While the official starters in Pokémon Legends: Arceus are Cyndaquil, Oshawott, and Rowlet, it’s only natural that the Hisui region is also home to Gen 4’s introductory trio. Years after the events of Legends, players are tasked with choosing between Chimchar, Turtwig, and Piplup before setting off on their grand adventure across Sinnoh in Diamond & Pearl — here, however, you’re able to catch all three of them.
It’s worth noting that you can also catch all three Legends: Arceus starters regardless of which one you choose at the beginning of the game. This means you can be comfortable in the knowledge of having made the correct choice with Cyndaquil while also getting to complete your ‘Dex research for the other two later on.
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That’s not what we’re here for today, though. Oh no. We’re here to talk about monkeys, penguins, and turtles with little trees growing out of their backs.
Here’s everything you need to know about where to find all three Sinnoh starters in Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus – Where to find Chimchar
Chimchar will likely be the first of the three starters you encounter in Legends: Arceus. Located in the Obsidian Fieldlands, this fiery monkey can be caught after you gain access to Basculegion as part of the main story. When you revisit this area, head to the island at the southernmost part of the map, which you’ll soon learn is actually Ramanas Island, home of Legendary Pokémon in Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl.
There will always be one Chimchar here, which will respawn after successfully resetting the map by going back to the village or waiting a full day. There’s also an Alpha Infernape here if you’re feeling confident, although it’s probably best left to the postgame.
Tip: Don’t just bring a Water Pokémon and expect this Infernape to roll over — it knows Thunder Punch, because of course it does.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus – Where to find Turtwig
Turtwig can also be found pretty early in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, although once again you’ll need access to Basculegion first. After taking down Ursaluna at the Sludge Mound in the Crimson Mirelands, head south to an area called Ursa’s Ring — which, naturally, is home to Ursaring.
Slightly east of here, at the northernmost tip of the map, you’ll find a small body of water. On the other side of this you’ll see a narrow bank with a Turtwig, who will be accompanied by either a Paras or a Parasect.
This one’s tricky! Paras and Parasect both have aggressive dispositions, meaning they’ll attack you on sight. Turtwig, on the other hand, is timid and will run away from you, possibly despawning in the process. Catch the Paras or Parasect with a Feather Ball so that you can remove them from the equation from a distance, then head over on Basculegion and try to get a back strike on the Turtwig.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus – Where to find Piplup
It’s probably obvious by now, but Piplup, like Chimchar and Turtwig, can only be accessed after acquiring Basculegion as a Ride Pokémon. When you reach the Cobalt Coastlands, sail out to sea and around Veilstone Cape to the west. On your map, you’ll see that there is a body of land directly to the west of Firespit Island, which is also home to Turnback Cave — this is where you’ll find Giratina later on.
When you arrive here, you’ll spot Alpha Empoleon and a bunch of Sealeo and Walrein on the beach. If you go further into the island though, and turn right at the cliffs, you’ll see a Piplup hanging out by a little lake. It’s very shy, so try to make sure it doesn’t see you — if it runs away, you’ll need to wait for the map to reset before you’ll be able to catch it again.
For more detailed guides on everything you could possibly want to know about Pokémon Legends: Arceus, be sure to check out our complete guide and walkthrough.
Written by Cian Maher on behalf of GLHF.
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