Introduction
Embarking on a journey through the Sinnoh region in Pokemon Platinum is an exciting adventure, filled with challenges and discoveries. One of the first significant hurdles players encounter is the challenge of facing Roark, the Gym Leader of Oreburgh City. He is a formidable opponent who specializes in Rock-type Pokemon. Before you can test your skills and battle your way to victory, you must first locate Roark himself. Finding him can be a bit of a task for new players, as he’s not immediately available at the Oreburgh Gym. This comprehensive guide will lead you step-by-step through the process of finding Roark, preparing for the intense battle, and ultimately earning your first Gym Badge. Let us begin!
The Path to Oreburgh City
The journey to Oreburgh City starts, like every adventure, in your hometown, Twinleaf Town. After initial preparations, your adventure begins on Route two hundred and one. Travel this route towards the direction of Sandgem Town, encountering wild Pokemon and potentially other trainers along the way. Upon reaching Sandgem Town, you’ll have the opportunity to make an introduction to Professor Rowan, a renowned Pokemon researcher, and his assistant, either Lucas or Dawn, depending on your chosen gender. Following this key meeting, your adventure will take you to Route two hundred and two. On Route two hundred and two, you will find yourself battling several trainers that are a part of the initial learning curve for the game and battling with your starter.
Further on your grand adventure, you will reach Jubilife City. Jubilife City is the first major city you will encounter, and has an array of activities and important places to visit. One such place is the Pokemon School. You can find many trainers battling and gaining experience here. Furthermore, you can also visit the TV Station, where you can see your character on television. While in Jubilife City, you will also encounter Team Galactic members for the first time.
After leaving Jubilife City, you will arrive to the Route two hundred and three. Route two hundred and three is the path you need to take in order to reach the Oreburgh Gate. In this route, you will encounter many trainers and wild Pokemon. After the Route two hundred and three, you will be in the Oreburgh Gate, a small cave that connects Route two hundred and three to Oreburgh City. It is dark, and is difficult to navigate, especially if it is your first time playing. Navigate through the cave, fighting trainers, to arrive at your destination, Oreburgh City.
The Hunt for Roark Begins in Oreburgh Mine
When you first arrive in Oreburgh City, you might naturally head straight for the Gym, hoping to challenge Roark immediately. However, you’ll find that the Gym Leader is nowhere to be seen. The residents of Oreburgh City will tell you that Roark is at the Oreburgh Mine, which is located at the very south end of the city.
To find Roark, make your way to the southern part of Oreburgh City. You’ll easily spot the entrance to the Oreburgh Mine; it’s a large, open doorway leading into a dark and cavernous area. Step inside and prepare to descend into the depths.
Navigating the Depths of Oreburgh Mine
The Oreburgh Mine is a sprawling network of tunnels and passages, teeming with wild Pokemon and the echoes of mining activity. As you navigate through the mine, be prepared to encounter Geodude, Zubat, and other Rock and Ground-type Pokemon. These encounters can be a great opportunity to level up your own Pokemon and gain some valuable experience for the upcoming Gym battle.
As you journey deeper into the mine, you’ll eventually find Roark. He is usually near the back of the mine. He can be found inspecting rocks or mining. His presence in the mine shows his interest in Pokemon, and shows that he is not just a battle machine.
Roark’s Role and Triggering the Gym Battle
You’ll find Roark engrossed in his work, examining rock formations and seemingly fascinated by the geological history of the area. Roark is in the mines studying rock formations. This gives insight into his personality, and it shows that he likes to study the rocks he uses to fight with. Approaching and speaking to him will trigger a conversation. It is important for the storyline to speak with him in the mines, before you can challenge him at the gym.
Speaking to Roark in the mine is crucial. After a short exchange, Roark acknowledges that he needs to return to the Gym to fulfill his duties as the Gym Leader. He informs you that he will be waiting for you there. This is your cue to exit the mine and head back to the Oreburgh Gym, where the real challenge awaits.
