Pokémon Legends: Arceus: Complete Guide
Legends: Arceus Pokédex →Pokémon Legends: Arceus is an action-leaning prequel released for the Nintendo Switch in January 2022. It is set in Hisui, the ancient version of Sinnoh, long before towns, Gyms or even a Pokédex existed.
The game departs from the series formula. You explore open fields, observe Pokémon in the wild, and catch them by throwing balls without a battle. Battles still take place, but their rules are different, with move styles and a visible turn order.
It suits players who want to see the series in a new way, with an emphasis on research and exploration.
Legends: Arceus quick facts
| Release date | January 28, 2022 |
|---|---|
| Platform | Nintendo Switch |
| Region | Hisui |
| Generation | Generation VIII |
| Versions | Pokémon Legends: Arceus |
| New Pokémon | 7 new species |
| Starters | Rowlet, Cyndaquil and Oshawott |
| Legendary and Mythical | Arceus, Dialga, Palkia, Giratina, Uxie, Mesprit, Azelf, Heatran, Regigigas, Cresselia, Darkrai, Shaymin, Tornadus, Thundurus, Landorus and Enamorus |
Story and structure
This section avoids spoilers and describes only the structure of the adventure.
A mysterious force sends you to the past, where you are found by a group of settlers building a village. You join the Survey Corps and receive the task of making the first Pokédex of the region.
A dramatic figure and a group of settlers, each with a different view on how to treat Pokémon, shape the story. The ending ties back to the Sinnoh of the present.
The Pokédex mission
Your main goal is to complete the research tasks for each species. They ask you to observe, catch and battle Pokémon in various ways.
Noble Pokémon
Powerful, frenzied Pokémon called Nobles guard certain areas. You calm them by dodging their attacks and throwing items, and then you battle them.
After the story, you can keep exploring the world and finish the Pokédex.
New mechanics explained
Agile and Strong Style moves
Each move can be used in an agile style, which makes it quicker but weaker, or a strong style, which hits harder but delays your next turn.
Tip: Check the turn order bar before choosing a style. A well-timed agile move can give you two turns in a row.
Research tasks
Each Pokémon has a list of tasks, such as using a certain move, catching a number of them, or seeing them evolve. Completing them raises your research level and gives rewards.
Tip: Work on research tasks as you play. A wide range of Pokémon makes it easier to finish them.
Catching without battling
You can sneak up on a wild Pokémon and throw a ball at it directly. This can be faster than weakening it first.
Tip: Approach from behind and crouch in tall grass for the best chances.
Starter Pokémon
You pick one of three starters from the Survey Corps. Each has a Hisuian form with a different second type. They evolve at set points in the story.
| Starter | Final form | Final typing |
|---|---|---|
| Rowlet | Decidueye | GrassFighting |
| Cyndaquil | Typhlosion | FireGhost |
| Oshawott | Samurott | WaterDark |
Rowlet line
Cyndaquil line
Cyndaquil becomes Hisuian Typhlosion, a Fire and Ghost Pokémon with strong special attacks.
Watch out: It is weak to Water, Ground, Rock, Ghost and Dark.
Oshawott line
Our recommendation
For a first playthrough, we recommend Cyndaquil. Hisuian Typhlosion has strong attacks and handles many early encounters. Oshawott is a flexible choice, and Rowlet suits players who like to attack from a distance.
About this release
Legends: Arceus is a single-version game, so there is nothing to choose between.
- It centers on Arceus, the creator of the Pokémon universe, and other legendary Pokémon from Sinnoh.
- Many Pokémon appear in regional forms that exist only in Hisui.
Keep exploring
Tips for new players
- Explore each area carefully. Pokémon are visible in the world, and you can plan how to approach them.
- Work on research tasks as you go, because they raise your research level.
- Use the Agile and Strong styles to control the turn order.
- Collect crafting materials to make Poké Balls and other items.
- Do not rush into Noble battles. Prepare items and healing first.
- Check the request board in the village for rewards and side quests.
- Save often, because the world can be dangerous.
Frequently asked questions
Is Legends: Arceus a mainline Pokémon game?
It is a spin on the mainline formula that is still part of the main series, set in the past with different gameplay.
Do you battle wild Pokémon in Legends: Arceus?
Yes, but you can also catch them directly by throwing a ball without a battle.
Which starter is best in Legends: Arceus?
All three are good. Cyndaquil is the strongest for most players, Oshawott is the most flexible, and Rowlet suits ranged attackers.
Is there a sequel to Legends: Arceus?
Pokémon Legends: Z-A is a follow-up in the same spirit, set in Kalos.