Sandgem

Sandgem Town is a small town in the Sinnoh region of the Pokémon video game series. It is best known for housing Professor Rowan’s Pokémon Research Lab, which serves as the starting point for many players’ journeys. The lab is the focal landmark of the town, where trainers receive their first Pokémon and are introduced to the concept of the regional Pokédex.

Geography and layout: The town is compact, consisting of a few houses arranged around the laboratory. It is connected to Route 201, providing access to the broader Sinnoh region. The surrounding area includes lakes and natural scenery typical of early-game exploration, reinforcing Sandgem’s role as an introductory hub rather than a commercial center.

Gameplay significance: In the Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum games, Sandgem Town marks the opening area of the adventure. Players visit Professor Rowan to obtain a starter Pokémon and begin compiling data for the Pokédex. The town’s quiet, residential character mirrors its function as a transitional space between the player’s hometown and the wider Sinnoh region.

Notable features: The primary feature of Sandgem Town is Professor Rowan’s Laboratory, which contains research facilities and acts as the narrative catalyst for the player’s journey. Beyond the lab, the town retains a simple, peaceful atmosphere with limited facilities, underscoring its role as an introductory locale in the storyline.