a higher capture rate than regular Pokeballs and should be used once Groudon’s HP has been lowered to a critical level. Ultra Balls have a higher success rate than other regular Pokeballs, increasing the likelihood of capturing Groudon.
Remember to keep a healthy supply of these Pokeballs in your inventory and utilize them strategically during the battle to optimize capture success. By employing these capture techniques, trainers will greatly increase their chances of capturing Groudon and adding it to their team.
Overall, capturing Groudon in Pokemon Sword requires careful execution and effective capture techniques. By utilizing False Swipe, inflicting status conditions, and strategically using Timer Balls, Dusk Balls, and Ultra Balls, players can improve their odds of successfully capturing Groudon. Remember to approach the battle with patience and precision, and enjoy the thrill of adding this powerful legendary Pokemon to your team.
Max Raid Battles
Overview of Max Raid Battles and their significance
Max Raid Battles are a new feature introduced in Pokemon Sword and Shield that allow players to team up with friends or NPCs to take on powerful Dynamax or Gigantamax Pokemon. These battles take place in the Wild Area and offer a unique challenge and opportunity to capture rare and powerful Pokemon, including Groudon.
Participating in Max Raid Battles is significant because it provides an increased chance of encountering Groudon compared to regular gameplay. Groudon is considered a Legendary Pokemon, and its appearance rate in the Wild Area is relatively low. However, by participating in Max Raid Battles, players can increase their chances of encountering Groudon and have a shot at capturing it.
Utilizing Max Raid Battles to increase chances of encountering Groudon
To increase your chances of encountering Groudon through Max Raid Battles, follow these strategies:
1. Check the Max Raid Battle dens: Keep an eye out for dens that have Groudon as a potential encounter. Dens that house Groudon will have a red light emanating from them, indicating the presence of this powerful Legendary Pokemon.
2. Join or create Max Raid Battle lobbies: Interacting with other players in online or local multiplayer is a great way to increase your chances of finding a Max Raid Battle featuring Groudon. Coordinate with friends or join online communities to find groups specifically targeting Groudon raids.
3. Use Wishing Pieces: Wishing Pieces can be obtained from the Watt Trader in the Wild Area or as rewards for completing Max Raid Battles. These items allow you to forcibly activate a den, increasing the likelihood of encountering Groudon. Use them strategically to maximize your chances.
4. Utilize the Purple Beam exploit: Occasionally, players may find Max Raid dens emitting a purple beam of light. These dens have a higher chance of featuring a Gigantamax Pokemon, including Groudon. Monitor the Wild Area for these dens and take advantage of them to increase your odds of encountering Groudon.
By actively participating in Max Raid Battles and employing these strategies, trainers will greatly increase their chances of encountering and capturing Groudon in Pokemon Sword. Remember to cooperate and communicate with fellow trainers to maximize your chances of success.
Post-Capture Care
Checking Groudon’s stats and IVs
Once Groudon has been captured, it is important to evaluate its stats and Individual Values (IVs). IVs determine the potential strength of a Pokemon’s stats, with higher IVs indicating better potential. Use the Judge function in the PC Box system to have an in-game character evaluate Groudon’s IVs and identify its strongest stats. This will help determine the best way to train and utilize Groudon in competitive battles.
Training Groudon for competitive battles
To optimize Groudon for competitive battles, focus on its strengths and consider the following:
1. Move set: Groudon has a wide range of moves to choose from. Consider its stats and intended role in your team to build a move set that complements its strengths. Powerful physical moves like Earthquake, Fire Punch, Swords Dance, and Stone Edge are often recommended.
2. EV Training: EV (Effort Value) training is essential to boost Groudon’s stats further. Focus on increasing its Attack and Speed through defeating specific Pokemon that yield the desired EVs. Use items like Power Braces or Vitamins to speed up the training process.
3. Nature: Groudon’s nature can influence its stats. A nature that boosts Attack or Speed, such as Adamant or Jolly, can be beneficial for maximizing its potential in battle.
4. Ability: Groudon has two possible abilities, Drought and Desolate Land. Drought increases the power of Fire-type moves and nullifies the effects of weather conditions, while Desolate Land summons harsh sunlight. Consider which ability will synergize best with your team strategy.
By carefully evaluating Groudon’s stats, IVs, move set, training, and overall compatibility with your team, you can maximize its potential as a competitive battle powerhouse.
Note: The specifics of training and competitive play can be extensive and are beyond the scope of this guide. It is recommended to further research and consult experienced players or online resources for more in-depth training strategies and competitive insights.
Conclusion
Recap of steps and tips for capturing Groudon in Pokemon Sword
Throughout this comprehensive guide, we have outlined the necessary preparations, battle strategies, and capture techniques required to successfully capture Groudon in Pokemon Sword. To recap, the key steps and tips include:
1. Prepare your team with necessary items, abilities, levels, and composition.
2. Locate Groudon’s den in the Wild Area using available information and navigation tips.
3. Understand Groudon’s stats, moveset, and battle strategies for countering its attacks.
4. Utilize capture methods such as lowering Groudon’s HP and inflicting status conditions.
5. Learn and apply capture techniques to increase the chances of successfully catching Groudon.
6. Utilize Max Raid Battles to increase the likelihood of encountering Groudon.
7. Carefully assess Groudon’s stats and IVs post-capture and train it for competitive battles.
Encouragement to enjoy using Groudon in the game
Now that you have successfully captured Groudon, it’s time to enjoy the benefits of adding this legendary Pokemon to your team. Groudon’s immense power, unique typing, and impressive move pool make it an exciting addition to any roster. Take the time to train and optimize Groudon for battles, and relish the opportunity to showcase its strength in both casual and competitive gameplay. Remember, capturing Groudon is a significant achievement, and its presence will undoubtedly enhance your Pokemon Sword experience.
