Are you wondering how to reach the Fortree City Gym and challenge the formidable Winona? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through the entire process, from your last major stop to the gym doors. We’ll cover the best routes, important items to grab, and the Pokémon types that will serve you well against the skilled Fortree City Gym Leader. Whether you’re playing Pokémon Ruby, Pokémon Sapphire, Pokémon Emerald, or even the remakes like LeafGreen Fortree Gym (though Fortree City isn’t in LeafGreen, we’ll discuss its counterparts), this guide has you covered.
Navigating Hoenn can sometimes feel like a puzzle, and the path to Fortree City is no exception. Many trainers find themselves scratching their heads, wondering if they missed a crucial step or a hidden path. This guide aims to demystify the journey, making your quest to earn the Gym Badge as smooth as possible. We’ll break down each segment of your travel, ensuring you don’t get lost or miss out on helpful resources along the way.
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The Journey to Fortree City Begins
Your adventure to Fortree City typically starts after you’ve dealt with the significant events in either Mauville City or the deserts of Route 111. Depending on your game version, the exact preceding events might vary slightly, but the general flow remains consistent. The key is to have access to a Pokémon that knows the move Surf.
Essential Prerequisites
Before setting off, make sure you have the following:
- HM Surf: This is non-negotiable. You’ll need it to navigate the water routes.
- A Strong Team: Ensure your Pokémon are leveled up and have a good mix of types to handle various trainers.
- Potions and Full Heals: The routes leading to Fortree City have trainers and wild Pokémon that can wear down your team.
- Repels (Optional but Recommended): If you want to avoid unnecessary wild Pokémon encounters, bring some Repels.
Your Starting Point: Mauville City
Most players will make their way to Fortree City from Mauville City. After you’ve defeated Wattson, the Electric-type Gym Leader, you gain access to new areas.
Route 110 and the Cycling Road
Your initial path involves heading south from Mauville City onto Route 110. This route is familiar, as you likely traversed it earlier in your journey. You’ll encounter various trainers, and the environment changes as you move south.
- Key Locations on Route 110:
- The entrance to the Contest Hall: If you haven’t visited it, you might want to pop in.
- The entrance to Slateport City: You’ll pass by this area again.
- The entrance to the Cycling Road: This is your main objective.
Accessing the Cycling Road
Route 110 eventually leads to the entrance of the Cycling Road (also known as Route 110’s continuation or Route 117 depending on the exact game and how you view it). This unique route is a long, straight path with distinct lanes for cyclists.
- The Cycling Road Experience:
- It’s a long stretch of road where you’ll race against trainers on bicycles.
- The trainers on the Cycling Road are mostly Bug-type and Flying-type Pokémon users, so having strong Fire or Flying-type Pokémon will be beneficial.
- You’ll need to be proficient in dodging trainers to avoid battles if you’re in a hurry, but battling them is a good way to gain experience.
Moving South from the Cycling Road
Once you reach the southern end of the Cycling Road, you’ll find yourself on Route 105. This is where the water routes begin, and your ability to use Surf becomes critical.
Navigating the Water Routes
The water routes are crucial for reaching Fortree City. You’ll be navigating through several of them.
Route 105
Route 105 is the first major water route you’ll encounter after the Cycling Road. It’s a relatively open area with several small islands and various wild Water-type Pokémon.
- What to expect on Route 105:
- Trainer battles on the islands and from Swimmers in the water.
- Wild Pokémon encounters: Expect to see Pokémon like Tentacool, Wingull, and Wailmer.
- Navigational challenges: You’ll need to chart a course through the islands and open water.
Route 106
Continuing south from Route 105, you’ll enter Route 106. This route is similar to 105, featuring more islands and trainers.
- Trainer Types on Route 106:
- You’ll primarily face Trainers with Water-type Pokémon.
- Having Grass or Electric-type Pokémon will be advantageous here.
Route 107
After Route 106, you’ll enter Route 107. This route is a bit more linear, but still requires careful navigation.
- Key Features of Route 107:
- More opportunities to battle Swimmers and Trainers.
- Wild Pokémon that are typical for Hoenn’s oceanic routes.
Route 108
Route 108 is a significant water route because it contains the remains of a sunken ship. This ship, the SS. Tundra (or SS. Cactus in some localizations), offers unique items and can be a point of interest.
- The Shipwreck:
- You can enter the shipwreck to explore and find items. Look for a hidden passage or a break in the hull.
- Inside, you might find valuable TMs or useful items.
- Be prepared for trainer battles within the ship as well.
Route 109 and the Beach
Your journey through the water routes culminates at Route 109. This is a vibrant beach area, a stark contrast to the open water.
- The Beach Area:
- You’ll encounter Trainers on the beach itself.
- The presence of the beach signifies you’re nearing a town.
