How to catch Darkrai in Pokémon Legends: Arceus

Darkrai has been a fan favorite for years in the Pokémon franchise and the Pitch-Black Pokémon is making a return with Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Here are all the steps required for players to capture the dream-eating Mythical Dark-type.

You’ll need to roll credits first, but a save file for BDSP also unlocks a special mission which allows you to catch Darkrai. A save file for SwSh likewise opens up a post-game Shaymin quest. Neither are required for dex completion. pic.twitter.com/zMvYDDOJuX

— PLDH (@PLDHnet) January 28, 2022

How to catch Darkrai in Pokémon Legends: Arceus

In order to even find Darkrai, players must first finish the main story of Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Players must also have a previous save file of either Brilliant Diamond or Shining Pearl. For players who do not own a game, a simple fix is to borrow the Brilliant Diamond or Shining Pearl from another player, start a save file, and give the game back. Players do not need to own the actual game, just a save file.

Once you’ve met the two conditions, you can make your way to the Galaxy team building to start the quest. Simply walk into Professor Laventon’s office and interact with the blackboard. On the last page, you will find a quest called “The Darksome Nightmare.” Accepting this quest will put you on your way to capturing Darkrai in Pokémon Legends: Arceus.

Once Cael from the Diamond clan talks to you, the quest will begin. You must then head to the Coronet Highlands during the nighttime. Head over to the eastern area, the Clamberclaw Cliffs, to encounter Darkrai. The encounter will begin as soon as you get close to Darkrai, so make sure to save the game right before entering its threat range. This will give you several chances to catch Darkrai.

Just like Shaymin, who is another Pokémon received through save data bonuses, Darkrai will be at level 70. Its special move, Dark Void will inflict Pokémon with the Drowsy status condition. The uniqueness of this ability really stands out in a double battle, where it can affect more than one Pokémon. After catching the Dark-type Mythical Pokémon, it will immediately appear as part of your caught Pokémon.