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The Pokemon series is no stranger to in-game technology, with the PokeGear, the PokeNav, and the more recent Y-Comm just three of the many devices that have shown up in the games over the years. The gen 4 titles marked the introduction of the Poketch, an incredibly versatile watch-like device with a number of different uses. Fifteen years later, and this wonderful wearable is once again in the spotlight following the release of Pokemon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl.
Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl players first get their hands on the Poketch in Jubilife City, not too long after they've chosen their starter Pokemon and set out on their journey to become a Pokemon master. They'll actually come face to face with the creator of the device as they venture into the northern part of the city, who will offer to provide them with a Pokemon Watch of their very own. All they'll need to do is find the three clowns that are hidden throughout the city, none of which are hidden particularly well.
Where to Find the Three Clowns
The three clowns can be found behind the Jubilife City Pokemon Center, in front of the Poketch Company building over to the northwestern part of the city, and outside the television station to the north. Each one will ask players a simple yes/no question, to which all three answers are "Yes." If they answer every question correctly, players will receive three special coupons that they'll then be able to trade with the man from earlier to get their Poketch as promised.
Questions (Answer "Yes" to All)
- Does a Pokemon grow by defeating others and gaining Exp. Points?
- Just like Pokemon, do the moves of Pokemon also have types?
- Can a Pokemon hold an item?
How to Use the Poketch
Players can bring up the Poketch menu at any time by pressing the R button on their controller or Switch. Initially, it will show up in the top right-hand corner of the screen, but pressing R again will increase its size and allow players to interact with it. Those playing in handheld mode can use the touchscreen to press the red button on the right side of the device to cycle between the available apps, which they can interact with simply by touching the screen of the device. Those playing in docked mode will instead need to move the cursor with the left analog stick and then press the A button to simulate a touch.
What Can the Poketch Actually Do?
When players first get their Poketch, they'll only have access to four apps: a clock, a pedometer, a calculator, and a list of Pokemon. By speaking to certain people throughout the Sinnoh region though, they'll be able to unlock an additional 21 applications, including a friendship checker, a move checker, and an app that allows players to dowse for hidden items. The first new app available to players is the Memo Pad, which can be unlocked by visiting the Poketch Company building where players found the second clown.
How to Hide the Poketch Display
Given how exciting the prospect of playing around with a new toy can be, it can be very easy to skip past the single screen that very briefly explains how the Poketch works. For those who happened to miss it and would rather not have the Poketch screen in view while they play, it's possible to turn the display of the Poketch off. To do so, players will need to press and hold the R button for a second or two. To turn the display back on, players will simply need to press the R button once more.