Arrival at Lilycove City
After traversing the water routes, you will arrive at Lilycove City. This is a significant hub in Hoenn, known for its department store and Pokémon Contests.
- Lilycove City Activities:
- Department Store: Stock up on items like Potions, Super Potions, Antidotes, and Poké Balls. You can also buy TMs here.
- Contest Hall: If you’re interested in Pokémon Contests, this is the place to be.
- Team Aqua/Magma Hideout (depending on game version): In some versions, you might need to deal with the villainous team here before proceeding.
Preparing for Fortree City from Lilycove
Lilycove City is your last major stop before heading to Fortree City. Use this time to heal your Pokémon, buy any necessary supplies, and ensure your team is ready.
- Recommended Items to Buy:
- X Attack, X Defend, X Speed: Can be helpful for tough battles.
- Full Heals: Essential for status conditions.
- Revives: Always useful for bringing fainted Pokémon back into the fight.
- Potions/Super Potions: Replenish your health.
The Path to Fortree City from Lilycove
From Lilycove City, your next destination is Fortree City. This involves heading west and navigating through a new set of routes.
Route 121: The Savannah Route
Your journey west from Lilycove City takes you onto Route 121. This route is characterized by tall grass and a distinct savannah-like appearance.
- Route 121 Features:
- Wild Pokémon: You’ll encounter a variety of Pokémon here, including some new ones you might not have seen before. Be mindful of Pokémon that resist your current team.
- Trainers: Several trainers will be along the path, offering more battling experience.
- Scenic Views: The route offers expansive views of the Hoenn region.
Route 123: A Shortcut or Detour?
Route 121 connects to Route 123. Depending on your progression, you might pass through Route 123 directly or use it as a detour. It’s a more densely forested area.
- Route 123 Characteristics:
- Often features trainers with a mix of Pokémon types.
- Can be a bit more challenging due to the variety of Pokémon.
Entering Fortree City
After navigating Route 121 (and potentially Route 123), you will finally arrive at Fortree City. This city is known for its unique treehouse architecture and its Gym.
- Fortree City Highlights:
- Poké Center: Heal your Pokémon immediately.
- Poké Mart: Restock on any supplies.
- The Gym: Your ultimate destination!
The Fortree City Gym and Winona
Fortree City is home to the fifth Gym in Hoenn, and its leader is Winona, a master of Flying-type Pokémon. This is a significant challenge, especially if your team isn’t prepared.
Fathoming Winona’s Strategy
Winona’s team is primarily composed of Flying-type Pokémon. This means Pokémon with Electric, Ice, or Rock-type moves will be highly effective.
Weaknesses of Flying-Type Pokémon
- Electric-type: Deals super-effective damage against Flying types.
- Ice-type: Also deals super-effective damage.
- Rock-type: Can be effective, especially against certain Flying-types.
- Bug-type Pokémon: While not super effective against all of Winona’s Pokémon, some Bug-type Pokémon can hold their own, particularly against Grass-type moves that some Flying-types might know. However, Flying-types are resistant to Bug-type moves, so this isn’t ideal. Focus on the super-effective types.
Pokémon to Consider for the Battle
- Electric-types: Raichu, Magneton, Plusle, Minun, Manectric.
- Ice-types: Glalie, Walrein, Sealeo (if you can evolve a Spheal). Pokémon that learn Ice Beam through TMs are also excellent choices.
- Rock-types: Geodude, Nosepass.
The Gym Puzzle and Trainers
The Fortree City Gym is known for its unique layout. It’s not a straightforward path.
Gym Layout and Puzzles
The Fortree City Gym is famous for its treehouse structure and the presence of switches that need to be activated to open doors.
- Switch Mechanics:
- You’ll encounter stationary trainers in the Gym.
- There are switches scattered throughout the Gym.
- Activating a switch will open a specific door, allowing you to progress.
- However, activating a switch will also cause other doors to close and might respawn trainers or change the layout slightly.
- You need to find the correct sequence of switches to reach Winona.
Notable Gym Trainers
Before you face Winona, you’ll need to battle several trainers within the Gym.
- Youngster: Usually has a single Pokémon.
- Bug Catcher: Often uses Bug-type Pokémon, which are vulnerable to Flying and Fire. However, in Fortree Gym, these trainers might be pre-battle obstacles.
- Bird Keeper: Will have various Flying-type Pokémon.
- Swimmer: May appear in certain water-themed sections of the Gym if applicable to your game version.
Table: Typical Gym Trainer Encounters (Example)
| Trainer Class | Pokémon Example | Level Range | Weaknesses to Exploit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youngster | Tailow | 20-22 | Electric, Rock, Ice |
| Bird Keeper | Swablu | 23-25 | Electric, Rock, Ice |
| Bird Keeper | Pelipper | 25-27 | Electric, Rock |
| Swimmer | Tentacool | 22-24 | Electric, Grass |
(Note: Specific trainer Pokémon and levels can vary slightly between Pokémon Ruby, Pokémon Sapphire, and Pokémon Emerald.)
