The Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu Professor Oak Challenge is a unique and exciting way to experience the beloved Pokémon franchise. This challenge presents players with the task of completing the Pokédex, capturing every Pokémon available in the game without the use of any other method of obtaining them, such as trading or transferring from other games. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the Professor Oak Challenge, including strategies, team building, tips for success, and much more.
Understanding the Professor Oak Challenge
The Professor Oak Challenge is named after the iconic Pokémon professor, Professor Oak, who tasks players with completing the Pokédex. In "Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!" players are challenged to catch every Pokémon available in the Kanto region, from Bulbasaur to Mewtwo. The challenge promotes exploration, strategic gameplay, and an appreciation for the game’s mechanics.
The Rules of the Challenge
Before embarking on the Professor Oak Challenge, it’s crucial to understand the rules that govern the gameplay:
1. Catch Every Pokémon: You must catch all 151 Pokémon available in the Kanto Pokédex.
2. No Trading: Players cannot trade Pokémon with others to complete their Pokédex.
3. No Transfers: Transferring Pokémon from other games is prohibited.
4. Use of Only One Save File: Players must complete the challenge using a single save file.
5. Legendary Pokémon: Players are allowed to catch legendary Pokémon but must follow the same rules as other catches.
By adhering to these rules, players can fully immerse themselves in the challenge and experience the game in a new light.
Getting Started with Your Journey
To begin the Professor Oak Challenge, players will start their journey in Pallet Town. Here’s how to kick off your challenge successfully:
Choosing Your Starter Pokémon
At the beginning of the game, you will choose between three starter Pokémon: Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle. However, for the challenge, it is recommended to choose Pikachu because:
- Pikachu is strong: Pikachu has a solid balance of speed and power.
- Unique Moves: Pikachu can learn moves that can be beneficial against many opponents.
- Companionship: Pikachu travels with you outside of the Poké Ball, enhancing the game's experience.
Capturing Early Pokémon
After selecting Pikachu, players should focus on capturing early Pokémon found in the wild. Here are some essential Pokémon to catch early in the game:
- Pidgey: Commonly found in Route 1.
- Rattata: Also found in Route 1.
- Caterpie: Found in Viridian Forest.
- Weedle: Another common catch in Viridian Forest.
These Pokémon will form the foundation of your team and provide valuable experience points.
Building Your Team
Creating a balanced team is crucial for success in the Professor Oak Challenge. Here are some tips on team building:
Types to Consider
1. Fire Types: Essential for battling Grass and Bug types.
- Recommended Pokémon: Charmander, Growlithe.
2. Water Types: Great against Fire and Rock types.
- Recommended Pokémon: Squirtle, Staryu.
3. Grass Types: Useful against Water and Rock types.
- Recommended Pokémon: Bulbasaur, Oddish.
4. Electric Types: Effective against Water and Flying types.
- Recommended Pokémon: Pikachu, Magnemite.
5. Psychic Types: Strong against Fighting and Poison types.
- Recommended Pokémon: Abra, Drowzee.
6. Ground Types: Great for Electric types.
- Recommended Pokémon: Sandshrew, Diglett.
By diversifying your team, you can ensure you are well-equipped to handle various challenges throughout the game.
Leveling Up Your Pokémon
To succeed in the Professor Oak Challenge, your Pokémon will need to be adequately leveled. Here are some effective strategies for leveling up:
- Battles: Engage in trainer battles and wild Pokémon encounters to gain experience points.
- Use Lures: Lures can increase the chances of encountering Pokémon, leading to more battles and catches.
- Experience Candies: If you have access to them, use Experience Candies to boost your Pokémon's levels.
Strategic Catching Techniques
To complete the Pokédex, you will need effective catching techniques. Here are some strategies to enhance your catching skills:
Use Berries Wisely
- Razz Berries: These berries make it easier to catch Pokémon and should be used on harder-to-catch Pokémon.
- Silver Razz Berries: For particularly tricky catches, these are even more effective.
