How to Evolve Rockruff into Dusk Lycanroc: A Comprehensive Guide

Evolving Rockruff into the coveted Dusk Lycanroc is a rite of passage for any serious Pokémon trainer. This guide will give you the precise steps and insider tips needed to add this unique form to your team. The secret lies in a specific Ability and perfect timing. First, you need a Rockruff with the Own Tempo Ability. Then, level it up to at least level 25 during the dusk hours, typically between 5:00 PM and 5:59 PM, though the exact window can vary slightly depending on the specific game.

Understanding the Dusk Form

Dusk Lycanroc stands apart from its Midday and Midnight counterparts, boasting a distinctive orange hue and the powerful Tough Claws Ability. This ability boosts the power of all contact moves by 30%, making Dusk Lycanroc a formidable physical attacker. This unique combination of aesthetics and battle prowess makes it a highly sought-after Pokémon.

Key Steps to Evolving Dusk Lycanroc

Step 1: Obtain a Rockruff with Own Tempo

This is the most critical step. A Rockruff with either Keen Eye or Vital Spirit will never evolve into Dusk Lycanroc, no matter the time of day. Own Tempo Rockruffs are event-exclusive or can be obtained through breeding an Own Tempo Rockruff.

Step 2: Timing is Everything

The evolution must occur during the dusk hours. The exact time window may vary across different games, but it generally falls within the 5:00 PM to 5:59 PM range. In some games, the window might be slightly different, such as 7:00 PM to 7:59 PM or 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Consult your game-specific guide to be certain. This requires checking your game’s internal clock and ensuring it’s correctly synchronized. In Pokémon Sword and Shield, leveling up Rockruff between 7 PM and 8 PM will trigger the Dusk evolution.

Step 3: Level Up Rockruff

Once you have an Own Tempo Rockruff and it’s the correct time, level it up to level 25 or higher. You can do this through battles, Rare Candies, or Exp. Candies. As long as the level up occurs during dusk, your Rockruff will evolve into Dusk Lycanroc.

Tips and Tricks

• Check the Time: Regularly check the in-game time to ensure you level up during the dusk hours. Setting your console’s clock to the correct time zone is essential.

• Exp. Candies: Exp. Candies are an efficient way to level up Rockruff quickly, especially when you’re close to the evolution level.

• Location, Location, Location: In some games, the location where you level up Rockruff matters. Certain areas might not properly register the time of day. Try evolving it in a central location in the game.

Dusk Lycanroc in Battle

Dusk Lycanroc’s Tough Claws Ability makes it a powerhouse with contact moves. Consider moves like Stone Edge, Accelerock, Crunch, and Swords Dance to maximize its potential. With a respectable attack stat and high speed, it can outspeed and OHKO many opponents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the three evolutions of Rockruff?

Rockruff has three distinct evolutions: Midday Lycanroc, Midnight Lycanroc, and Dusk Lycanroc. Each form boasts unique stats, abilities, and appearances.

2. How do I get a Rockruff with Own Tempo?

Own Tempo Rockruffs are usually obtained through special events or as gifts. Another way is to breed a Rockruff with the Own Tempo ability. The offspring will have a chance of inheriting the Own Tempo ability.

3. What time does Rockruff evolve into Dusk Lycanroc?

Generally, the evolution window is between 5:00 PM and 5:59 PM in most games. However, this can vary, so consult your game’s specific guide. In Pokémon Sword and Shield, it’s 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

4. Can I evolve Rockruff into Dusk Lycanroc in Pokémon GO?

Unfortunately, Dusk Lycanroc is not currently available in Pokémon GO. However, Niantic may introduce this evolution in a future update.

5. Is Dusk Lycanroc stronger than Midday or Midnight Lycanroc?

While the “best” form is subjective and depends on your team composition, Dusk Lycanroc is often considered superior due to its Tough Claws Ability, which boosts the power of contact moves.

6. What if my Rockruff isn’t evolving at the right time?

Ensure your Rockruff has the Own Tempo Ability. Double-check your game’s time settings, and make sure you are leveling up during the designated dusk hours.

7. Can I breed for a Rockruff with Own Tempo?

Yes, you can. If you breed a Rockruff that has the Own Tempo ability, the baby Rockruff will have a chance of inheriting the Own Tempo ability. No need to be holding everstones.

8. What are the best moves for Dusk Lycanroc?

Effective movesets include Stone Edge, Accelerock, Crunch, Swords Dance, and Close Combat. Focus on maximizing its physical attack potential and taking advantage of the Tough Claws Ability.

9. Why is Dusk Lycanroc considered the rarest form?

Dusk Lycanroc is rarer because it requires both the specific Own Tempo Ability and evolution during a narrow time window. This makes it more challenging to obtain compared to Midday and Midnight forms.

10. Can I change the Ability of my Rockruff to Own Tempo?

No, you cannot change Rockruff’s Ability to Own Tempo using items like Ability Capsules or Patches. It must be naturally born with it or obtained through an event.

11. Does the location where I level up Rockruff matter?

In some games, the location can impact the evolution. Try evolving Rockruff in a central location within the game if you’re experiencing issues.

12. Is Ash’s Lycanroc a Dusk Form?

Yes, Ash’s Lycanroc from the Pokémon anime is a Dusk Form. This further popularizes the form and makes it a favorite among fans.

13. What do I do if I missed the Dusk evolution window?

If you miss the window, simply wait until the next dusk and try again. Make sure your Rockruff is at least level 25 and level it up during the dusk hours.

14. Can I get Dusk Lycanroc in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?

Yes, you can obtain Dusk Lycanroc in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. The process is the same: acquire a Rockruff with the Own Tempo Ability and level it up to level 25 or higher during the evening hours (between day and night).

15. Why won’t my Rockruff evolve into Midnight Form?

Rockruff can only evolve into Midnight Lycanroc in games where the day-night cycle is implemented. Typically, this occurs in Pokemon Moon and Ultra Moon when leveled up at night above level 25. The game must be Pokémon Moon or Ultra Moon, and it must be nighttime in the game.

Beyond the Game: Exploring Learning Through Play

The intricacies of evolving Rockruff into Dusk Lycanroc highlight how video games can provide engaging learning experiences. The process involves understanding specific conditions, timing, and strategic planning – skills applicable far beyond the Pokémon world. For those interested in exploring the educational potential of games, consider visiting the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The GamesLearningSociety.org is dedicated to researching and promoting the use of games for learning and development. This link serves as a bridge between the fun of gaming and the power of education.

Mastering the art of evolving Rockruff into Dusk Lycanroc is more than just a game achievement; it’s a testament to your dedication, patience, and understanding of the Pokémon universe. Happy training!