In Pokémon SoulSilver, players have the opportunity to obtain the iconic Kanto starters – Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle – in addition to the Johto starters during their journey. Acquiring these classic Pokémon requires a series of specific actions, interactions, and visits to various locations. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get the Kanto starters in Pokémon SoulSilver:
Complete the Johto Region: Before diving into the quest for the Kanto starters, ensure that you have progressed through the Johto region’s main storyline. Defeat the Johto Gym Leaders, collect the Johto badges, and ultimately, face the Pokémon League. Completing these milestones is crucial for unlocking certain events and locations tied to the Kanto starters.
Visit Professor Elm: After becoming the Johto Champion, return to New Bark Town and visit Professor Elm’s lab. Speak to him, and he will congratulate you on becoming the Champion. Elm will then offer you one of the Johto starters – Chikorita, Cyndaquil, or Totodile. Choose the one you prefer.
Head to the Kanto Region: Once you have become the Johto Champion and selected your Johto starter, Professor Oak will appear in the lab and inform you that he has returned to his research lab in Pallet Town in the Kanto region. Now, your journey shifts to Kanto, and you can access it by taking the ship from Olivine City.
Reach Pallet Town: Sail to Olivine City, then travel to Pallet Town in the Kanto region. Professor Oak’s lab is located in the northwestern part of Pallet Town. When you arrive, speak to Professor Oak, and he will be delighted to see you. After some conversation, he will offer you one of the Kanto starters – Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle.
Choose Your Kanto Starter: Professor Oak will present you with the opportunity to choose one of the Kanto starters. Your decision here will determine which of the classic Pokémon you add to your team. Bulbasaur is a Grass/Poison type, Charmander is a Fire type, and Squirtle is a Water type. Consider your team composition and preferences before making your choice.
Level Up and Evolve: After receiving your chosen Kanto starter, it will be at a relatively low level. Train and level up your new Pokémon through battles and experience points. As they grow stronger, they will evolve into their next forms – Ivysaur for Bulbasaur, Charmeleon for Charmander, and Wartortle for Squirtle.
Utilize Time Capsule Feature: Pokémon SoulSilver also features a Time Capsule feature, allowing players to trade Pokémon with other players who own Pokémon Gold, Silver, or Crystal. If you have access to a friend’s older Pokémon game, you can trade the Kanto starters from that game to SoulSilver. Ensure that the Pokémon being traded does not exceed level 5, as this is a restriction for Time Capsule trades.
Transfer from Generation IV Games: If you have access to other Generation IV Pokémon games, such as Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, or SoulSilver, you can use the Pal Park feature to transfer Kanto starters from those games to your Pokémon SoulSilver version. However, this requires two Nintendo DS or DS Lite systems and a completed National Pokédex in the game where the Pokémon is initially caught.
Participate in Special Events: Keep an eye on any special events or distributions that may occur for Pokémon SoulSilver. Occasionally, Nintendo or Game Freak releases special events where players can obtain rare Pokémon, including the Kanto starters. Check official announcements or online communities for information on upcoming events.
Trade with Other Players: If you have friends or access to online trading platforms, you can trade for the Kanto starters with other players. This method is effective for obtaining specific Pokémon that might not be available through in-game events or features.
In summary, obtaining the Kanto starters in Pokémon SoulSilver involves progressing through the Johto region, traveling to Pallet Town in the Kanto region, and receiving the offer from Professor Oak. Your journey doesn’t end there; level up, evolve, and strategize as you incorporate these classic Pokémon into your team. Additionally, explore alternative methods like Time Capsule trades, transfers from other Generation IV games, and participation in special events or online trading to enhance your Pokémon collection in SoulSilver.
