Once you have defeated the Elite Four and become the Champion of the Hoenn region, the adventure is far from over. The post-game content in Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire offers a wealth of new challenges, opportunities for exploration, and the chance to catch some of the most powerful Pokémon in the game.
Battle Frontier Introduction
The most significant addition to the post-game is the Battle Frontier. This massive complex, located west of Lilycove City, is a collection of various battle facilities, each with its own unique rules and challenges. You'll need to test your battling skills against increasingly difficult trainers and earn Battle Points (BP) to purchase rare items and TMs.
Falkner's Gym (Post-Game Challenge)
While not officially part of the main story, some trainers find satisfaction in revisiting Gym Leaders to re-challenge them. While they don't offer new items or significant rewards, it's a good way to test your team's strength and earn experience points.
The Legendary Pokémon Quests
The post-game is where you can truly begin your quest to capture the legendary Pokémon of Hoenn. This includes:
- Regirock, Regice, and Registeel: These ancient titans are hidden within specific temples, requiring you to solve puzzles and meet certain conditions to awaken them.
- Latios and Latias: These Eon Pokémon will begin roaming the Hoenn region. You'll need to track them down using the PokéNav's "Encounter" feature.
- Groudon and Kyogre: Depending on your version, you may have already encountered one of these legendary titans. The other can be found in a new area unlocked post-game, often requiring the use of Surf.
- Rayquaza: This Sky High Pokémon resides atop the Sky Pillar, a challenging dungeon that requires careful navigation and battling.
Trading and Completing the Pokédex
With access to more Pokémon and the ability to travel to different areas, the post-game is the perfect time to focus on completing your Pokédex. Trading with friends who have the opposite version (Ruby or Sapphire) is essential for obtaining version-exclusive Pokémon. Furthermore, the expanded Safari Zone and various routes offer new encounters.
Secret Bases
You can continue to customize and expand your Secret Base, inviting friends to visit and even engaging in friendly battles. Discovering new Secret Base decorations and finding the best locations for your base adds a fun, personal touch to the post-game experience.