From the official FAQ

SoulGold FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Answers below are paraphrases of the official SoulGold FAQ. Read the source page for pickup tables and the full list.

Is there a Kanto region?

No. Official FAQ: “No kanto, pure Johto focus.”

What are the shiny odds?

1/256. Eggs show blue dots if shiny. There are no shiny locks. NPC trades can be shiny.

How do I get other starters?

Goldenrod Casino Gachapon, behind the rewards counter. 3,000 coins minimum. More coins reduce duplicate chance. Coin Case is in Goldenrod Underground.

When do I get the Mega Ring?

After the Team Rocket takeover in Goldenrod. Mega evolve by pressing Start on the move select screen while holding the matching stone.

What is Candy Jar?

After the first gym, Elm’s aide gives it with the egg. It stores extra battle EXP and converts it to Exp Candy.

When does DexNav unlock?

After obtaining the first set of Poké Balls. Unregister a species from the DexNav screen.

Are saves compatible between versions?

Official FAQ: always.

Do HMs need to be taught?

Owning them is enough. Fly also requires a Pokémon that can learn it.

How do Hidden Grottos work?

Suspicious paths behind trees. Daily reset, or Beckoning Bell. Dedicated guide: 60% Pokémon with Hidden Ability and two 31 IVs.

More official answers

  • Whitney’s gym: Radio Tower first-floor quiz.
  • Tree after Gym 3: Squirtbottle from Goldenrod Flower Shop.
  • Day cycle: Morning 06:00–10:00, Day 10:00–19:00, Evening 19:00–20:00, Night 20:00–06:00.
  • Strength: Olivine Cafe. Waterfall: Ice Path.
  • Tutor moves: Olivine top-right house, 44,444. Egg moves: Blackthorn, 88,888.
  • Fossils: smash rocks in Ruins of Alph.
  • No main-game type or BST changes. Some extra late-game moves exist (example given: Attack Order Beedrill).

Bug reports: community page. Patch: download.