In *Pokémon Legends: Arceus*, one of the most engaging and memorable side quests is Gone Astray in the Mirelands. This quest introduces players to Zeke, a member of the Galaxy Team, who is desperately looking for his lost sister, Wanda. The quest unfolds within the Crimson Mirelands, a treacherous and swampy region filled with aggressive Pokémon and hidden dangers. Unlike many other quests, Gone Astray in the Mirelands tests your observation, map-reading, and exploration skills in a unique way. Successfully completing this request helps you understand the depth of the world-building in the Hisui region and provides rewards that aid your journey further.
How to Start the Quest
The ‘Gone Astray in the Mirelands’ request is part of a recurring questline involving Zeke and his sister. To access this specific mission, you must first complete the earlier quest, Gone Astray in the Fieldlands. Once that mission is done, you can find Zeke again at Galaxy Hall in Jubilife Village. Speak with him to receive Request 58, which begins your search for Wanda in the Crimson Mirelands.
Prerequisites
- Complete Gone Astray in the Fieldlands.
- Unlock Crimson Mirelands by progressing through the main storyline.
- Have a rideable Ursaluna, which is essential to locate Wanda using scent tracking.
These steps ensure you are fully prepared before heading out into the wild. Ursaluna plays a crucial role in this side quest, allowing you to hone in on Wanda’s location through scent trails.
Where to Find Wanda in the Crimson Mirelands
The Crimson Mirelands is a vast and dangerous area with many possible places where Wanda might be. Fortunately, with Ursaluna’s tracking ability, the search becomes manageable. The scent trail starts when you ride Ursaluna around the area his nose will glow when he’s close to Wanda’s trail. Follow the direction in which the blue signals intensify.
Exact Location of Wanda
Wanda is typically found south of the Gapejaw Bog area, near the trees and cliffside. Specifically, you should begin your search west of the Bogbound Camp, then move toward the Gapejaw Bog and Sludge Mound. Once you’re close, Ursaluna will give a stronger reaction, leading you directly to Wanda’s location.
She will be cornered by a wild Pokémon, typically a Hippowdon or Skuntank, and you’ll be required to assist her in escaping. Defeating or scaring off the wild Pokémon will complete that portion of the quest.
Tips for Locating Wanda Faster
- Activate the quest in your logso the general search area is highlighted on your map.
- Use Ursaluna immediatelywhen arriving in the Crimson Mirelands. Don’t waste time exploring without direction.
- Pay attention to the terrain.Wanda is never placed in an inaccessible or extremely dangerous location.
- Be prepared for battle,as aggressive Pokémon are nearby when you find her.
These practical tips can save you a significant amount of time and make the quest less frustrating. While it may seem tedious initially, understanding how Ursaluna’s tracking system works makes this and similar quests much more enjoyable.
What Happens After Rescuing Wanda
Once you’ve dealt with the wild Pokémon and helped Wanda to safety, she’ll thank you for rescuing her once again. You’ll then be prompted to return to Jubilife Village and report back to Zeke in Galaxy Hall. Zeke will express relief and gratitude for finding his sister again.
Quest Rewards
- 3 Star Pieces – valuable items you can sell for a good amount of money.
- Increased affinity with the Galaxy Team.
- Progression of the Gone Astray questline for future requests.
These rewards are especially useful for players looking to upgrade their inventory, buy new items, or save up for crafting resources. The Star Pieces alone are worth thousands of PokéDollars, making this a rewarding side quest in both narrative and gameplay terms.
Why the Gone Astray Quests Matter
The ‘Gone Astray’ series, especially Gone Astray in the Mirelands, highlights several unique aspects ofPokémon Legends: Arceus. Unlike standard fetch or battle quests, these missions emphasize exploration, environment interaction, and mechanical use of in-game tools like Ursaluna. They break the monotony of simply catching Pokémon or grinding through missions, offering a refreshing break with a narrative payoff.
Moreover, these quests build a subtle but strong emotional connection between characters. Zeke and Wanda’s relationship develops throughout the questline, showcasing concern, relief, and a bit of humor. These small stories enhance the immersive quality of the Hisui region and keep players engaged beyond the main storyline.
Challenges in the Mirelands
Crimson Mirelands is home to several aggressive Pokémon, and navigating through it can be difficult, especially at night or during foggy weather. Players may encounter:
- Hippopotas and Hippowdon
- Skuntank
- Tangela
- Carnivine
- Parasect
These Pokémon often attack without warning and can knock you out quickly if unprepared. It’s advised to bring strong Water, Ground, or Psychic-type Pokémon to counter most threats. Stocking up on healing items and status recovery is also a good strategy before entering the area.
Ursaluna’s Tracking System Explained
Ursaluna’s ability to track items and individuals through scent is one of the most underutilized features in the game. When riding Ursaluna, you’ll see blue lines pointing in the direction of the scent. As you follow them, Ursaluna will dig or react when you’re near the target. For this quest, that target is Wanda.
This mechanic encourages players to explore without relying solely on map markers. It brings a more organic feel to exploration, tying in well with the game’s overall theme of ancient, untamed lands and hands-on discovery.
Gone Astray in the Mirelands is an excellent example of how side quests inPokémon Legends: Arceusenhance the world-building, provide meaningful rewards, and push players to use the game’s features in creative ways. Tracking down Wanda in the treacherous terrain of the Crimson Mirelands is not only a test of skill and awareness but also a narrative beat that ties characters together. Whether you’re a completionist or a casual player, this quest is well worth your time and effort. Keep your Ursaluna ready, pay attention to environmental clues, and you’ll find Wanda safe and sound once again.