Hey guys! Ready to become the very best, like no one ever was, in Pokémon Scarlet? A huge part of that journey is tackling the Gym Challenge! This guide will walk you through every gym location in the Paldea region, gym leaders, their types, and some tips to help you crush them. Get ready to explore and battle!

Understanding the Gym Challenge in Paldea

In Pokémon Scarlet, the Gym Challenge is one of the core storylines, and it's a pretty big deal! Unlike previous games where you might stumble upon gyms in a linear order, Paldea gives you the freedom to tackle them in almost any order you choose. This open-world approach means you can explore the region at your own pace, discovering new areas and Pokémon along the way. However, this freedom also means it's super important to be prepared. Knowing the types of Pokémon each Gym Leader specializes in will give you a significant advantage. Trust me; you don't want to walk into a Fire-type gym with a team full of Grass-types – that’s a recipe for disaster!

Before diving into each gym location, remember that leveling up your Pokémon and strategizing your team composition is key. Make sure to catch a variety of Pokémon with different type advantages. Don't underestimate the power of status moves like paralysis or sleep, either. They can turn the tide of battle when you're up against a tough opponent. Also, keep an eye out for helpful items in the world that can boost your Pokémon’s stats or heal them during battle. The Gym Challenge is not just about brute force; it's about smart planning and adaptability.

And speaking of planning, don’t forget to take advantage of the Tera Raid Battles scattered throughout the Paldea region. These battles not only offer a chance to catch rare and powerful Pokémon, but also provide valuable items and experience points that will help you strengthen your team for the Gym Challenge. So, gear up, trainers! The Paldea region awaits, and the Gym Challenge is just the beginning of your incredible adventure.

Gym Locations and Leaders

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty! Here’s a breakdown of each gym, its location, the Gym Leader, their primary type, and a little tip to help you strategize. Knowing your type matchups is crucial, so pay attention!

1. Cortondo Gym

• Location: Cortondo, West Province (Area Two)
• Gym Leader: Katy
• Type: Bug

Katy is the first Gym Leader you’ll likely encounter, and she specializes in Bug-type Pokémon. Bug types can be tricky because they have quite a few weaknesses. To take her down, bring along Pokémon that know Flying, Rock, or Fire-type moves. These types are super effective against Bug-types and will make the battle much easier. Some great Pokémon to consider for this fight include a strong Flying-type like a regional bird Pokémon or a Rock-type Pokémon that you can find in the surrounding areas. Fire-types are also excellent, but be careful of any potential Rock-type coverage moves Katy's Pokémon might have!

Before you challenge Katy, you’ll need to complete a Gym Test. For Cortondo Gym, you'll have to collect 10 olives by rolling them into the town square. This task may sound easy, but it can be tricky to maneuver the olives, adding a bit of fun to the challenge. Once you’ve gathered the olives, you can finally face Katy and her Bug-type team. Remember to use those super-effective moves and keep your Pokémon’s health up, and you’ll be one step closer to conquering the Gym Challenge!

2. Artazon Gym

• Location: Artazon, East Province (Area Three)
• Gym Leader: Brassius
• Type: Grass

Next up is Brassius, the Artazon Gym Leader, who uses Grass-type Pokémon. Grass types are weak against Fire, Flying, Poison, Bug, and Ice-type moves. Fire-types are a solid choice here, but be careful of any Ground-type moves Brassius might have! Flying-types can also be very effective, as many Grass-types struggle against them. Poison and Bug-types can work too, but they might not be as readily available early in the game. Ice-type moves can also deal significant damage, but be mindful of your Pokémon's defenses, as Grass-types can sometimes pack a punch.

To challenge Brassius, you’ll need to complete a Gym Test that involves gathering Sunflora. This test requires you to find and lead Sunflora back to a designated spot, which can be a fun and engaging task. As you explore Artazon, keep an eye out for these cheerful, sun-loving Pokémon. Once you’ve completed the Sunflora gathering task, you'll be ready to battle Brassius. Remember to bring Pokémon with moves that exploit Grass-types’ weaknesses, and you’ll be well on your way to earning another Gym Badge!

3. Levincia Gym

• Location: Levincia, East Province (Area Two)
• Gym Leader: Iono
• Type: Electric

Iono, the Levincia Gym Leader, specializes in Electric-type Pokémon. Electric types are only weak against Ground-type moves, making this battle a bit more straightforward. The key here is to have a strong Ground-type Pokémon or at least Pokémon that know Ground-type moves. Ground-type attacks will deal double damage to Electric-types, giving you a significant advantage. Be careful, though – Electric-type moves can paralyze your Pokémon, so bring along some items to cure paralysis if needed.

