The most frequently asked questions about Pokémon Black 2 and White 2.
The game
Do I need to have played Black and White?
It isn’t essential, but the story makes much more sense if you know Black and White: it takes place two years later, with the same characters. Our Black and White guide will get you back up to speed.
How many Pokémon are in the Pokédex?
The regional Pokédex includes 301 Pokémon, from every generation. See An expanded regional Pokédex.
Does the game work on 3DS?
Yes, the DS cartridge works on the 3DS and 2DS, in 2D.
The adventure
Who are the Gym Leaders?
Cheren (Normal), Roxie (Poison), Burgh (Bug), Elesa (Electric), Clay (Ground), Skyla (Flying), Drayden (Dragon) and Marlon (Water). See the walkthrough summary.
Who is the League Champion?
Iris, a Dragon-type Pokémon specialist. The Elite Four consists of Shauntal, Marshal, Grimsley and Caitlin. See The Pokémon League.
Who is the rival?
Hugh, the hero’s childhood friend, who is chasing Team Plasma. See Hugh: the rival.
After the League
How do I unlock Challenge Mode?
Beat the League once in Black 2. In White 2, it is Easy Mode that unlocks; the other version’s mode is obtained through the Unova Link.
How do I get to the Nature Sanctuary?
See every Pokémon in the regional Pokédex, talk to Professor Juniper in Nuvema Town to get the Permit, then head to the Mistralton Cargo Service.
How do I get Black Kyurem or White Kyurem?
Catch Kyurem at Giant Chasm and Zekrom or Reshiram at Dragonspiral Tower after the League, then fuse them using the DNA Splicers. See Legendary Pokémon.
Where can I find Regirock, Regice and Registeel?
In the Underground Ruins, at the end of Clay Tunnel, after the League. Regirock is common to both versions; the Iron Key (Black 2) or the Iceberg Key (White 2) opens the next Regi.
Where can I battle Cynthia?
In Caitlin’s villa in Undella Town, once a day in spring and summer.
Connectivity
Can you still play online?
No: the Nintendo DS online services shut down in 2014. Local trades and battles still work.
How do I transfer my Pokémon to recent games?
On a 3DS, with Poké Transporter to Pokémon Bank, then Pokémon HOME. Pokémon Bank is announced to close on February 26, 2027.