- Pinap Berries: Use these when you want to increase the candy yield from a catch.
Mastering the Catching Mechanics
- Aim for Circle: Wait for the colored circle to shrink and throw your Poké Ball when it's small to increase your chances.
- Excellent Throws: Try to land Excellent Throws consistently for a higher catch rate.
- Use Ultra Balls: Save your Ultra Balls for rare Pokémon or those that are hard to catch.
Dealing with Gym Battles and Trainers
As you progress, you will encounter gym leaders and trainers who will test your skills. Here are some tips to prepare:
Know Gym Leaders' Weaknesses
Each gym leader has specific Pokémon types that they specialize in. Knowing their weaknesses will help you strategize:
1. Brock (Rock Type): Use Water or Grass types.
2. Misty (Water Type): Use Electric or Grass types.
3. Lt. Surge (Electric Type): Use Ground types.
4. Erika (Grass Type): Use Fire, Flying, or Ice types.
5. Koga (Poison Type): Use Psychic or Ground types.
6. Sabrina (Psychic Type): Use Bug, Ghost, or Dark types.
7. Blaine (Fire Type): Use Water or Rock types.
8. Giovanni (Ground Type): Use Water, Grass, or Ice types.
Prepare Items for Battles
Stock up on healing items before heading into gym battles:
- Potions: Heal your Pokémon during battles.
- Revives: Bring them for critical battles to revive fainted Pokémon.
- Status Heal Items: Antidotes, Paralyze Heals, etc., can save your team during tough battles.
Completing the Pokédex
Once you defeat the Elite Four and become a champion, you still have work to do to complete your Pokédex. Here are some key tips:
Finding Missing Pokémon
- Explore Every Area: Make sure you've explored every route, cave, and city.
- Evolve Pokémon: Some Pokémon require evolution to be registered in the Pokédex. Use candies and trades (if allowed) to evolve them.
- Look for Special Spawns: Certain Pokémon only appear under specific conditions or times of the day.
Utilizing Pokémon Go
If you are also a Pokémon GO player, you can transfer Pokémon to Pokémon Let's Go for added convenience. However, keep in mind the rules of the challenge to avoid breaking any guidelines.
Final Tips for Success
Completing the Professor Oak Challenge can be a rewarding experience. Here are some final tips to ensure your success:
- Be Patient: Completing the Pokédex takes time and effort.
- Utilize Online Resources: Use forums and guides for tips on where to find elusive Pokémon.
- Have Fun: Remember that the goal is to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
In conclusion, the Pokémon Let's Go Pikachu Professor Oak Challenge is a fantastic way to engage with the game and experience Kanto like never before. By following this guide, you can navigate the challenges and emerge victorious, completing your Pokédex and earning the respect of Professor Oak himself. Happy catching!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Professor Oak Challenge in Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu?
The Professor Oak Challenge is a playthrough challenge in Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu that requires players to complete the game using only the first 151 Pokemon available in the Kanto region, similar to the original games.
How do I start the Professor Oak Challenge in Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu?
To start the Professor Oak Challenge, simply begin a new game and commit to capturing and training only the original 151 Pokemon without using any Pokemon from later generations.
What are the rules for the Professor Oak Challenge?
The main rules include using only Kanto Pokemon, completing the Pokedex for Kanto, and not trading for Pokemon outside of the original 151, though items and experience can be obtained from other sources.
Can I use Mega Evolutions during the Professor Oak Challenge?
Yes, you can use Mega Evolutions for the Kanto Pokemon that can Mega Evolve, as long as they are part of the original 151.
Are there any tips for succeeding in the Professor Oak Challenge?
Focus on leveling up your Pokemon evenly, utilize type advantages in battles, and consider capturing multiple of the same species to prepare for different challenges throughout the game.
Is it possible to complete the Professor Oak Challenge without trading?
Yes, you can complete the Professor Oak Challenge without trading, but you may need to utilize in-game mechanics like trading with NPCs or evolving certain Pokemon through leveling up.
