Legendary Pokémon from previous generations are available in Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, with most able to be obtained in just one version of the game.
In order to find them, you'll need to head to Ramanas Park. However, there are a few prerequisites:
Which Slate do you need to find Zapdos?
Ramanas Park is a vast area made up of several caves, in which a specific type of Slate is requested.
In order to unlock the three Legendary Birds, take the Kanto Slate to the Kanto Room and place it on the plinth.
Save your game before placing the Slate if you're looking for a specific Bird -- if the one you want doesn't appear, just reload your game and try again. This will save you valuable time hunting Mysterious Shards, which are quite rare.
Meet Zapdos, the Thunder Bird
Capturing Zapdos can be challenging. Here's what you need to know about the Strong Legs Pokémon.
Shiny Zapdos
Zapdos' shiny version is quite similar to the base form, being just a shade deeper. Be mindful if you choose to knock out or flee when looking for another of the Legendary Birds.
Tips to make it easier to capture Zapdos
Follow this advice to make catching Zapdos easier:
- Use a Quick Ball at the very start of the encounter, and a Timer Ball if the battle lasts more than 10 rounds.
- Take a Pokémon with False Swipe to ensure you don't accidentally kill it.
- Take a Pokémon that can inflict Paralyze or Sleep.
- Pay attention to how much PP its moves have.
- Save your game right in front of it, before engaging.
Scizor is ideal for catching the Rock Titan due to its dual Steel / Bug types. Gallade and Absol are also good choices. A Ground type Pokémon is also strong, since it won't take any damage from Zapdos' Electric-based moves.
If you accidentally knock it out, you will need more Kanto Slates. Once you have captured it, you will not be able to re-summon it.
Additionally, upon exiting, an NPC will give you a Zapdos Statue for your Secret Base.