The Gym Test for Levincia Gym is a fun and interactive challenge that involves participating in a quiz show. You’ll need to answer questions about the city and its surroundings, testing your knowledge and observation skills. This adds a unique twist to the Gym Challenge, making it more than just battles. Once you’ve aced the quiz show, you’ll be ready to face Iono. Remember to bring your best Ground-type Pokémon and stay prepared for any tricky moves she might throw your way. With a good strategy and a bit of luck, you’ll electrify your way to victory!

4. Cascarrafa Gym

• Location: Cascarrafa, West Province (Area Three)
• Gym Leader: Kofu
• Type: Water

Kofu, the Cascarrafa Gym Leader, commands Water-type Pokémon. Water types are weak against Electric and Grass-type moves. Electric-type moves are especially effective here, so bring along some strong Electric-type Pokémon to make quick work of Kofu’s team. Grass-type moves can also work, but Electric-types generally have better coverage and can deal more consistent damage.

The Gym Test for Cascarrafa Gym involves a rather unique challenge: you need to bid at an auction for a specific item. This task tests your ability to navigate the local marketplace and make strategic decisions under pressure. Keep an eye on the bidding process and try to secure the item at a reasonable price. Once you’ve successfully completed the auction challenge, you’ll be ready to battle Kofu. With your Electric and Grass-type Pokémon ready, you’ll be sailing smoothly towards another Gym Badge!

5. Medali Gym

• Location: Medali, West Province (Area One)
• Gym Leader: Larry
• Type: Normal

Larry, the Medali Gym Leader, is unique because he uses Normal-type Pokémon. Normal types are only weak against Fighting-type moves, making this a straightforward battle. Bring along a strong Fighting-type Pokémon or Pokémon that know Fighting-type moves to exploit this weakness. Fighting-type moves will deal double damage to Normal-types, giving you a significant advantage. Since Normal-types don't have any resistances, you can focus solely on dealing as much damage as possible with your Fighting-type attacks.

The Gym Test for Medali Gym involves ordering a specific dish at a local restaurant. This task tests your ability to follow instructions and interact with the environment. Pay close attention to the details of the order, and make sure you get everything right. Once you’ve successfully placed the order, you’ll be ready to face Larry. With your Fighting-type Pokémon leading the charge, you’ll be punching your way to victory in no time!

6. Montenevera Gym

• Location: Montenevera, North Province (Area Three)
• Gym Leader: Ryme
• Type: Ghost

Ryme, the Montenevera Gym Leader, specializes in Ghost-type Pokémon. Ghost types are weak against Ghost and Dark-type moves. This can be a bit tricky since using Ghost-type moves means risking a mirror match, so bringing Dark-types can be a safer bet. Dark-type Pokémon are immune to Ghost-type moves and will deal super-effective damage in return.

The Gym Test for Montenevera Gym is a rhythm-based challenge where you have to perform alongside Ryme. This task tests your timing and coordination as you match your moves to the music. It’s a fun and engaging way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Once you’ve nailed the performance, you’ll be ready to battle Ryme. Remember to bring your strongest Dark-type Pokémon and get ready for a spooky showdown!

7. Alfornada Gym

• Location: Alfornada, South Province (Area Six)
• Gym Leader: Tulip
• Type: Psychic

Tulip, the Alfornada Gym Leader, uses Psychic-type Pokémon. Psychic types are weak against Bug, Ghost, and Dark-type moves. Dark-type Pokémon are particularly effective here, as they are immune to Psychic-type moves and can dish out super-effective damage. Bug and Ghost-types can also work, but Dark-types provide a safer and more reliable strategy.

The Gym Test for Alfornada Gym involves participating in a series of emotional expression exercises. This task challenges you to understand and convey different emotions, adding a unique and introspective element to the Gym Challenge. Once you’ve successfully navigated the emotional exercises, you’ll be ready to battle Tulip. With your Dark-type Pokémon ready, you’ll be mentally prepared for victory!

Tips for Conquering the Gym Challenge

• Type Matchups are Key: Always remember which types are strong against others. This is the most fundamental aspect of Pokémon battles.
• Variety is the Spice of Life: Don’t stick to just one type of Pokémon. Having a diverse team will help you handle any situation.
• Level Up!: Make sure your Pokémon are at an appropriate level for each gym. Grinding in the areas around the gyms can be very helpful.
• Use Held Items: Items like Berries, Life Orbs, and Choice items can give you an edge in battle.
• Don't Be Afraid to Switch: If a Pokémon is struggling, switch it out for a more advantageous one.
• Explore the Region: Paldea is full of secrets and useful items. Take your time to explore and discover everything it has to offer.

Conclusion

The Gym Challenge in Pokémon Scarlet is a thrilling adventure that tests your skills as a trainer. By understanding the Gym Leaders, their types, and the weaknesses of those types, you’ll be well-prepared to conquer each gym and earn those badges! So, get out there, explore the Paldea region, and become the Champion you were always meant to be. Good luck, trainers! You’ve got this!