Johto to Kanto progression guide
Follow the main Johto story, then open the second region and its late-game routes.
Spoiler notice: This guide discusses story progression or late-game content.
Nintendo DS remakes; version-exclusive encounters differ between HeartGold and SoulSilver.
| Order | Leader | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Falkner | Flying |
| 2 | Bugsy | Bug |
| 3 | Whitney | Normal |
| 4 | Morty | Ghost |
| 5 | Chuck | Fighting |
| 6 | Jasmine | Steel |
| 7 | Pryce | Ice |
| 8 | Clair | Dragon |
Build the first three badges
Falkner, Bugsy and Whitney lead the early route. Finish the Slowpoke Well incident before leaving Azalea, then travel through Ilex Forest to Goldenrod. Whitney’s Normal team can punish repeated direct attacks; plan for Miltank’s sustained pressure rather than bringing only a single undertrained counter.
Ecruteak and the western coast
Morty’s Ghost Gym comes before the main western trip. Investigate Olivine’s lighthouse, travel to Cianwood for medicine and Chuck’s Gym, then return to help Jasmine. This is a useful point to train a dependable Water Pokémon for the region’s sea travel.
Mahogany, Goldenrod and Blackthorn
Investigate the Lake of Rage and the Rocket hideout around the Mahogany arc. Team Rocket’s Goldenrod takeover must also be resolved as the story develops. Clair’s badge has a follow-up at the Dragon’s Den; defeating her is not the last interaction required there.
The Kimono Girls and first League
The Kimono Girl sequence and the mascot legendary encounter are part of the late Johto story. HeartGold and SoulSilver direct you to different legendary locations. Complete those events before following the eastern route toward Victory Road and the first League challenge.
Kanto and Mt. Silver
After becoming Champion, the S.S. Aqua opens the Kanto chapter. The Power Plant incident is important for regional travel and progression. Earn the Kanto badges, then speak with Professor Oak for access to Mt. Silver. Red is a separate high-level challenge; save and prepare before climbing to him.
Check the edition note above before following a route. Suggested preparation and tactics are editorial recommendations; alternative teams and routes can also work.