Exploring the world of Pokémon Legends Arceus introduces players to a variety of missions that go beyond simply catching Pokémon. One of the more intriguing and slightly challenging requests is Gone Astray in the Mirelands. This quest combines exploration, observation, and a little bit of detective work. It not only expands your interaction with the environment but also teaches players how to track individuals using visual clues and context. The Mirelands are vast and filled with mystery, so understanding how to navigate this request is essential for completing your Pokédex and helping the people of Jubilife Village.
Understanding the Gone Astray Request
Gone Astray in the Mirelands is one of the recurring requests in Pokémon Legends Arceus. These requests are optional side missions that typically involve helping residents of the village or other travelers. This specific mission comes from Zeke, a concerned NPC whose sister Wanda has gone missing in the Crimson Mirelands. Zeke is often worried about Wanda, as she has a habit of getting lost during expeditions. This is not the first time she’s gone astray, but the Mirelands pose particular danger with their foggy terrain and aggressive wild Pokémon.
How to Unlock the Quest
To unlock this mission, players must progress far enough into the story to have access to the Crimson Mirelands. Once you’ve unlocked this area and completed certain milestones, Zeke will appear near the Galaxy Hall in Jubilife Village, looking visibly distressed. Speak with him to receive the request titled Gone Astray in the Mirelands. He’ll explain that Wanda has gone missing again, and he fears for her safety.
- You must have access to the Crimson Mirelands.
- Check the Request Board or speak directly to Zeke.
- This request becomes available after completing earlier parts of the main story.
Preparing for the Search
Before setting off to find Wanda, it’s important to prepare accordingly. The Mirelands are filled with swamps, aggressive Pokémon, and confusing terrain. Having the right Pokémon on your team and essential items like potions or smoke bombs can help you stay safe. Additionally, bringing Ursaluna, the ride Pokémon, will make the process much smoother.
Using Ursaluna to Track
Ursaluna has a unique ability to track scents, which is the key to completing this mission. Once you’re in the Crimson Mirelands, mount Ursaluna and activate its tracking mode. The scent trail will be indicated by a wave-like sensor; follow the direction where the waves become more intense and colorful. This will eventually lead you to Wanda’s location.
- Ursaluna is crucial for finding her scent trail.
- Keep checking the scent direction if you lose track.
- Look for visual clues in the environment such as broken paths or footprints.
Wanda’s Location in the Crimson Mirelands
Wanda is typically found in a slightly hidden area of the Mirelands, often surrounded by hostile Pokémon. You may find her near areas such as the Gapejaw Bog or the Sludge Mound, depending on how the game generates her position. When you approach the right area using Ursaluna, the scent will become strong and vibrant, confirming you’re close.
Upon finding her, a brief cutscene or dialogue will initiate. Wanda will express her gratitude and relief. She’ll also acknowledge that she needs to be more careful in the future, but her tone suggests she might get lost again setting the stage for similar future requests.
Rewards for Completing the Mission
After finding Wanda and ensuring she’s safe, return to Zeke in Jubilife Village to complete the mission. He’ll be overjoyed and thank you for your efforts. Though this quest doesn’t provide rare Pokémon or legendary items, it does reward players with items and experience that can help in other tasks.
Possible Rewards
- Experience Candy (S)
- Grit Gravel
- Additional friendship with characters like Zeke and Wanda
While the material rewards are modest, the real value comes from expanding the story and world-building in Pokémon Legends Arceus. Helping the residents makes the Hisui region feel more alive and immersive.
Why These Quests Matter
Gone Astray in the Mirelands may seem like a simple side quest, but it plays an important role in reinforcing exploration mechanics. It teaches players how to use their ride Pokémon beyond transportation and encourages deeper engagement with the environment. Each of the Gone Astray missions that involve finding Wanda in different regions builds on this concept, with increasing difficulty or varying obstacles.
World-Building Through Side Quests
The world of Hisui is vast and mysterious, and side quests like this one help add personal stories to it. Learning about Wanda’s tendencies and Zeke’s concern gives emotional depth to otherwise minor NPCs. The repetition of her getting lost adds a touch of humor and realism, making them memorable characters in your journey.
Tips for Completing Similar Quests
If you enjoy the Gone Astray series of requests, it’s a good idea to apply the same methods to others like it
- Always keep Ursaluna ready when a mission involves tracking.
- Explore with a mix of stealth and power aggressive Pokémon are common in these areas.
- Check your map often and make use of markers to help navigate difficult terrain.
These small additions to your playstyle will not only make the search easier but also prepare you for other exploration-based tasks scattered throughout the game.
Gone Astray in the Mirelands is a well-crafted side quest that goes beyond simple objectives. It challenges the player’s ability to navigate, observe, and track using in-game tools like Ursaluna. It also provides meaningful interaction with NPCs and a deeper appreciation for the world of Pokémon Legends Arceus. Whether you’re a completionist or just looking to experience the world in more detail, helping Zeke and Wanda adds value to your journey through the Hisui region. The quest may be short, but its impact both in gameplay and story lingers long after it’s completed.