In every Pokemon game, professors implore trainers to complete their Pokedex – a device cataloging Pokemon native to the region and beyond. Such a momentous feat requires the strongest of wills and a great deal of patience. But what rewards are there for investing such a considerable amount of time, and what happens when players complete the Pokedex?
Every Pokemon game rewards players for meeting various Pokedex milestones, such as capturing every available pocket monster. Such monumental awards provided to trainers vary from entry to entry, however. Early-generation Pokemon games offered negligible prizes while later ones granted something more practical. Those seeking to catch 'em all should review the rewards for achieving such a feat.
Updated May 2, 2023 by Sophie McEvoy: Pokemon Scarlet and Violet introduced 110 new Pokemon for trainers to catch, and a new Pokedex challenge to complete. This time, players are incentivized to fill their Pokedex by receiving certain rewards while reaching milestones on their journey to become the Pokemon Champion of Paldea.
Moreover, the release of Pokemon Legends: Arceus heralded a new innovation in completing the Pokedex, as gamers are tasked with completing the very first one through field research and different catching techniques. The way players fill up their Pokedex continues to evolve, building upon the foundations of existing entries and adding new features to keep players immersed in the gameplay.
Pokemon Red, Blue, & Yellow (Generation 1)
- Regional Pokedex: 151
- National Pokedex: N/A
In Generation 1 Pokemon games, completing the Pokedex was seemingly simple but remarkably difficult. Generation 1 lacked many of the beneficial features utilized to complete the Pokedex. Popular functions such as breeding and online trade were nonexistent during this period. Thus, making the acquirement of particular Pokemon especially challenging, even nearly impossible.
If a trainer manages to capture all 151 Pokemon – minus Mew – they receive an in-game diploma from GAME FREAK. While an unsubstantial award, it does imbue players with a sense of accomplishment. Moreover, owners of Pokemon Yellow and a GameBoy Printer can print the diploma, granting them a physical representation of their success.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete the Pokemon Red, Blue, and Yellow Pokedex, players must utilize one of two methods: trading or glitching. The former requires another Gameboy system and another Generation 1 game – preferably Pokemon Yellow. Upon meeting these requirements, players must trade all exclusive Pokemon they do not possess. The latter utilizes several notorious glitches – Ditto, Mew, and Safari Zone glitch – to acquire particular pocket monsters. Such a method is harmless and will not corrupt one's game. Overall, Red, Blue, and Yellow's negligible number of Pokemon belie the challenge of completing its Pokedex.
Pokemon Gold, Silver, & Crystal (Generation 2)
- Regional Pokedex: 251
- National Pokedex: N/A
The Generation 2 Pokemon games increased the number of pocket monsters to 251. With one hundred new Pokemon, completing the Pokedex became far more challenging. In conjunction with Generation 1's prevailing limitations, completing the Generation 2 Pokedex proved to be exceedingly difficult.
If a trainer manages to capture all 251 Pokemon- minus Celebi and Mew – they will receive an in-game diploma from GAME FREAK, similar to that seen in Generation 1. Although still an uninspiring reward, it evokes a feeling of glee from many players. Moreover, players can print the diploma using a GameBoy Printer.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete the Pokemon Gold, Silver, and Crystal Pokedex, players will require a great deal of luck and patience – or another GameBoy. Many Pokemon in Generation 2 are inexplicably elusive, such as Chansey, who has a 1% appearance rate and constantly flees. Players will require another GameBoy and Generation 2 game to acquire version-exclusive Pokemon. So, much of the difficulty of Generation 2 revolves around being patient and determined.
Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, & Emerald (Generation 3)
- Regional Pokedex: 202
- National Pokedex: 386
- Unlocking the National Pokedex: Trade with another Generation 3 game (Ruby & Sapphire); enter the Hall of Fame (Emerald)
Pokemon Generation 3's separation of the Regional and National Dexs was a game-changer. Unfortunately, the requirements for completing Pokemon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald's Pokedex will leave many players in dismay. With 135 new Pokemon – many of which are exclusive – such a feat proves to be nearly impossible and possibly costly.
If players manage to capture all 386 Pokemon – minus Deoxys and Jirachi – they will receive two in-game diplomas from GAME FREAK: one for completing the Regional Dex and another for the National Dex. In Pokemon Emerald, however, players will receive a Johto starter Pokemon in addition to the diplomas. Thus, making the completion of the Pokedex far more rewarding.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete the Pokemon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald Pokedex, players must utilize every Generation 3 game. Many Pokemon needed to complete the National Dex belong solely to one version. Pokemon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald divide Generation 3 Pokemon among each version. In addition, Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen possess every Generation 1 Pokemon, many of which are exclusive. Overall, completing the Generation 3 National Dex is a lengthy and expensive endeavor.