Preparing for the Oreburgh Gym Battle: Know Your Opponent
Before you rush into the Gym, it’s wise to prepare for the battle ahead. Roark is a master of Rock-type Pokemon, and his team is specifically designed to exploit the weaknesses of unprepared trainers.
Roark’s team consists of three formidable Rock-type Pokemon: Geodude, Onix, and Cranidos. Geodude, at level twelve, poses a threat with its Sturdy ability and Rock Throw attack. Onix, also at level twelve, boasts impressive physical defense and can use Rock Tomb to lower your Pokemon’s speed. Finally, Cranidos, at level fourteen, is the star of Roark’s team. The move Headbutt is the first formidable move players will likely encounter, and can one shot unsuspecting Pokemon. As his strongest Pokemon, this will be the toughest hurdle in facing Roark.
Knowing Roark’s team is the first step in preparing for the Gym battle. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of Rock-type Pokemon will give you a significant advantage. Rock-type Pokemon are strong against Fire, Flying, Bug, and Ice types, but they are vulnerable to Water, Grass, Fighting, Ground, and Steel-type moves.
Recommended Pokemon Types and Strategies
To effectively counter Roark’s Rock-type team, it’s essential to have Pokemon with moves that exploit their weaknesses. Water, Grass, Fighting, Ground, and Steel-type moves will deal significant damage to Roark’s Pokemon.
Early in the game, it may be challenging to find Pokemon of these specific types. However, with a little exploration and strategic planning, you can assemble a team capable of taking on Roark. If you chose Turtwig as your starter Pokemon, you’ll have a Grass-type advantage from the very beginning. Catching a Budew on Route two hundred and four is also an excellent option, as it can learn Grass-type moves like Absorb. Additionally, capturing a Machop on Route two hundred and seven can provide you with a Fighting-type advantage.
Beyond type matchups, consider your battle strategy. Use status conditions like paralysis or poison to weaken Roark’s Pokemon. Exploit their low Special Defense stat with special attacks. And don’t be afraid to use items like Potions and status healing items to keep your Pokemon healthy and ready for battle.
The Oreburgh Gym Battle: Test Your Skills
The Oreburgh Gym is designed as a Rock-Type gym. It features many paths, and trainers that use Rock-Type Pokemon. This allows the player to get familiar with Rock-Type Pokemon, and how to battle against them. The arena gives you a clear sight of Roark, and allows you to get ready for the battle.
Once you find yourself face to face with Roark, the battle begins. In this battle, you will face Geodude, Onix, and Cranidos. The key to winning is to utilize effective Pokemon that are either Water, Grass, Fighting, Ground, and Steel type. Bring those types of Pokemon, and you will have no problem with Roark.
Victory and the Coal Badge
After an intense battle, you emerge victorious. Roark congratulates you on your skill and presents you with the Coal Badge, a symbol of your triumph. The Coal Badge not only signifies your victory over Roark but also grants you the ability to use Rock Smash outside of battle, opening up new areas and possibilities for exploration. You’ll also receive the TM76 Stealth Rock, a powerful move that sets up a trap for your opponent’s Pokemon.
Conclusion: A Champion’s First Step
Locating Roark in Pokemon Platinum requires a short detour to the Oreburgh Mine, but this extra step is essential for initiating the Gym challenge and earning your first badge. By following this guide, you can easily find Roark, prepare for the battle, and emerge victorious.
The victory at Oreburgh Gym is the start of a champion’s journey. The journey of a Pokemon Master is long and difficult. You will have to complete several tasks and battles that will test your skills and perseverance. With dedication, perseverance, and a thirst for knowledge, you can overcome any challenge and become a true Pokemon Master. Now that you know where to find Roark and how to defeat him, you’re one step closer to becoming the Pokemon League Champion. The Sinnoh region is vast and full of undiscovered adventures. What are you waiting for? Go out and explore!
