One of Pokémon's greatest joys has always been experiencing it with friends. In Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, between trading exclusives, pitting your teams against each other or exploring the Grand Underground, players have options when it comes to multiplayer.
As expected from a faithful remake, many of these options remain present, though ILCA's made a few pleasant changes. So, if you're looking to know what you can do with multiplayer, here's everything you need to know.
Read More: Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl Walkthrough: All Guides in One Place
How To Trade
To trade locally with friends, you'll need to defeat Oreburgh Gym's leader, Roark, first. As the first gym leader, it won't take long to reach him. Once done, head upstairs to a Pokémon Centre for local play, or downstairs for global play. You can read more about that here.
How To Battle
Initiating battles is almost identical to initiating trades, so you'll need to enter a Global or Local room first. Once you've arrived, you can approach other trainers directly or call them by pressing Y. Select battle and if the other trainer accepts your challenge, you'll begin fighting.
How To Explore The Grand Underground
There's plenty to do in the Grand Underground, though you'll need to reach Eterna City first before accessing it. Next to the Pokémon Centre, there's a house where an elderly man gives you an Explorer Kit. Once done, you can explore together with friends, both locally and online.
You've got six Grand Underground regions to explore across Sinnoh, letting you set up secret bases and go exploring. Friends can join you in this segment, and if you're looking to find out more, check out our full Grand Underground guide.
That's all there is to know about multiplayer in Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl! Check out our guides on evolution, evolution stones, and legendary Pokémon to expand your Pokédex!