Pokémon Sword, the latest installment in the beloved Pokémon series, has brought a slew of new and exciting features to the table. One of the most intriguing aspects of the game is the introduction of Zarude, a mythical Pokémon with a reputation for being both elusive and powerful. But, as many trainers have discovered, getting your hands on this Rogue Monkey can be quite the challenge. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Zarude and explore the various methods for adding this enigmatic Pokémon to your party.
What is Zarude and Why is it so Rare?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of catching Zarude, let’s take a step back and discuss what makes this Pokémon so special. Zarude is a mythical, Dark-type Pokémon that is native to the Galar region. According to Pokémon lore, Zarude is a solitary creature that roams the dense forests of the region, avoiding human contact whenever possible. This elusive nature has earned Zarude the nickname “Rogue Monkey,” a testament to its cunning and agility.
But what makes Zarude so rare? For starters, Zarude is not a wild Pokémon that can be caught through normal gameplay. Unlike other Pokémon, Zarude does not spawn in the wild, nor can it be encountered through random encounters or Max Raid Battles. Instead, Zarude can only be obtained through a series of specific events and interactions, which we’ll explore in more detail below.
Zarude’s Unique Characteristics
Before we explore the methods for catching Zarude, it’s essential to understand its unique characteristics. As a mythical Pokémon, Zarude boasts an impressive set of stats, including:
- Type: Dark
- HP: 95
- Attack: 120
- Defense: 80
- Special Attack: 60
- Special Defense: 80
- Speed: 60
In addition to its impressive stats, Zarude also has a unique set of Abilities, including:
- Dauntless Shield: This Ability reduces damage from priority moves.
- Strong Jaw: This Ability increases the power of biting moves, such as Crunch and Bite.
Method 1: The Wild Area
One of the most widely-known methods for catching Zarude is through the Wild Area, a sprawling region in the north of the Galar region. To access the Wild Area, you’ll need to progress through the story until you’ve received the Wild Area permit from Professor Magnolia.
Once you’ve gained access to the Wild Area, you’ll need to make your way to the Dense Forest, located in the north-eastern part of the region. The Dense Forest is home to a variety of wild Pokémon, including Zarude.
Here are a few tips for increasing your chances of encountering Zarude in the Wild Area:
- Make sure you have a high-level Pokémon: Zarude is a powerful Pokémon, and you’ll need a high-level team to stand a chance against it.
- Bring a Pokémon with a strong Dark-type move: As a Dark-type Pokémon, Zarude is weak to Dark-type moves. Bringing a Pokémon with a strong Dark-type move, such as Crunch or Dark Pulse, can increase your chances of landing a hit.
- Be prepared for a tough battle: Zarude is no pushover, and you’ll need to be prepared for a tough battle. Bring a variety of potions and revives to ensure you can heal your Pokémon as needed.
Increasing Your Chances of Encountering Zarude
While encountering Zarude in the Wild Area is largely based on luck, there are a few strategies you can use to increase your chances:
- Visit the Dense Forest during peak hours: Zarude is more likely to spawn during peak hours, which typically occur between 8 am and 10 am in-game.
- Explore the Dense Forest thoroughly: Take your time exploring the Dense Forest, and make sure to investigate any suspicious-looking areas.
- Use the Pokémon Radar: The Pokémon Radar is a useful tool that can help you track down rare Pokémon like Zarude. Make sure to use it regularly to increase your chances of encountering this elusive Pokémon.
Method 2: Online Events and Distribution
In addition to encountering Zarude in the Wild Area, you can also obtain this mythical Pokémon through online events and distribution. From time to time, the Pokémon Company will host special events and distributions that allow players to receive exclusive Pokémon, including Zarude.
Here are a few tips for taking advantage of online events and distributions:
- Stay up-to-date with Pokémon news and announcements: Keep an eye on the official Pokémon website and social media channels for news and announcements about upcoming events and distributions.
- Participate in online events: Participate in online events, such as online tournaments and challenges, to increase your chances of receiving exclusive rewards, including Zarude.
- Code distribution: Keep an eye out for code distributions, which can grant you access to exclusive Pokémon like Zarude.
Method 3: Trading with Other Players
Finally, if you’re unable to catch Zarude through the Wild Area or online events and distributions, you can always try trading with other players. Zarude is a highly sought-after Pokémon, and many players are willing to trade it for other rare or valuable Pokémon.
Here are a few tips for trading for Zarude:
- Join online communities and forums: Join online communities and forums dedicated to Pokémon trading to connect with other players who may be willing to trade Zarude.
- Offer a valuable trade: Make sure you’re offering a valuable trade in exchange for Zarude. This could include other rare or hard-to-find Pokémon, as well as valuable items and resources.
- Negotiate carefully: When negotiating a trade, make sure to communicate clearly and respectfully with the other player. Be prepared to compromise and come to a mutually beneficial agreement.
