From Bulbapedia, the community-driven Pokémon encyclopedia.
A Ruin Maniac (Japanese: いせきマニア Ruin Maniac) is a type of Pokémon Trainer that debuted in the Generation III games. They are often depicted as stereotypical explorers, shown in Generations III and VI as old men in safari outfits and pith helmets, generally having the appearance of an archaeologist in the field. In Generations IV and VIII, they are younger and wear fedoras and jackets.
They can usually be seen near any archaeological sites containing rare Pokémon or events. One such Trainer in Generations IV and VIII proposes a contest between the player and himself to determine which is faster: the player catching 26 Unown, or the Ruin Maniac digging through the Maniac Tunnel.
In Generations III and VI, they use Ground- and Rock-type Pokémon, whereas in Generations IV and VIII, they use Steel- and Rock-type Pokémon. They often use Geodude, Bronzor, Sandshrew, and Sandslash.
Ruin Maniac Dante may randomly be recruited as an Apprentice at the Battle Tower. Here, players may customize his team and can eventually either team up with or battle against him.
A Ruin Maniac named Dusty/Nobuo is seen battling Hex Maniac Valerie in the Battle Dome. While it is unknown who won, what is known is Dusty at some point lost a match, eliminating him from the tournament.
In Clobbering Claydol, a Ruin Maniac was briefly seen roaming the Battle Frontier as Looker rode on his jetpack.
In Find Munchlax!!, a Ruin Maniac is one of the three Trainers searching for Munchlax. He uses his "ruin excavation skills" to scatter bait and dig a trap.
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