Roark

Roark combines his work in Oreburgh Mine with leading the city’s Gym. He is Byron’s son, and their shared interest in tough Pokémon becomes a friendly family rivalry.

• Story: Meet him inside Oreburgh Mine before returning to the Gym for the first badge.
• In the game: First Gym battle in Platinum: Geodude Lv. 12; Onix Lv. 12; Cranidos Lv. 14. Water and Grass moves are strong here. Cranidos hits hard physically; avoid giving it free turns to attack.
• Gym puzzle: The sloping walkways let you challenge the trainers or take a route around them.
• Rewards: Win the Coal Badge and TM76 Stealth Rock. The badge allows Rock Smash outside battle once you have the HM.

Story spoilers.

Pokémon Platinum · Nintendo DS · 2008 · Original Nintendo DS release; not Brilliant Diamond or Shining Pearl. · Picture: Original Nintendo DS-era Sinnoh Gym Leader sprite.