Conclusion
Catching Zarude in Pokémon Sword can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Whether you’re exploring the Wild Area, participating in online events, or trading with other players, there are several methods you can use to add this elusive Pokémon to your party. Remember to stay patient, persistent, and flexible, and you’ll be well on your way to catching this mythical Pokémon. Good luck, trainers!
What is Zarude and why is it so hard to catch?
Zarude is a mythical Dark/Grass-type Pokémon introduced in Pokémon Sword. It’s a rogue monkey with incredible strength and agility, making it a formidable opponent in battle. Zarude’s elusive nature is due to its ability to evade capture and its rare spawns in the wild. Its Dark-type moves also make it resistant to traditional catching methods, requiring trainers to use alternative strategies to catch it.
Trainers who have attempted to catch Zarude have reported that it can teleport short distances, making it difficult to track and corner. Its high speed and agility also allow it to dodge Poké Balls with ease. Additionally, Zarude is known to flee from battle when its HP is low, making it essential to have a solid battle strategy to weaken it before attempting to catch it.
Where can I find Zarude in the wild?
Zarude can be found in the Wild Area, specifically in the jungle-like region of the Challenge Road. It’s most commonly spotted near the rivers and waterfalls, where its Dark-type moves can be used to its advantage. However, it’s essential to note that Zarude is a rare spawn, and its appearance is not guaranteed even in its preferred habitat.
To increase your chances of finding Zarude, it’s recommended to visit the Wild Area during overcast weather, as this is when it’s most active. You can also try using a Pokémon with the ability to sense hidden Pokémon, such as a Pokémon with the ability Keen Eye. This will help you detect Zarude even if it’s not visibly present on the map.
What’s the best Poké Ball to use to catch Zarude?
When it comes to catching Zarude, traditional Poké Balls may not be enough. Due to its Dark-type moves, Zarude is resistant to standard Poké Balls, making it essential to use specialized Poké Balls that can counter its resistances. The Dusk Ball is an excellent choice, as it has a higher catch rate when used during nighttime or in dark areas.
Another option is the Repeat Ball, which has a higher catch rate when used on Pokémon that have been caught before. Since Zarude is a rare spawn, it’s unlikely that you’ll have caught it before, but the Repeat Ball can still be useful if you’ve caught other Pokémon in the Wild Area. Whichever Poké Ball you choose, make sure to use it when Zarude is weakened and unable to teleport away.
What’s the best way to weaken Zarude before catching it?
Weakening Zarude before attempting to catch it is crucial, as it will reduce its chances of escaping or teleporting away. A solid battle strategy involves using Pokémon with moves that can exploit Zarude’s weaknesses, such as Bug-type or Fairy-type moves. Additionally, using status effects like paralysis or sleep can hinder Zarude’s ability to teleport or dodge Poké Balls.
It’s also essential to have a Pokémon with high speed and special attack moves to quickly deal damage to Zarude. A Pokémon like Sylveon with its Fairy-type moves or a Bug-type Pokémon like Genesect can be effective in weakening Zarude. Make sure to save your game frequently during the battle, as Zarude’s high strength and speed can lead to unexpected losses.
Can I shiny hunt for Zarude?
Yes, it is possible to shiny hunt for Zarude, but it requires an immense amount of patience and dedication. Shiny Zarude is extremely rare, and the chances of encountering one are astronomically low. However, if you’re determined to catch a shiny Zarude, make sure to have a solid understanding of the shiny spawn mechanics and use the Masuda Method to increase your chances.
To increase your chances of encountering a shiny Zarude, save your game before entering the Wild Area and reload the game until you encounter a Zarude. Then, use a Pokémon with the ability to sense hidden Pokémon to detect Zarude’s shiny status. If it’s not shiny, reload the game again and repeat the process until you encounter a shiny Zarude.
Can I trade for Zarude if I’m unable to catch it?
If you’re unable to catch Zarude after multiple attempts, trading with other players may be an option. However, be prepared for a challenging trade, as Zarude is a highly sought-after Pokémon. You may need to offer rare or high-level Pokémon in exchange for a Zarude, and even then, there’s no guarantee that the trade will go through.
Additionally, be cautious of fake Zarude offers or scams, as they are common in online trading communities. Make sure to verify the authenticity of the Zarude and the trader’s credibility before proceeding with the trade. You can also try participating in Zarude giveaways or events hosted by the Pokémon community or official Pokémon channels.
What rewards do I get for catching Zarude?
Catching Zarude comes with several rewards, including a massive boost to your Pokémon journey. Zarude’s rare status makes it a valuable addition to your Pokédex, and its unique Dark/Grass-type moveset makes it a formidable opponent in battle. Additionally, catching Zarude will earn you a significant amount of experience points, which can help you level up your Pokémon quickly.
Moreover, Zarude’s capture will also grant you access to exclusive content, such as special Poké Balls or other rare items. The sense of accomplishment and pride in catching such an elusive Pokémon will also be a significant reward in itself. Overall, catching Zarude is an achievement that will make your Pokémon journey even more memorable and rewarding.