Among the many side quests inPokémon Legends Arceus, one that stands out for its simplicity yet emotional charm is Gone Astray in the Highlands. This quest revolves around finding a lost person in the Highlands area, with a touch of mystery and the need for keen observation. Players who enjoy exploring every corner of the map will find this mission a satisfying break from battling Pokémon and completing Pokédex entries. Understanding how this quest works, where to find the missing character, and what rewards you’ll receive can help make the experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Overview of Gone Astray in the Highlands
Quest Origin and Requirements
Gone Astray in the Highlands is one of several quests in the Gone Astray series inPokémon Legends Arceus. To unlock it, players must progress far enough in the main storyline to have access to Coronet Highlands. Additionally, players need to complete the previous quests in the series, such as Gone Astray…in the Coastlands. Once these are done, the quest becomes available through Zeke in Jubilife Village.
Meet Zeke
Zeke is a member of the Galaxy Team Security Corps and is the brother of Wanda, the character who keeps getting lost. You can find Zeke near the Galaxy Hall in Jubilife Village. He is usually standing worriedly, hoping that someone will help him find Wanda once again.
Quest Details and Objectives
What You Need to Do
After accepting the quest from Zeke, your main goal is to find Wanda, who has gone missing in the Coronet Highlands. The in-game description will give a vague idea of her last known location, but you will not be given an exact map marker. This is where your skills in exploration and deduction come into play.
Bring Ursaluna for Tracking
Just like the previous Gone Astray quests, you’ll need to use Ursaluna, a special Ride Pokémon, to track Wanda’s scent. Summon Ursaluna in the Highlands and begin sniffing around. The blue scent trail will guide you toward her location. This mechanic is unique to this side quest series and gives it a fun, investigative feel.
Where to Find Wanda in the Highlands
Location Guide
Wanda can be found near the cliffs of Lonely Spring in Coronet Highlands. More specifically, she is located at the edge of a cliff above the Fabled Spring area. If you are having trouble locating her, try starting from the Summit Camp and head southeast toward the area above the Fabled Spring.
Tips to Reach the Spot
- Make sure to bring Sneasler for climbing cliffs.
- Watch out for aggressive Pokémon in the area, like Golbat and Gible.
- Follow Ursaluna’s scent trail closely, even if it leads you over rocky paths or up steep terrain.
What Happens When You Find Her
Once you locate Wanda, she will express her usual mix of gratitude and embarrassment. She has once again found herself in a dangerous situation and is thankful that someone came to her rescue. After the short dialogue, the quest log will update, and you can return to Zeke in Jubilife Village to complete the quest.
Rewards and Outcomes
What You Receive
Upon returning to Jubilife Village and speaking with Zeke, you will complete the quest and receive your reward. The reward for completing Gone Astray in the Highlands is typically
- 3 Star Pieces – These can be sold for a good amount of Pokédollars, making the quest financially worthwhile.
Story Continuation
Completing this quest also brings you closer to finishing the Gone Astray storyline. There are several entries in this mini-series, and each quest continues the story of Wanda’s habit of getting lost and her brother’s concern for her. Players interested in side story arcs will find these missions entertaining and rewarding.
Additional Notes and Strategy
Prepare for the Highlands Terrain
Coronet Highlands is one of the more challenging areas in Pokémon Legends Arceus due to its vertical layout, strong wild Pokémon, and weather changes. To safely navigate and complete the quest
- Bring Pokémon with type advantages against Rock, Ground, and Flying types.
- Stock up on healing items and Poké Balls in case of unexpected battles.
- Use ride Pokémon like Braviary and Sneasler to bypass obstacles quickly.
Optional Exploration
While you are in the Highlands searching for Wanda, consider using this time to explore nearby caves, collect ore, and capture rare Pokémon such as Mismagius, Electivire, or Nosepass. The region offers plenty of resources for Pokédex completion and item farming.
Why This Quest Matters
Deeper World Building
Even though Gone Astray in the Highlands is a side quest, it contributes to the emotional depth of the game. Zeke and Wanda’s relationship adds a human touch to the world of Hisui, showing how family members worry and care for each other in a dangerous environment.
Unique Tracking Mechanic
The use of Ursaluna to follow scent trails is one of the few times players engage with this specific feature. It’s a refreshing break from combat-heavy missions and reminds players that not all quests are about fighting or catching Pokémon. Sometimes, it’s about saving someone in need.
Encourages Exploration
This quest nudges players toward less-traveled areas of the Highlands. Many players miss sections of the map if they only follow main story objectives. By chasing after Wanda, you may discover hidden Alpha Pokémon, collectible materials, or scenic views that make the game world feel more alive.
Gone Astray in the Highlands may seem like a small side quest at first glance, but it brings with it charm, emotion, and exploration. From Zeke’s constant worry to Wanda’s habit of getting herself into trouble, the questline offers a refreshing and grounded narrative amidst the fantastical elements ofPokémon Legends Arceus. Using Ursaluna to track scent trails makes this quest mechanically distinct, while the setting in the Coronet Highlands adds challenge and beauty. Whether you’re aiming to 100% complete the game or simply enjoy side missions with a bit of heart, this quest is one you shouldn’t miss.