Lake Trio: How to Catch Azelf

Learn how to catch Azelf, the final member of the Lake Trio, in Pokemon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl. Get tips on its stats, weaknesses, and the best Poké Balls to use.

Alright, let's talk about catching Azelf, the last of the Lake Trio! This little guy is known for hitting hard, so you'll want to be prepared. Azelf has better offensive stats than its siblings, meaning it can dish out some serious damage. It's packing Psychic and Extrasensory for STAB moves, and Imprison, which is a real pain because it stops your Pokémon from using any moves Azelf itself knows. Plus, it can use Nasty Plot to seriously boost its Special Attack. So, definitely bring some Pokémon that can take a hit or two!

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Level: 50
• Type: Psychic
• Recommended Type for Battle: Dark (takes zero damage from Azelf's Psychic attacks, especially after it uses Nasty Plot)
• Recommended Pokémon: Absol, Sneasel line (can learn False Swipe), Mightyena (can learn Yawn)

Strategy:

1. Prepare your team: Your best bet here is to bring a Dark-type Pokémon. Since Azelf's main attacks are Psychic-type, a Dark-type will take no damage, even if Azelf uses Nasty Plot to boost its Special Attack. This lets you focus on weakening Azelf without worrying about getting hit. Pokémon like Absol or Sneasel are great because they can learn False Swipe via TM, which is crucial for catching.
2. Weaken Azelf: Once you encounter Azelf, use False Swipe to bring its HP down to just 1. This is the safest way to ensure you don't accidentally knock it out.
3. Inflict Status: While Azelf is at 1 HP, try to inflict a status condition like paralysis or sleep. Paralysis is good if you anticipate a longer battle, as you can use moves like Thunder Wave early on. Sleep is also effective, and Pokémon like Mightyena can learn Yawn to put Azelf to sleep.
4. Capture Time: With Azelf at 1 HP and under a status condition, it's time to start throwing Poké Balls. Your best options are:
   • Ultra Balls: Always a solid choice.
   • Timer Balls: Excellent if the battle goes on for 10 turns or more.
   • Dusk Balls: Good since you're likely fighting Azelf in a cave.
   • Quick Ball: If you want to try your luck on the very first turn.
   Warning: Avoid using your Master Ball on Azelf. Save it for a truly difficult legendary Pokémon!