Where is the Sapphire in FireRed? The Definitive Guide
The Sapphire, a crucial gem in Pokémon FireRed, isn’t simply lying around waiting to be picked up. You’ll find it within the depths of Icefall Cave on Four Island, part of the Sevii Islands. Specifically, it’s guarded by a Rocket Grunt who, predictably, isn’t keen on handing it over. Prepare for a battle to claim your prize!
Navigating the Hunt for the Sapphire
Let’s break down the Sapphire acquisition process step-by-step:
Unlock the Sevii Islands: First things first, you need to have completed the main storyline by defeating the Elite Four and becoming the Pokémon League Champion. After this, talk to Bill at the Cerulean Cape and he will ask for your help with connecting two machines. Upon helping Bill with his machine, he will give you the Rainbow Pass.
Travel to One Island: Head to Vermillion City and hop aboard the ship. The Rainbow Pass obtained from Bill will allow you to access the Sevii Islands. Start by sailing to One Island.
Complete the Mt. Ember Quest: On One Island, you need to assist Celio at the Pokémon Network Center. He’ll need a Ruby to fix the Network Machine. The Ruby is found at the summit of Mt. Ember. You will have to battle Team Rocket members to obtain the Ruby.
Head to Four Island: With the Ruby secured and the Network Machine at least partially operational, it’s time to set sail for Four Island.
Enter Icefall Cave: Icefall Cave is located on Four Island. It’s a slippery, icy dungeon filled with challenging puzzles and Pokémon. Be sure to have HM07 (Waterfall) and HM03 (Surf) on your team. Be ready for Ice-type Pokémon.
Navigate Icefall Cave: This cave requires strategic use of Ice Tiles to slide across the icy floors. Solve the puzzles to progress deeper into the cave. You’ll need to navigate several floors, pushing boulders into holes to create pathways.
Find the Rocket Grunt: Deep within Icefall Cave, you’ll encounter a Team Rocket Grunt guarding the Sapphire. Prepare for a battle! This Grunt is usually packing Pokémon around Level 40, so a well-balanced team is essential.
Defeat the Rocket Grunt and Obtain the Sapphire: Once you defeat the Rocket Grunt, they will relinquish the Sapphire. Take this precious gem back to Celio on One Island.
Deliver the Sapphire to Celio: Return to One Island and present the Sapphire to Celio. This will complete the quest and allow you to trade with Pokémon from Ruby and Sapphire versions.
FAQs: Your Sapphire-Hunting Questions Answered
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Sapphire in Pokémon FireRed, answered with expert insight:
1. Why do I need the Sapphire?
The Sapphire is crucial for enabling Pokémon trading between FireRed/LeafGreen and Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald. Without it, you won’t be able to complete your Pokédex with Pokémon exclusive to the Hoenn region.
2. Is it possible to get the Sapphire before beating the Elite Four?
No, it is not possible. The Sevii Islands become accessible only after you defeat the Elite Four and become the Pokémon League Champion. The Rainbow Pass can only be obtained after talking with Bill, which only occurs after the Elite Four is defeated.
3. What HMs do I need to get the Sapphire?
You’ll absolutely need Surf (HM03) to travel to the Sevii Islands and navigate waterways within Icefall Cave, and Waterfall (HM07) to ascend waterfalls in the cave to reach the Rocket Grunt.
4. Are there any strong Pokémon to catch in Icefall Cave?
Yes! Icefall Cave is a great place to catch Water-type and Ice-type Pokémon. Notable catches include Seel, Dewgong, and Jynx. These can be valuable additions to your team, especially if you’re building a diverse roster.
5. What level should my Pokémon be before tackling Icefall Cave?
Ideally, your Pokémon should be around Level 40-50 before venturing into Icefall Cave. The cave itself contains Pokemon around the level 30-40 range. The Rocket Grunt’s Pokémon will be around Level 40, so having appropriately leveled Pokémon is crucial for a smooth experience.
6. Can I skip getting the Ruby and go straight for the Sapphire?
Unfortunately, no. The game requires you to obtain the Ruby first on Mt. Ember and give it to Celio before you can progress further in the Sevii Islands storyline and access Four Island to pursue the Sapphire.
7. What happens if I lose to the Rocket Grunt guarding the Sapphire?
If you lose, you’ll simply be returned to the last Pokémon Center you visited. You can then return to Icefall Cave and challenge the Rocket Grunt again. The Sapphire will still be there waiting for you.
8. Is there anything else to do on the Sevii Islands besides getting the Ruby and Sapphire?
Absolutely! The Sevii Islands offer a variety of side quests, battles, and opportunities to catch rare Pokémon. You can explore different islands, battle trainers, and uncover secrets that add depth to the FireRed experience.
9. I’m stuck on the Ice Tile puzzles in Icefall Cave. Any tips?
Patience is key! The Ice Tile puzzles require careful planning. Visualize your path before moving. Remember that you’ll slide until you hit an obstacle. Consult a map or online guide if you’re really stuck, but try to solve them yourself first for a rewarding experience.
10. Do I need to beat the Elite Four again after getting the Sapphire to trade with Ruby/Sapphire?
No, you only need to beat the Elite Four once to unlock the Sevii Islands and the ability to pursue the Ruby and Sapphire. Once you’ve given both gems to Celio, the trading function will be enabled permanently.
11. Can I get multiple Sapphires in FireRed?
No, the Sapphire is a one-time item. Once you’ve obtained it and given it to Celio, it’s gone. There’s no way to acquire additional Sapphires within the game.
12. I gave the Ruby to Celio, but he won’t accept the Sapphire. What am I doing wrong?
Make sure you have progressed far enough in the Sevii Island quest line after delivering the Ruby. You need to have spoken to certain NPCs on other islands (such as Bill’s friend on Two Island) before the game will recognize that you should give the Sapphire to Celio. Continue exploring the islands, talking to people, and advancing the storyline.
Final Thoughts
Finding the Sapphire in Pokémon FireRed is a rewarding challenge that unlocks a significant feature. With careful planning, the right HMs, and a strong team, you’ll be able to navigate Icefall Cave, defeat the Rocket Grunt, and claim your prize. Happy hunting!
Leave a Reply