Learn about navigating the field in Pokémon Gold and Silver, including finding items, encountering wild Pokémon, trainer battles, using HMs, and utilizing town resources like Pokémon Centers and Poké Marts.
This guide covers the basics of navigating the field in Pokémon Gold & Silver, including how to find items, encounter wild Pokémon, engage in trainer battles, use HMs, and utilize town resources.
Controls
| Button | Function |
|---|---|
| D-Pad | Move around in the field and move cursors in menus. |
| A Button | Confirm choices, examine the tile in your facing, and advance text. |
| B Button | Cancel some decisions. |
| Start Button | Bring up the menu. |
| Select Button | N/A |
The Field
A significant portion of your time in Pokémon Gold & Silver will be spent in the field, which encompasses the overworld, dungeons, and towns. There are several key aspects to understand about the field:
Items in the Field
You can find various items and treasures throughout the overworld. These include medicine, Poké Balls, TMs, berries, hold items, and Apricorns. Items can be found in several ways:
- In the Open: Items appear as Poké Balls. Examining them grants the item. Be cautious, as some may be Voltorb or Electrode.
- Hidden: Some items are not visible and require pressing 'A' while facing the tile they are on. Obvious spots include empty grass patches, boulders, or standalone trees. The Itemfinder, obtained later, will indicate the presence of hidden items.
- From People: NPCs may give you items directly or after completing a task or visiting at a specific time.
- Trees: Berries and Apricorns can be found in trees.
Tall Grass
Tall grass, found on many Routes, can trigger random wild Pokémon encounters. The type and frequency of Pokémon depend on the area. Wild Pokémon can be caught and added to your party. Items like the Cleanse Tag or Repels can reduce encounters, but avoiding grass is the most effective method.
Other Wild Encounters
Wild Pokémon can also be encountered in caves simply by walking around. Later in the game, you can use Headbutt, Surf, and Fishing Rods to encounter different Pokémon.
Trainer Battles
Walking within a Trainer's line of sight will initiate a battle. Trainers may have 1 to 6 Pokémon. Winning battles yields money and 50% more EXP than defeating wild Pokémon of the same level. Trainers can often be avoided by moving out of their sightline or maneuvering around them.
Pokémon Moves in the Field (HMs)
Obstacles like rocks, trees, or dark caves can be overcome using Hidden Machines (HMs). HMs teach moves that can be used an unlimited number of times in the field. They are found throughout the storyline and are necessary for progression. HM use requires the appropriate Badge, which is typically obtained before acquiring the HM.
Town Resources
Most towns offer essential resources:
- Pokémon Centers: Marked by a "Poké" sign. The nurse heals your Pokémon's HP, PP, and status ailments for free. The PC allows you to store Pokémon and items, evaluate your Pokédex, and access the multiplayer area for trading and battling. The Time Capsule enables trading with Generation 1 games.
- Poké Marts: Marked by a "Mart" sign. Here you can purchase items such as Poké Balls, medicine, and various other useful resources for your journey.
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