Overview
The Dowsing Machine is a key tool in Pokemon Pokopia used to locate buried items throughout the world. It requires a Pokemon with the Search specialty to function. When active, it emits an audio signal that intensifies as you approach buried treasure, making it much easier to find fossils, Lost Relics, CDs, Mystery Slates, and other rare items.
How to Obtain
The Dowsing Machine is obtained by completing Hitmonchan's "Check What's Up There" request in the Withered Wasteland. To unlock Hitmonchan, build the Exercise Resting Spot habitat (1 Punching Bag + 1 Seat). After completing the request, a glowing Poke Ball appears on the ground nearby. Press A to pick it up and add the Dowsing Machine to your inventory.
How to Use
Get a Search-specialty Pokemon: You need a Pokemon with the Search specialty following you. Early options include Pidgey (available in the Withered Wasteland via Elevated Tall Grass habitat) and Drilbur (also in the Withered Wasteland).
Equip the Dowsing Machine: Open your inventory and equip the Dowsing Machine.
Press and hold A: While the Dowsing Machine is equipped and a Search Pokemon is following you, press and hold A to activate it. You will hear a beeping noise.
Follow the signal: The beeping gets faster and louder as you approach a buried item. Your follower Pokemon also gives directional hints ("below here," "above here," "getting warmer").
Dig it up: When you find the Buried Treasure block (a block with golden light), use Rock Smash to break it open and collect the item inside.
What You Can Find
Item Type | Description | Where Found |
|---|---|---|
Fossils | 22 fossils for the Museum Exhibition Stands | All five regions |
Lost Relics (Small) | Displayable collectibles themed around previous Pokemon games | All five regions |
Lost Relics (Large) | Furniture items themed around specific Pokemon | All five regions |
CDs | Music tracks for DJ Rotom to play | All five regions |
Mystery Slates | Collectible tablets that unlock Unown encounters | Specific locations |
Materials | Rare crafting materials not available on the surface | Varies by region |
Search-Specialty Pokemon
The following Pokemon have the Search specialty and can activate the Dowsing Machine:
Pidgey, Pidgeotto, Pidgeot
Drilbur, Excadrill
Vespiquen
Nidoqueen, Nidoking
Stoutland
Tips
Buried Treasure blocks respawn daily (after the 5:00 AM reset). Visit fossil-hunting areas once per day for consistent progress.
The Dowsing Machine works in all regions, including Dream Islands. Bring a Search Pokemon to Dream Islands for extra finds.
Some buried spots contain Lost Relics that may need Water Gun before Rock Smash to prevent the relic from breaking during extraction.
The audio signal is the primary indicator. Turn up your volume or use headphones for the best fossil-hunting experience.