How to Get to Sootopolis City in Pokémon Emerald: A Step-by-Step Guide – Pokémon Emerald is a classic game that holds a special place in the hearts of fans. One of the most fascinating cities in the game is Sootopolis City, a unique location hidden within a crater and surrounded by water. Reaching Sootopolis City is not as straightforward as traveling to other areas in Hoenn, and many players often find themselves stuck. This guide will walk you through the exact steps to get to Sootopolis City in Pokémon Emerald.
What Makes Sootopolis City Special?
Sootopolis City is one of the most visually striking locations in Pokémon Emerald. It is built inside a massive crater formed by a meteorite impact and is only accessible via water or air. The city is home to the eighth Gym Leader, Wallace (or Juan, depending on the game version), and plays a significant role in the storyline involving Kyogre and Groudon. Additionally, the Cave of Origin, where players encounter these legendary Pokémon, is located here.
Preparation Before Heading to Sootopolis City
Before you embark on your journey to Sootopolis City, ensure you have the following:
- HM03 (Surf) – This move is essential for traveling across water. You can obtain Surf in the storyline after defeating Norman, the Petalburg Gym Leader.
- HM07 (Dive) – You’ll need this move to access the underwater entrance to Sootopolis City. After defeating Tate and Liza, the Mossdeep Gym Leaders, Steven grants Dive.
- A Pokémon That Can Learn Surf and Dive – Ensure you have at least one Pokémon in your party capable of learning these HMs.
- PokéNav or Map – This will help you locate the route to Sootopolis City easily.
- Poké Balls and Healing Items – Stock up on these in case you encounter wild Pokémon or need to heal during your journey.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reaching Sootopolis City
Follow these steps carefully to navigate to Sootopolis City:
Step 1: Defeat the Mossdeep Gym Leaders
Before you can get to Sootopolis City, you need to defeat the twin Gym Leaders, Tate and Liza, in Mossdeep City. They specialize in Psychic-type Pokémon and use a combination of Solrock and Lunatone in double battles. You can utilize Dive outside of combat if you’ve earned the Mind Badge by defeating them.
Step 2: Obtain HM07 (Dive)
After your victory in Mossdeep City, visit Steven’s house. Steven will give you HM07 (Dive), a crucial move for exploring underwater areas. Make sure to teach Dive to an appropriate Pokémon in your party.
Step 3: Head to Route 126
From Mossdeep City, Surf southwards to Route 124 and continue west to Route 126. Keep an eye on your PokéNav map to stay on the correct route. Route 126 surrounds Sootopolis City, but the city itself is hidden underwater.
Step 4: Dive Underwater
Once you reach Route 126, look for an area where you can Dive. These spots are usually marked by darker patches of water. Use Dive to go underwater, and you’ll find a network of underwater passages.
Step 5: Locate the Entrance to Sootopolis City
While underwater, search for a large rock formation with an opening. This is the entrance to Sootopolis City. Swim towards it and resurface by using Dive again.
Step 6: Enter Sootopolis City
After resurfacing, you’ll find yourself inside the crater of Sootopolis City. Congratulations! You’ve made it to this iconic location.
Exploring Sootopolis City
Now that you’re in Sootopolis City, there are several key points of interest:
The Cave of Origin
This is where the storyline involving Kyogre and Groudon reaches its climax. Depending on your progress in the game, you may need to enter the Cave of Origin to quell the battle between these legendary Pokémon.
The Sootopolis Gym
The final Gym in Pokémon Emerald is located here. Wallace (or Juan) specializes in Water-type Pokémon, and defeating him will earn you the Rain Badge, allowing you to enter the Pokémon League.
Poké Mart and Pokémon Center
Stock up on items and heal your team before proceeding with the storyline or Gym battle.
Tips for Navigating Sootopolis City
1. Use a Flying Pokémon
Once you’ve discovered Sootopolis City, you can Fly to it anytime. This makes revisiting the city much easier.
2. Prepare for the Gym Battle
The Sootopolis Gym is one of the toughest in the game. Bring Electric- and Grass-type Pokémon to counter Wallace’s Water-types.
3. Save Before Entering the Cave of Origin
Legendary encounters are pivotal moments in Pokémon games. Save your progress before facing Kyogre or Groudon to avoid losing your chance to capture them.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What if I don’t have a Pokémon that knows Dive?
If you don’t have a Pokémon capable of learning Dive, you can catch a Water-type Pokémon such as Wailmer or Tentacool, which are commonly found while Surfing. - Can I skip Sootopolis City?
No, Sootopolis City is a mandatory part of the main storyline in Pokémon Emerald. You need to visit the city to progress in the game. - How can I leave the city of Sootopolis?
Once you’ve entered Sootopolis City, you can leave by Surfing out of the crater. Alternatively, after discovering the city, you can Fly to and from it.
Conclusion
Reaching Sootopolis City in Pokémon Emerald may seem daunting, but with the right preparation and guidance, it’s an exciting adventure. The journey involves exploring underwater passages, which adds a unique touch to the gameplay. Once in Sootopolis City, you’ll encounter some of the most thrilling moments of the game, including legendary Pokémon battles and the final Gym challenge.
By following this guide, you’ll have no trouble finding and exploring Sootopolis City. Remember to save your game frequently, stock up on items, and enjoy the captivating world of Pokémon Emerald. Whether you’re a new player or revisiting this classic title, the journey to Sootopolis City is an unforgettable experience.