Pokemon FireRed & LeafGreen (Generation 3)
- Regional Pokedex: 151
- National Pokedex: 386
- Unlocking the National Pokedex: Own 60 or more Pokémon and enter the Hall of Fame
Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen return to the Kanto region, now with noticeable improvements. The most notable enhancement is the implementation of a Regional Dex and National Dex featuring a total of 386 Pokemon. Although seemingly simple to complete, Pokemon Firered and LeafGreen suffer the same difficulties as other Generation 3 games.
If players manage to capture all 386 Pokemon, they will receive two in-game diplomas from GAME FREAK: one for completing the Regional Dex and another for the National Dex. Unfortunately, these are the only rewards players receive for such a considerable feat. Thus, making the gratification of completing the Pokedex the most significant prize.
How To Complete This Pokedex
Similar to the non-remakes, completing the Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen Pokedex entails using every Generation 3 game. Players must obtain Pokemon exclusive to particular games. Before doing so, one must deliver two precious gems in Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen – a Ruby and a Sapphire. Upon acquiring these jewels, players must give them to Celio at the Pokemon Network Center on One Island. Doing so grants the ability to trade with Pokemon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald. Therefore, making this a much more lengthy endeavor to undertake.
Pokemon Diamond & Pearl (Generation 4)
- Regional Pokedex: 151
- National Pokedex: 493
- Unlocking the National Pokedex: See the first 151 Pokemon in the Sinnoh Dex
Pokemon Diamond and Pearl introduce 107 new Pokemon, making the total number of available pocket monsters 493. While updates make the Pokedex's completion easier, the process is not without numerous complications. Players need to capture certain Pokemon that are either exceptionally rare or exceedingly difficult to obtain. Thus, making the process very tedious and possibly expensive.
If players manage to capture all 493 Pokemon – minus event-exclusive ones – they will receive two in-game diplomas from GAME FREAK: one for completing the Regional Dex and another for the National Dex. Unfortunately, these are the only Pokedex rewards players receive for such a considerable feat. Thus, making the gratification of completing the Pokedex the most significant prize.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete the Pokemon Diamond and Pearl Pokedex, players must rely heavily on other Generation 4 games. There are many version-exclusive Pokemon required to complete the National Pokedex. So, access to every Generation 4 game is of the utmost importance. After a couple of trades, playthroughs, and captures, players will be able to complete the Pokemon Diamond and Pearl Pokedex. Although a lengthy and challenging process, it will grant much satisfaction.
Pokemon Platinum (Generation 4)
- Regional Pokedex: 210
- National Pokedex: 493
- Unlocking the National Pokedex: See the first 210 Pokemon in the Sinnoh Dex
Pokemon Platinum is the third installment of Generation 4, boasting many improvements and changes. Such alterations make the completion of the Pokedex somewhat easier. However, version-exclusive Pokemon poses innumerable hardships to players. Therefore, requiring access to other Generation 4 games to complete the Pokedex.
Platinum's rewards for completing the Pokedex are the same as Diamond and Pearl. While lackluster, these diplomas signify players' accomplishments and imbue one with a sense of gratification.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete the Pokemon Platinum Pokedex, players must utilize every Generation 4 game. As is common with older Pokemon games, obtaining version-exclusive Pokemon is challenging. Thus, completing the National Pokedex will take considerable time and effort. However, doing so will grant one an overwhelming feeling of success.
Pokemon HeartGold & SoulSilver (Generation 4)
- Regional Pokedex: 256
- National Pokedex: 493
- Unlocking the National Pokedex: Enter the Hall of Fame
The Generation 2 remakes – Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver – revamped the revered Johto-era classics. In addition to numerous quality-of-life updates, these remakes received 242 new Pokemon from Generation 4. Thus, making the completion of the Pokedex a much more strenuous endeavor than before. One that requires a great deal of time, effort, and previous Pokemon games.
If players succeed in capturing all 493 Pokemon in the remakes – excluding event Pokemon as usual – they will earn two diplomas, one for the Regional Dex and the other for the National Dex. In addition, players receive a star on their trainer card, further gratifying their achievement. Beyond that, players gain nothing else for such an exceptional accomplishment.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete the Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver Pokedex, players must utilize previous titles, specifically those from Generation 3 and Generation 4. Pokemon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald will provide players with Pokemon only obtainable in the Hoenn region. Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum will grant players access to Pokemon only available in the Sinnoh region. Moreover, people will have to replay games to acquire every starter Pokemon. Completing the Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver Pokedex proves to be a challenging feat, although one that would grant much satisfaction upon its completion.
