Advice on collecting Pokémon in Pokémon Platinum
In Pokémon Platinum, the key to collecting Pokémon efficiently is to maximize encounter opportunities, use capture tools wisely, and plan around the Sinnoh Dex and National Dex unlocks. Early preparation and smart exploration will save you hours of grinding later.
Essential Tips for Collecting Pokémon
- Catch Starly early: The Starly line evolves into Staraptor, one of the strongest early-game Pokémon thanks to its speed and access to Close Combat.
- Use Bibarel as an HM carrier: Bibarel can learn multiple HMs (Surf, Strength, Rock Smash, Waterfall), freeing your main team from HM clutter.
- Get the EXP Share in Eterna City: This item helps level weaker Pokémon while you train stronger ones, making collection and evolution smoother.
- Explore the Great Marsh daily: The Safari Zone equivalent in Sinnoh rotates rare Pokémon each day, so check often for exclusives like Carnivine.
- Use Poké Radar after the National Dex: This tool lets you chain encounters for rare Pokémon and shinies. It's essential for completing the expanded roster.
- Trade with Diamond/Pearl: Some Pokémon are version-exclusive. Trading ensures you can fill gaps in your Sinnoh Dex before unlocking the National Dex.
- Time-based encounters: Certain Pokémon only appear at night (e.g., Murkrow) or during the day (e.g., Hoothoot). Adjust your playtime to catch them all.
- Use honey trees strategically: Slather honey on trees to attract rare Pokémon like Heracross. Check back after six hours for encounters.
- Prepare for legendaries: Stock Ultra Balls, Dusk Balls, and status moves (Sleep/Paralysis) before attempting captures of Dialga, Palkia, Giratina, and others.
- Complete the Sinnoh Dex first: Professor Rowan upgrades you to the National Dex only after you've seen all Sinnoh Pokémon, unlocking access to dozens more.
Why These Tips Matter
Pokémon Platinum expands the Sinnoh region with new encounter tables, legendary events, and post-game content. Without careful planning, you'll miss rare Pokémon or waste time grinding inefficiently. By leveraging tools like the Poké Radar, honey trees, and daily events, you'll streamline your collection and enjoy the thrill of completing both the Sinnoh and National Dex.
So old game