How to Defeat Gym Leader Roark

Struggling with Roark? Learn the best strategies, Pokémon types, and items to use to defeat the first Gym Leader in Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl.

Roark is the first Gym Leader you'll face in Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl. He's a Rock-type specialist, so bringing Pokémon with Water or Grass moves will give you a significant advantage.

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Geodude - Level 12, Rock/Ground type
• Onix - Level 12, Rock/Ground type
• Cranidos - Level 14, Rock type

Phases:

1. Geodude & Onix: These Pokémon are weak to Water and Grass-type attacks, taking quadruple damage. If you chose Turtwig or Piplup as your starter, they'll be very effective. Otherwise, consider training a Budew from Route 204 or a Machop from Route 207. If your Chimchar evolves into Monferno at Level 14, its Fighting-type will also be useful.
2. Cranidos: This is Roark's ace. It's fast and can use Headbutt, which has a chance to make your Pokémon flinch, preventing them from attacking. It also uses Bulldoze, a Ground-type move that damages and lowers your Speed, which is particularly bad for Chimchar/Monferno.

Strategy:

• Item Usage: Before the battle, consider using the X Defense item found in Oreburgh Mine. This will boost your active Pokémon's Defense, helping it survive hits, especially from Cranidos. You can buy more X Defense later if needed.
• Dealing with Stealth Rock: Geodude and Onix can set up Stealth Rock, which damages your Pokémon every time they switch in. Onix also has the Sturdy ability, meaning it will survive at least one hit. If Stealth Rock is active, try to avoid switching Pokémon unnecessarily.
• Cranidos Counter: The X Defense buff is crucial for dealing with Cranidos's powerful Headbutt and Bulldoze. If Cranidos attacks first and flinches your Pokémon, you'll lose valuable turns. The Defense boost should help you survive these hits and retaliate.

Upon defeating Roark, you will receive the Coal Badge and TM76 Stealth Rock. The Coal Badge allows you to use the Hidden Move Rock Smash outside of battle.