Pokemon Black & White (Generation 5)
- Regional Pokedex: 156
- National Pokedex: 649
- Unlocking the National Pokedex: Defeat Ghetsis at N's Castle
Pokemon Black and White add 156 new Pokemon for players to admire and enjoy. With a total of 649 Pokemon for players to capture, completing the Pokedex proves to be an unfavorable undertaking. Fortunately, Black and White includes a myriad of features to make this process easier. If players complete the Black and White National Dex, completing Black and White 2's Pokedex will be much easier.
If players capture all 649 Pokemon – minus event ones – they will once again receive two in-game diplomas from GAME FREAK for completing the Regional and National Dexs. As with Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver, players also earn a star on their trainer card, signifying the importance of their accomplishment.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete the Pokemon Black and White Pokedex, players must utilize previous games. Namely, Pokemon titles of Generation 3 and Generation 4. Such games are required to obtain version-exclusive Pokemon that are, otherwise, unobtainable. Pokemon needed to complete the Regional Dex are, fortunately, much easier to capture. While the rewards for completing this Pokedex are uninspiring, doing so contributes to the completion of Pokemon Black and White 2's Pokedex.
Pokemon Black & White 2 (Generation 5)
- Regional Pokedex: 300
- National Pokedex: 649
- Unlocking the National Pokedex: Enter the Hall of Fame
Pokemon Black and White 2 introduce a multitude of quality-of-life updates alongside other notable additions. A noteworthy change is the increased number of Pokemon in the Regional Dex. Being a sequel of sorts to Pokemon Black and White offers a significant advantage in overseeing the completion of the National Dex. If players completed the previous game's Pokedex, they must simply exchange Pokemon. If players manage to capture all 649 non-event Pokemon, they will receive numerous rewards fitting for such an endeavor.
For seeing every Unova Pokemon, players will earn a permit to the Nature Preserve where they can find a Shiny Haxorus. Capturing every Unova Pokemon rewards players with an Oval Stone, an item that increases the appearance rate of eggs in the Pokemon Daycare. As is customary, players are granted two in-game diplomas from GAME FREAK: one for completing the Regional Dex and another for the National Dex. In addition, they are given a Shiny Charm, an item that increases the appearance rate of Shiny Pokemon. For once, the awards for completing the Pokedex are more than suitable for such an undertaking.
How To Complete This Pokedex
Completing the Pokemon Black and White 2 Pokedex requires utilizing previous games, although Black and White should be sufficient on their own. Past titles are required to obtain absent version-exclusive Pokemon; fortunately, that number is not too bad in Black and White 2. If players have completed Pokemon Black and White's Pokedex, they can effortlessly exchange Pokemon with the sequels. Regardless, fulfilling such a monotonous endeavor is far more rewarding.
Pokemon X & Y (Generation 6)
- Regional Pokedex: 457
- National Pokedex: 721
- Unlocking the National Pokedex: Enter the Hall of Fame
Pokemon X and Y add 72 new Pokemon, a small amount by comparison to some other generations. That said, it does make completing the Pokedex far more manageable. In addition, Pokemon X and Y's Pokedex can be completed without the need for games of previous generations, making it a much less strenuous process. If players capture all 721 available Pokemon, they will be showered with rewards similar to Black and White 2.
For seeing every Kalos Pokemon, players will earn an Oval Stone, thus, increasing the appearance rate for finding an egg in the Pokemon Daycare. Maintaining the trend, they will also receive two in-game diplomas from GAME FREAK: one for completing the Regional Dex and another for the National Dex. Additionally, players will be granted a Shiny Charm, making the challenging quest for Shiny Pokemon somewhat easier.
Therefore, making the completion of the Pokedex well worth one's time and effort.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete the Pokemon X and Y Pokedex, players must utilize Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. Every Pokemon unavailable in X and Y can be found in Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire through varying means. With a considerable amount of care, completing the Pokemon X and Y Pokedex will be hard but not as difficult as previous games. Thus, making its completion more than worthy of the time and effort.
Pokemon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire (Generation 6)
- Regional Pokedex: 211
- National Pokedex: 721
- Unlocking the National Pokedex: Defeat/capture the super-ancient Pokemon
The Generation 3 remakes – Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire – mark a return to the famed Hoenn region. They feature the original 386 Pokemon of Generation 3 and those introduced ever since, making a total of 721 Pokemon for players to capture. Despite the substantial number of Pokemon, the Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire Pokedex are relatively easy to complete.
