In Pokémon HeartGold, the Viridian City Gym Leader is not Brock; that's a Platinum and Diamond/Pearl thing. HeartGold features Lt. Surge, the Electric-type Gym Leader. Let's break down his team, including the Pokémon he uses and their approximate levels:
Lt. Surge's Pokémon Team in Pokémon HeartGold
Lt. Surge's team in HeartGold is a challenging introduction to Electric-type Pokémon. He utilizes a relatively straightforward strategy, but you'll need to be prepared. His Pokémon typically appear at the following levels (these can fluctuate slightly based on your game progress):
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Level 16 Raichu: Raichu is Lt. Surge's star Pokémon. This speedy Electric-type packs a punch and will likely be one of your biggest hurdles. Its high Speed stat means it often gets to attack first. Be prepared to counter its Thunderbolt and Quick Attack.
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Level 14 Voltorb: Voltorb is a bit less threatening than Raichu, but still dangerous. This Pokémon's Self-Destruct move can be a surprise, potentially taking down your Pokémon with it. It often serves as a distraction or a way to thin out your party's health before Raichu finishes the job.
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Level 15 Electrode: Similar to Voltorb, Electrode is a speedy Pokémon that is likely to use Self-Destruct. The higher level than Voltorb may make it a bit tougher to take down.
Important Note: The order of Pokémon Lt. Surge sends out can vary slightly between playthroughs, but Raichu is almost always his final and strongest Pokémon. He'll generally lead with either Voltorb or Electrode.
What are the best strategies to beat Lt. Surge?
Ground-type Pokémon: Ground-type attacks are super effective against Electric-type Pokémon. Pokémon like Geodude, Sandshrew, or Diglett (if you've obtained one and leveled it up appropriately) will be invaluable here.
Water-type Pokémon: While not super effective, Water-type attacks can still deal decent damage and are a good backup option if you don't have a Ground-type readily available.
Leveling Up: Ensuring your Pokémon are adequately leveled is crucial. Aim for Pokémon that are a few levels higher than Lt. Surge's team, giving you a significant advantage.
Moves: Make sure your Pokémon have a good variety of moves, particularly those that target Electric-types.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What type of Pokémon is weak against Electric-type Pokémon?
Ground-type Pokémon are incredibly weak against Electric-type attacks, making them the best choice for Lt. Surge's gym.
What level should my Pokémon be to beat Lt. Surge?
It's recommended to have Pokémon around levels 18-20 to comfortably beat Lt. Surge. Slightly lower-level Pokémon with effective moves and good strategies can still win, but a higher level provides a margin of safety.
Can I beat Lt. Surge without a Ground-type Pokémon?
It's challenging, but not impossible. Water-type attacks can deal decent damage, and certain Normal-type attacks can also prove effective depending on your Pokemon's stats. However, a Ground-type Pokémon significantly increases your chances of victory.
What are some good Pokémon to use against Lt. Surge?
Geodude, Sandslash, and Golem (if you’ve evolved) are exceptionally good Ground-type counters. If you lack a Ground-type, consider using a Water-type like Starmie or even a strong Normal-type like a leveled-up Machop or Mankey.
By understanding Lt. Surge's team and utilizing effective strategies, you'll be well-equipped to conquer the Viridian City Gym in Pokémon HeartGold! Remember to utilize type matchups and level your team appropriately for the best results.
