Are Alolan Pokemon Rare in Pokemon GO? A Comprehensive Guide
The question of Alolan Pokemon rarity in Pokemon GO is a bit nuanced. While they aren’t as elusive as some Legendary or Mythical creatures, the answer is a conditional “yes.” Initially, Alolan forms were relatively uncommon, primarily appearing in 7 km Eggs obtained from friends’ gifts. Over time, their availability has fluctuated, cycling through different event rotations, research tasks, and even wild spawns during specific seasons. This means their rarity isn’t constant, but rather dependent on current in-game events and the overall Pokemon GO ecosystem.
Understanding Alolan Pokemon in Pokemon GO
Alolan Pokemon are regional variants from the Alola region, featured in Pokemon Sun and Moon. These Pokemon sport unique appearances and often different typings compared to their original Kanto counterparts. In Pokemon GO, they were introduced to add another layer of collectibility and strategic depth.
Factors Influencing Alolan Pokemon Rarity
Several factors influence how frequently you’ll encounter these island-inspired Pokemon:
- Event Availability: Niantic often features specific Pokemon in events. During events focused on Alola or certain types, Alolan Pokemon become significantly more common. Keep an eye on in-game news and announcements to take advantage of these opportunities.
- Egg Availability: The primary method of obtaining Alolan Pokemon in the early days was through 7 km Eggs. The contents of these eggs shift over time, so Alolan Pokemon are not always guaranteed.
- Seasonal Spawns: With the introduction of seasonal spawns, some Alolan forms might appear more frequently during specific seasons or biomes. This encourages exploration and diverse gameplay.
- Research Tasks: Limited-time research tasks, both Special Research and Field Research, can occasionally reward encounters with Alolan Pokemon.
- Raid Battles: Some Alolan forms, like Alolan Raichu and Alolan Marowak, have appeared in raid battles, providing another avenue for obtaining them.
- Shiny Availability: The introduction of Shiny Alolan forms adds another layer of rarity. Even when an Alolan form is relatively common, its shiny variant can be exceptionally rare.
Identifying Currently Rare Alolan Pokemon
Determining which Alolan Pokemon are currently rare requires staying updated with the latest Pokemon GO news. Typically, the less frequently featured forms are considered rarer. This often includes those that haven’t been part of recent events or have limited spawn locations.
Tips for Finding Alolan Pokemon
Even when Alolan Pokemon are considered “rare,” there are strategies you can employ to increase your chances of finding them:
- Stay Active: Playing Pokemon GO regularly increases your chances of encountering event-specific spawns and completing research tasks.
- Monitor In-Game News: Pay close attention to announcements from Niantic regarding upcoming events, research tasks, and egg pools.
- Join Local Communities: Connect with other Pokemon GO players in your area. They can share tips, report sightings, and coordinate raids.
- Utilize Social Media: Follow Pokemon GO-related accounts on social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit. These platforms often provide real-time updates and community-driven information.
- Focus on 7 km Eggs: Even when Alolan Pokemon aren’t guaranteed in 7 km Eggs, hatching them remains a potential source. Make sure to open gifts from friends to obtain these eggs.
The Ever-Changing Landscape of Pokemon GO Rarity
It’s crucial to remember that the rarity of Pokemon in Pokemon GO is dynamic. What is rare today might be common tomorrow, and vice versa. Niantic continuously adjusts spawn rates, event schedules, and research tasks, impacting the availability of different Pokemon. This is part of what keeps the game engaging and encourages players to adapt their strategies. Understanding these dynamics is important and can be explored further through resources like the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/, which studies the impact of games on learning and behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Alolan Pokemon in Pokemon GO
1. What exactly are Alolan Pokemon?
Alolan Pokemon are regional variants of Pokemon originally found in the Kanto region (first generation). They adapted to the unique environment of the Alola region, resulting in different appearances and sometimes different types.
2. How were Alolan Pokemon initially introduced into Pokemon GO?
They were primarily introduced through 7 km Eggs obtained by opening gifts from friends.
3. Are all Alolan Pokemon equally rare?
No, their rarity varies. Some, like Alolan Exeggutor (found in the wild), are relatively common, while others are much rarer, depending on event rotations and egg availability.
4. Can Alolan Pokemon be found in the wild?
Yes, some Alolan forms, like Alolan Rattata, Alolan Raticate, Alolan Exeggutor, and during certain events, are available in the wild.
5. How do I get 7 km Eggs in Pokemon GO?
You get 7 km Eggs by opening gifts from friends in the game. Make sure you have an open egg slot before opening the gift.
6. Are Shiny Alolan Pokemon rare?
Yes, Shiny Alolan Pokemon are generally quite rare. Even if the base Alolan form is relatively common, its shiny counterpart can be difficult to find.
7. Do Community Days affect Alolan Pokemon?
While there haven’t been dedicated Community Days for Alolan forms specifically, some events might feature increased spawns of certain Alolan Pokemon alongside the main event Pokemon.
8. Can Alolan Pokemon be traded?
Yes, Alolan Pokemon can be traded with other players, just like regular Pokemon. Keep in mind the stardust costs associated with trading, especially for new or rare Pokemon.
9. Do Alolan Pokemon have different stats than their Kanto counterparts?
In Pokemon GO, Alolan forms have slightly different stats compared to their Kanto counterparts, reflecting their unique typings and abilities.
10. Are Alolan Pokemon useful in battles?
Some Alolan Pokemon, like Alolan Muk and Alolan Raichu, can be quite useful in battles due to their unique typings and move sets. Their effectiveness depends on the specific battle situation and the team composition.
11. How often does the Pokemon GO egg pool change?
The Pokemon GO egg pool changes regularly, often in conjunction with events or updates. Niantic usually announces these changes through in-game news and social media.
12. What is the best way to stay updated on Alolan Pokemon availability?
The best way is to monitor in-game news, follow Pokemon GO-related accounts on social media, and join local Pokemon GO communities.
13. Can Alolan Pokemon be found in Raids?
Yes, some Alolan forms, such as Alolan Raichu and Alolan Marowak, have appeared in raid battles. Keep an eye out for them during special events.
14. Do Incenses and Lures affect Alolan Pokemon spawns?
Yes, Incenses and Lures can attract Alolan Pokemon, especially during events where they have increased spawn rates.
15. Are Alolan Pokemon region-specific in Pokemon GO?
No, Alolan Pokemon are not region-specific in Pokemon GO. They can be found anywhere in the world, although their spawn rates may vary.