If players acquire all 721 Pokemon, they will receive appropriate recompense. For seeing every Hoenn Pokemon, players will earn an Oval Stone, an item that increases the egg appearance rate in the Pokemon Daycare. They will also receive two in-game diplomas from GAME FREAK, which is standard practice at this point.
In addition, players will be given a Shiny Charm, increasing the appearance rate for Shiny Pokemon. Overall, completing the Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire Pokedex grants rewards fitting the deed.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, players must utilize Pokemon X and Y. Many Pokemon are unobtainable in particular versions hence the need for other Generation 6 games. Through some time, effort, and a few playthroughs, players can complete the Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire Pokedex. Overall, making the completion of it well worth the rewards.
Pokemon Sun & Moon (Generation 7)
- Regional Pokedex: 302
- National Pokedex: N/A
Pokemon Sun and Moon introduce 81 new Pokemon, although it does not feature a Pokedex. While this is disappointing in some aspects, it allows for easy completion of the Pokedex. With only 302 Pokemon in the Alola region, players can near effortlessly complete the Regional Dex soon after the story's end. All without a considerable reliance on trading.
If a player manages to capture all 302 Pokemon in Sun and Moon, players will receive few, but appropriate, rewards. Completing the Pokedex earns players a special stamp on their passport and a Shiny Charm, thus, increasing the appearance rate of Shiny Pokemon. Therefore, making Pokemon Sun and Moon the first games to deviate from the diploma reward system.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete the Pokemon Sun and Moon Pokedex, players must simply utilize both games. There are some version-exclusive Pokemon, although most can be acquired in each game. Through some time, effort, and a couple of playthroughs, completing the Pokedex is simple. Overall, Pokemon Sun and Moon boasts one of the easiest Pokedex to complete.
Pokemon Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon (Generation 7)
- Regional Pokedex: 403
- National Pokedex: N/A
Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon introduce numerous quality-of-life updates and additions, including five new Pokemon. While they implement 100 more Pokemon into the Regional Dex, the Pokedex proves to be comparatively easy. Moreover, Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon offer an excellent means of completing future games Pokedex through the use of Ulta Wormholes.
If players obtain all 403 Pokemon, players receive some considerable rewards. Completing the Pokedex earns players a special stamp on their passport and a Shiny Charm, an item that increases the appearance rate of Shiny Pokemon. In addition, players earn a Karate Gi that they can wear. Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon deviate from the diploma reward system, just as their predecessor.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete the Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon Pokedex, players must simply utilize both games. There are some version-exclusive Pokemon, although most can be acquired in each game. Through some time, effort, and a couple of playthroughs, completing the Pokedex is simple. Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon's Pokedex is fairly easy to complete, similar in difficulty to its predecessor.
Pokemon Let’s Go Pikachu! & Let's Go Eevee! (Generation 7)
- Regional Pokedex: 153
- National Pokedex: N/A
GAME FREAK's triumphant return to the Kanto region in Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu! and Let's Go Eevee! brought fans back to the original 151 Pokemon, along with a few special additions. This time, however, when trainers catch all the Pokemon and complete the Pokedex, they are rewarded with the Shiny Charm.
This tool added with the ability to chain wild Pokemon and see their sprites in the overworld makes the Let’s Go series two of the best games for catching shiny Pokemon. Of course, that’s only if trainers are searching for a shiny of the original 151.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu! and Let's Go Eevee!, players must utilize both games, online trade, or Pokemon Home. Each game has version-exclusive Pokemon hence the need for both. However, players can instead use online trade or Pokemon Home to obtain the Pokemon they require. Thus, making the process of completing the Pokedex a simple feat. So much so that Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu! and Let's Go Eevee! likely possesses the easiest Pokedex to complete.
Pokemon Sword & Shield (Generation 8)
- Regional Pokedex: 400
- National Pokedex: N/A
- Isle Of Armor Pokedex: 211
- Crown Tundra Pokedex: 210
With plenty of controversy surrounding the release of Pokemon Sword and Shield and the “Dexit scandal,” many fans were upset with the continuation of no National Dex. Instead, GAME FREAK added a multitude of quality-of-life updates, which fans have been clamoring for. Ultimately, obtaining the 400 Galar Pokemon will net players a certificate and a Shiny Charm.
Fortunately, the Isle of Armor and the Crown Tundra DLC introduce two new Pokedexs for players to complete. Completing the Isle of Armor Dex will earn players a certificate, a Replica Gold Crown, and a Mark Charm, which helps players find Pokemon with secret marks. Completing the Crown Tundra Pokedex rewards players with a certificate, a Replica State Crown, 50 Rare Candies, and 3 Golden Bottle Caps.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete every Pokedex Pokémon Sword and Shield has to offer, players must utilize both games, online trade, or Pokemon Home. Each game has version-exclusive Pokemon hence the need for both. However, players can instead use online trade or Pokemon Home to obtain the Pokemon they require. So, while completing the Pokedex is somewhat challenging, it is comparatively simple in comparison to earlier games.
