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Where to Get Defog in Pokémon Platinum: Your Definitive Guide

So, you’re braving the wilds of Sinnoh in Pokémon Platinum and finding yourself blinded by thick fog? You’re likely asking the burning question: Where do I get Defog? The answer is straightforward: you get the HM05 Defog from a NPC in the Great Marsh in Pastoria City. Now, let’s delve into the specifics and cover everything you need to know about obtaining and using this essential Hidden Machine.

Obtaining Defog: A Step-by-Step Guide

Securing Defog isn’t as simple as strolling into a Poke Mart. It requires navigating the Great Marsh, a unique area filled with elusive Pokémon and a ticketing system. Here’s the breakdown:

Head to Pastoria City: Pastoria City is located on the eastern side of Sinnoh. You’ll likely arrive here after obtaining the Cobble Badge from Veilstone City.
Enter the Great Marsh: The Great Marsh is a large safari zone-like area located in Pastoria City. You’ll need to pay an entrance fee of 500 Pokédollars to enter.
Navigate to Area 3: This is crucial. The NPC who provides Defog is located specifically in Area 3 of the Great Marsh. To get there, use the tram system within the Great Marsh. Note the area numbers above each viewing platform.
Find the Ace Trainer: Once in Area 3, search for an Ace Trainer standing near the center of the area. He’s hard to miss, usually looking up at the sky with a wistful expression.
Talk to the Ace Trainer: Initiate a conversation with the Ace Trainer. He’ll lament about the heavy fog and then, recognizing your helpful nature (and perhaps your impressive Pokémon team), will give you HM05 Defog.

Congratulations! You’ve now obtained Defog. However, simply possessing the HM isn’t enough to use it.

Using Defog: Essential Requirements

Before you can clear away the fog, you need to meet a specific requirement:

Obtain the Fen Badge: You must defeat Crasher Wake, the Gym Leader of Pastoria City, and earn the Fen Badge. This badge grants you the ability to use Defog outside of battle.

Once you have the Fen Badge, you can teach Defog to a compatible Pokémon.

Teaching Defog: Choosing the Right Pokémon

Not all Pokémon can learn Defog. Choose wisely based on your team composition and available move slots. Some commonly used Pokémon that can learn Defog include:

Staraptor: A popular choice due to its availability early in the game and its dual-typing (Normal/Flying).
Bibarel: A versatile HM user that can learn several other Hidden Machines.
Tropius: Found in the Great Marsh, it’s a unique choice with Grass/Flying typing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Defog in Pokémon Platinum

Here are 12 frequently asked questions, offering further insights and solutions related to Defog in Pokémon Platinum.

1. Can Defog be used in battle?

Yes, Defog can be used in battle, but its effect is different from clearing fog in the overworld. In battle, Defog lowers the target’s evasion stat by one stage and removes entry hazards (such as Stealth Rock, Spikes, Toxic Spikes, and Sticky Web) from both sides of the field. It can also remove Light Screen and Reflect.

2. Is Defog a good move to keep on my Pokémon?

This depends on your battling style. In competitive battling, Defog is highly valued for its ability to clear entry hazards. However, for the main game, it’s often replaced with a more powerful offensive move once the fog is no longer an obstacle.

3. Are there any other ways to clear fog besides Defog?

No, Defog is the only method to clear the fog in affected areas of the overworld in Pokémon Platinum.

4. Where are the areas where Defog is needed?

The most notable area where Defog is required is on Route 210, specifically the northern part. This route is vital for reaching Celestic Town and progressing the storyline. Defog is also helpful in Mt. Coronet, making navigation easier.

5. Can I delete Defog from my Pokémon?

Yes, you can delete Defog just like any other move. However, remember that HM moves cannot be relearned at a Move Reminder. Be certain you no longer need the move before deleting it.

6. Can I use Defog more than once outside of battle?

Yes, Defog can be used an unlimited number of times outside of battle once you have the Fen Badge and a Pokémon that knows the move.

7. What if I accidentally defeat the Ace Trainer in the Great Marsh?

This isn’t possible. The Ace Trainer who gives you Defog isn’t a trainer battle encounter. You simply talk to him, and he provides the HM.

8. Is Defog required to complete the game?

Yes, Defog is essential for completing the main storyline, as it allows you to progress through Route 210 and reach Celestic Town.

9. Can any Pokémon learn Defog through TM or move tutor in later generations?

While Defog is an HM in Platinum, it has been available as a TM in some later generations. Refer to the specific game’s move lists and TM locations to confirm. Move tutors generally don’t teach HM moves.

10. What are the best strategies for navigating the Great Marsh to get Defog quickly?

Focus on efficiently using the tram system to reach Area 3. Familiarize yourself with the layout of the Great Marsh beforehand to minimize backtracking.

11. Does the weather affect the availability of the Ace Trainer in the Great Marsh?

No, the Ace Trainer is always present in Area 3 of the Great Marsh regardless of the weather or time of day.

12. Are there any glitches associated with Defog in Pokémon Platinum?

While glitches can exist in any game, there are no widely known or game-breaking glitches specifically tied to the Defog HM in Pokémon Platinum. The most common issues are related to the emulator being used (if you aren’t playing the game on a Nintendo DS or 3DS console).

Obtaining and using Defog is a crucial step in your Pokémon Platinum journey. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the foggy areas of Sinnoh and continue your adventure!