Post-Capture Care
Checking Groudon’s stats and IVs
After successfully capturing Groudon in Pokemon Sword, it is important to assess its stats and Individual Values (IVs). These factors determine Groudon’s overall potential and effectiveness in battles. By checking these attributes, players can determine the best course of action for training and utilizing Groudon.
To check Groudon’s stats and IVs, players can visit the Battle Tower in Wyndon City. Inside the Battle Tower, there is an NPC called the IV Judge who can evaluate Groudon’s IVs. The judge will assign a rating to each of Groudon’s stats, indicating whether they have low, average, or exceptional potential. It is ideal to have Groudon with exceptional IVs for maximum performance.
Training Groudon for competitive battles
Once players have assessed Groudon’s stats and IVs, it is time to train it for competitive battles. Training involves leveling up Groudon, teaching it strategic moves, and optimizing its EV (Effort Value) distribution.
To level up Groudon efficiently, players can utilize items such as the Exp. Share or Exp. Candy gained through Max Raid Battles. Pitting Groudon against strong opponents in battles, especially trainers in the Battle Tower, can also help it gain experience points and level up quickly.
Teaching Groudon moves that complement its strengths and cover its weaknesses is crucial. Moves like Earthquake, Stone Edge, Thunder Punch, and Swords Dance are popular choices for Groudon’s move set. Players can obtain these moves through TMs or by breeding with compatible Pokemon.
Effort Values (EVs) play a significant role in enhancing Groudon’s stats. By defeating specific Pokemon species or using special items called EV-enhancing items, players can allocate EVs to specific stats, such as Attack or Speed. It is advisable to distribute Groudon’s EVs based on its intended role in battles. For example, if players want Groudon to be a physical attacker, they should allocate EVs to increase its Attack and Speed.
Furthermore, players can also equip Groudon with beneficial items such as the Leftovers or the Assault Vest to enhance its survivability or offensive capabilities. These items can be obtained through various methods like purchasing from shops or finding them in the game world.
Overall, post-capture care involves assessing Groudon’s stats and IVs and training it effectively for competitive battles. By optimizing its potential through leveling up, move selection, and EV distribution, players can fully harness the power of Groudon as a formidable asset in their Pokemon Sword journey.
Conclusion
A. Recap of Steps and Tips for Capturing Groudon in Pokemon Sword
Now that you have reached the final section of our guide, let’s do a quick recap of the steps and tips you need to follow in order to successfully capture Groudon in Pokemon Sword.
Firstly, it’s essential to prepare yourself for the Groudon encounter. Make sure you have necessary items such as healing potions and status condition healing items. Additionally, having Pokemon with abilities like Drought or Intimidate can be extremely helpful. Your team should ideally be at a higher level, around 70-75, and composed of Pokemon that are resistant to Groudon’s Ground and Fire-type moves.
Once you are fully prepared, you need to locate Groudon’s den. This can be a bit challenging as the den’s location changes every day. However, by utilizing the information available online and learning tips for navigating the Wild Area, you will be able to find it without much trouble.
When battling Groudon, it’s crucial to understand its stats and moveset. Groudon is a powerful Legendary Pokemon with high Attack and Defense stats, so countering its attacks with Pokemon that resist or are immune to its moves is key.
To capture Groudon, there are two main methods you can use. The first method involves lowering Groudon’s HP without knocking it out. Using moves that are not very effective against Groudon, such as Water or Grass-type moves, can help in this regard. It’s important to avoid knocking out Groudon to increase your chances of capturing it.
The second method involves afflicting Groudon with a status condition. Moves like Thunder Wave or Spore can be effective for this. Timing is crucial here, as it’s important to predict Groudon’s moves and inflict the status condition at the right moment.
During the capture attempt, consider the use of capture techniques such as using Ultra Balls instead of standard Poke Balls, using status condition healing items, or even using a Pokemon with the False Swipe move to lower Groudon’s HP further.
Utilizing Max Raid Battles can increase your chances of encountering Groudon. These battles have a chance of spawning Dynamax Groudon, giving you more opportunities to capture it.
After successfully capturing Groudon, make sure to check its stats and Individual Values (IVs). You can then train Groudon for competitive battles, taking advantage of its incredible strengths.
B. Encouragement to Enjoy Using Groudon in the Game
Congratulations! You have now captured Groudon, one of the most powerful Legendary Pokemon in Pokemon Sword. As you continue your journey in the game, make sure to fully enjoy using Groudon in battles. Its incredible stats and devastating moves will surely make your battles more exciting and victorious.
Remember, Groudon is not just a powerful Pokemon, but also a symbol of strength and determination. With Groudon by your side, you can conquer any challenge that comes your way. So go out there, explore the Galar region, and show everyone the true power of Groudon!
In conclusion, capturing Groudon in Pokemon Sword requires careful preparation, strategic battling, and smart capture techniques. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of capturing this legendary Pokemon. So gear up, train your team, and embark on the thrilling quest to capture Groudon!