Pokemon Ruby Leveling Spots
Okay, let's talk Pokemon Ruby leveling. We all love it, right? Right? Well, maybe not the leveling part itself. It can be a bit...grindy.
Early Game Blues (and Beauties!)
Early on, you're basically punching Poochyenas. Fun? Debatable. I see you, grinding your starter in Petalburg Woods. We've all been there. Facing those annoying Team Aqua/Magma grunts for the tenth time with the same Zigzagoon. Who thought that was a good idea?
My unpopular opinion? Forget the Woods after the first few trainers. Head north! Rustboro City isn't that far. Geodude is a worthy opponent. Plus, you can flex on Roxanne with a grass type. Or suffer the consequences. Your choice.
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But honestly, those early levels are always a bit of a slog. Like wading through treacle in wellington boots.
Mid-Game Mayhem (and Machokes!)
Slateport City is popping! But so is the need to level up. By now, your team is probably a diverse bunch. Maybe. Or maybe you’ve accidentally made a mono-type team. No judgment here. Okay, maybe a little.
Dewford Town's gym leader, Brawly, is a fighting-type expert. But honestly, Brawly is a skill check rather than a level check. If you struggle on him, you might be able to find some experience to the west of Slateport, in the caves on Route 116. Otherwise, just give it a few tries and you'll eventually beat him!
Route 110 is an option. Those trainers are conveniently placed. Their Pokemon, however, are a bit… underwhelming. Maybe that's why it is so conveniently placed.
My hot take? Try cycling Road. Not for the trainers, but the wild encounters. There are much more options here, and you can find new members for your team! Plus, it's therapeutic. Well, as therapeutic as mashing the 'A' button can be.
Late-Game Loot (and Legendaries!)
Victory Road. The name itself is mocking you. "Victory? You haven't even gotten past the Zubats yet!" It’s the Pokemon equivalent of an obstacle course designed by someone who really hates fun.
Victory Road can be a good leveling spot, but only if you're dedicated. Navigating the caves and solving the puzzles while battling trainers is not the most effective way to level up your team. You might be better off going somewhere else.
My unpopular, and potentially controversial, suggestion? The Elite Four.
Yes, I know what you're thinking: "But I'm trying to level for the Elite Four!" Hear me out. Lose on purpose! Strategically, of course. Pick one or two Pokemon to train. Use them strategically. Then, lose and go back to the Pokemon Center. Wash, rinse, repeat. It's faster than slogging through Victory Road, and you get to see Glacia’s fabulous ice sculpture again and again.
Plus, think of the rematch potential! Imagine curbstomping them after training on them. The satisfaction! The petty revenge!
Of course, you can always use a cheat code for rare candies, I won't tell! But where's the satisfaction in that?!
Leveling: A Necessary Evil?
Ultimately, leveling is part of the Pokemon experience. It's a love-hate relationship. We complain about it, but we also kind of enjoy the sense of accomplishment when our Mudkip finally evolves into a mighty Swampert.
So, embrace the grind, find your favorite spot (even if it's the Elite Four, apparently!), and remember, every level counts. Even if it takes an eternity to get there.