

If you’re playing Pokémon FireRed & LeafGreen on Nintendo Switch and looking to catch Articuno, you’re in luck. This Legendary Bird is available during the main story and does not require post-game unlocks. However, you will need the right HM before you can reach it.
Articuno is found deep inside the Seafoam Islands. To reach Articuno in Pokémon FireRed & LeafGreen, you’ll need:
HM03 Surf
HM04 Strength
Head to the Seafoam Islands, located between Fuchsia City and Cinnabar Island. Use Surf to enter the cave system. Inside, you’ll encounter strong currents that block progress. This is where Strength comes in.
You must push specific boulders down holes in the cave floors to redirect the water currents. Once the currents are stopped on the lower levels, you can safely navigate to Articuno’s chamber.
Read More: How to Get Umbreon in Pokémon FireRed LeafGreen: Nintendo Switch
Articuno appears at Level 50.
Before initiating the battle:
Save your game.
Bring Ultra Balls.
Consider using Sleep or Paralysis to improve catch odds.
Articuno does not respawn if defeated, so you only get one opportunity per save file.
Read More: How to Get Dratini in Pokémon FireRed LeafGreen: Nintendo Switch
Catching Articuno in Pokémon FireRed & LeafGreen on Nintendo Switch is a classic Kanto moment — just make sure you solve the Seafoam Islands puzzle first.
If you enjoyed this content, consider checking out more from Connor or any of the other TGH writing staff! You can follow Connor on X and check out any one of our TGH TouTube channels, like Dead Unlocked!
Players must be 21 years of age or older or reach the minimum age for gambling in their respective state and located in jurisdictions where online gambling is legal. Please play responsibly. Bet with your head, not over it. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, and wants help, call or visit: (a) the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey at 1-800-Gambler or www.800gambler.org; or (b) Gamblers Anonymous at 855-2-CALL-GA or www.gamblersanonymous.org.