Facing Winona
Once you’ve navigated the Gym’s puzzles and defeated the trainers, you’ll face the Gym Leader, Winona.
Winona’s Team (General Overview)
Winona’s ace Pokémon is typically her Altaria. She has a team that showcases the power and diversity of Flying-type Pokémon.
- Her Pokémon often include:
- Swablu: A dual Flying/Dragon type in later generations, but initially just Flying.
- Taillow/Swellow: Fast Flying-types.
- Pelipper: A Water/Flying type, which might surprise you.
- Tropius: A Grass/Flying type, offering a different challenge.
- Altaria: Her strongest Pokémon, a Dragon/Flying type.
Strategies for Defeating Winona
- Lead with a strong Electric or Ice attacker. This can quickly take down one or two of her Pokémon.
- Be wary of Tropius. Its Grass typing means it can use powerful Grass-type attacks, which are super effective against Rock and Ground types. Your Electric or Ice attackers should be prepared for this.
- Altaria’s Dragon typing: While primarily Flying, Altaria’s Dragon typing adds a weakness to Ice and Dragon-type moves. Ice moves are your best bet here.
- Watch out for status conditions: Some of Winona’s Pokémon might have moves that can inflict Paralysis or Sleep.
Winning the Gym Battle
Upon defeating Winona, you will earn the Gym Badge and a Technical Machine (TM).
- The Gym Badge: This badge increases the Attack or Special Attack stat of your Pokémon and allows you to use the move Fly outside of battle.
- The TM: The TM you receive is usually TM40 Aerial Ace, a reliable Flying-type attack.
Alternative Routes and Considerations
While the path from Mauville City through the water routes is the most common, there might be slight variations or earlier access points depending on the specific game and your choices.
The Verdanturf Town Connection
In some versions of Pokémon Emerald Fortree Gym progression, you might pass through Verdanturf Town before reaching Fortree City.
- From Rustboro City: If you go west from Rustboro City, you can reach Verdanturf Town.
- Route 117: This route connects Verdanturf Town to the eastern side of Route 110, which eventually leads to the Cycling Road and Mauville City.
- Battle with Roxanne: After defeating Roxanne in Rustboro City, you gain access to Route 117.
If you’re coming from Verdanturf Town, you’ll likely head east along Route 117 towards Route 110, then proceed as described earlier towards Mauville City and the water routes.
Direct Paths?
Generally, there isn’t a direct overland route from Rustboro City to Fortree City without going through the water routes or heading back east towards Mauville. The Hoenn region’s geography necessitates using Surf to connect these areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I get to Fortree City without the HM Surf?
A: No, you absolutely need the HM Surf to navigate the water routes that connect the areas leading to Fortree City.
Q2: What types of Pokémon are best against Winona in the Fortree City Gym?
A: Electric, Ice, and Rock-type Pokémon are most effective against Winona’s Flying-type Pokémon.
Q3: Which Pokémon are good choices for battling Winona?
A: Pokémon like Manectric (Electric), Glalie (Ice), or any Pokémon that can learn Ice Beam or Thunderbolt are excellent choices.
Q4: What is the primary challenge in the Fortree City Gym?
A: The Fortree City Gym features a puzzle involving switches that open and close doors, as well as trainers who utilize Flying-type Pokémon.
Q5: Where do I find the HM Surf?
A: The HM Surf is typically obtained in the Safari Zone or given to you by an NPC after certain plot events, often related to a S.S. ship or a specific character. You’ll need it to progress through the water routes.
Q6: I’m playing LeafGreen. Where is Fortree City?
A: Fortree City and its Gym Leader Winona are exclusive to the Hoenn region games (Pokémon Ruby, Pokémon Sapphire, and Pokémon Emerald). LeafGreen is set in the Kanto region and does not feature Fortree City or Winona.
Q7: What kind of Pokémon does Winona use?
A: Winona is a Gym Leader who specializes in Flying-type Pokémon. Her team often includes Pokémon like Swablu, Taillow, Pelipper, Tropius, and her signature Altaria.
Q8: Is there a shortcut to Fortree City?
A: While there are different routes you can take through the water, the progression generally requires you to travel through Lilycove City and the western water routes. There isn’t a significant shortcut that bypasses the need for Surf.
Q9: What TM does Winona give?
A: Winona typically awards you with TM40 Aerial Ace, a reliable Flying-type attack that never misses.
Q10: How many badges do I have before challenging Winona?
A: Winona is the fifth Gym Leader in Hoenn, so you should have earned four badges before arriving at Fortree City.
This comprehensive guide should equip you with all the knowledge needed to successfully reach and conquer the Fortree City Gym. Happy training!