Pokemon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl (Generation 8)
- Regional Pokedex: 151
- National Pokedex: 493
- Unlocking the National Pokedex: See the first 151 Pokemon in the Sinnoh Dex
The Generation 4 remakes – Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl – reintroduce the venerable Sinnoh region. Keeping true to the originals, these games retain the number of Pokemon in the Regional Dex and National Dex. Although with the aid of modern features, such as online trade and Pokemon Home, completing it is an uncomplicated endeavor.
If all 493 non-event Pokemon are captured, players will earn some fitting rewards. Upon capturing all Pokemon of the Sinnoh Dex, players will earn a Capture Charm, an item that increases the chances of a Critical Capture. Seeing the National Dex to completion grants players an in-game diploma from GAME FREAK and a Shiny Charm, thus, increasing the appearance rate of Shiny Pokemon. Overall, the rewards are far better than those of the original Generation 4 games.
How To Complete This Pokedex
To complete Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, players must utilize both games, online trade, or Pokemon Home. Each game has version-exclusive Pokemon hence the need for both. However, players can instead use online trade or Pokemon Home to obtain the Pokemon they require. Thus, making the process of completing the Pokedex a much easier feat than the original Generation 4 games.
Pokemon Legends: Arceus (Generation 8)
- Regional Pokedex: 242
- National Pokedex: N/A
Pokemon Legends: Arceus turned the concept of completing the Pokedex entirely on its head, transporting players back to a time when it hadn’t even been invented. Their task in Arceus is to research the Pokemon that populate the ancient land of Hisui (which would later become Sinnoh) and fill the first-ever Pokedex by hand.
There are 242 Pokemon to research and catch in this game, which is relatively small compared to the number of Pokemon in the franchise. However, with no National Dex, this keeps the target reachable when players consider how much work they need to put in to finish the Hisui Pokedex. Each entry in the Hisui Pokedex requires trainers to catch and observe Pokemon by completing 10 Research Tasks to log it in the book. Once logged, the Pokemon will officially be recorded in the Pokedex. Do this for all 242 Pokemon, and players will be rewarded with a Shiny Charm.
Those who really want to go the extra mile can aim to 100% of all the research tasks for each entry in the Pokedex. While there isn’t a reward for doing so, it will increase the Shiny for each Pokemon in the region tenfold. On top of gaining the Shiny Charm, that makes for some of the highest odds in a Pokemon game to date.
How To Complete This Pokedex
Each entry has unique research tasks connected to the Pokemon, which players will need to complete in order for Professor Laventon to write the Pokedex entry. This includes catching and evolving the Pokemon, as well as watching them perform certain moves or defeating them in battle. Players needn’t worry about Pokemon that require trading to evolve, as the items to do so are readily available in-game like the Linking Cord.
As players complete these tasks, their Research Level will increase. This pushes players to a higher rank in the Galaxy Expedition Survey Team to access further areas in Hisui and learn more advanced Poke Ball recipes, which will help in the Pokedex effort.
Pokemon Scarlet & Pokemon Violet (Generation 9)
- Regional Pokedex: 400
- National Pokedex: N/A
The Pokedex received a major upgrade in Scarlet and Violet, in that the player is incentivized to fill its 400 volumes by hitting targets to receive a reward. These can be anything from Poke Balls and Evolution Stones to EXP candy. Every Pokemon captured creates an entry, and the reward for completing the Pokedex is a Beast Ball. As Ultra Beasts have yet to appear, the Beast Ball is more of a cosmetic feature than anything. However, there’s always a possibility that some could find their way to Paldea via future 7-star Tera Raids.
Aside from the Beast Ball, trainers will receive a Shiny Charm from Mr. Jacq for their efforts. Director Clavell will then give players a diploma, certifying that they have finished their studies at the Academy.
How To Complete This Pokedex
There are new mechanics in place for gamers to complete the Pokedex in Scarlet and Violet, including the appearance of sprites on the mini-map showing the presence of certain Pokemon, as well as the Pokedex itself handing out hints about their location.
Unlike Arceus, players can only complete the Paldean Pokedex via online connection as some Pokemon require trading to evolve. This can be done locally with friends or with players across the world, but the latter involves a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
Pokemon Scarlet & Violet are on the Nintendo Switch