Can I Evolve Rockruff into Midnight Form in Ultra Sun? A Comprehensive Guide
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The short answer is yes, you can evolve Rockruff into Midnight Form Lycanroc in Pokémon Ultra Sun, but with a significant caveat. This evolution is only possible under specific conditions, primarily linked to the game version and the time of day the leveling occurs. Let’s break down how to obtain this elusive form and address some common misconceptions surrounding Rockruff’s evolutions.
Understanding Rockruff’s Evolutions
Rockruff, the puppy Pokémon, is unique due to its branched evolutions, leading to three distinct Lycanroc forms: Midday, Midnight, and Dusk. Which form Rockruff evolves into depends on several factors, primarily the game version and the time of day when it levels up. Unlike some Pokémon whose evolutions are triggered by items or friendship levels, Rockruff’s evolution is tied to the in-game clock, making it a bit more intricate.
The Time-Sensitive Evolution
The key to obtaining Midnight Form Lycanroc lies in leveling up Rockruff at night (typically between 6:00 PM and 5:59 AM, according to the 3DS clock) in Pokémon Moon or Ultra Moon. However, in Pokémon Ultra Sun, evolving Rockruff at night will not result in a Midnight Form. Instead, you will obtain the Midday Form Lycanroc when leveling up during the day.
This is a critical distinction: Midnight Form Lycanroc cannot be directly obtained through normal leveling in Pokémon Ultra Sun.
The Dusk Form Exception
The third evolution, Dusk Form Lycanroc, adds another layer of complexity. This form is exclusive to Rockruff with the Own Tempo ability and evolves when leveled up during the evening hours (5:00 PM to 5:59 PM), a very specific window. This evolution applies to both Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, provided the Rockruff possesses the Own Tempo ability.
Since evolving a Rockruff into Midnight Form is impossible in Ultra Sun, there is no method to obtain this form of Lycanroc through the conventional leveling mechanic in this version of the game.
Alternative Methods to Obtain Midnight Form Lycanroc in Ultra Sun
Since you can’t evolve Rockruff directly into Midnight Form in Ultra Sun, what are your options for acquiring this coveted Pokémon? There are a few viable methods:
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Trading: This is perhaps the most straightforward solution. If you have a friend with Pokémon Moon or Ultra Moon, they can evolve Rockruff into Midnight Form and trade it to you in Ultra Sun. This method bypasses the version-specific evolution restrictions.
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Pokémon Bank and Transporter: If you previously obtained a Midnight Form Lycanroc in Pokémon Moon or Ultra Moon and stored it in Pokémon Bank, you can transfer it to your Ultra Sun game. This requires a paid subscription to Pokémon Bank and the Pokémon Transporter application.
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GTS (Global Trade System): While the GTS has its risks (beware of hacked Pokémon), it can be a way to acquire a Midnight Form Lycanroc in Ultra Sun. Offer a desirable Pokémon in exchange, and you might find someone willing to trade.
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Breeding (with limitations): If you managed to get hold of a Midnight Form Lycanroc, either by trading or transferring, you can breed it. The offspring will be Rockruff, and in turn, evolve to another Lycanroc based on the game version and time of the day.
Why is Midnight Form Unavailable through Leveling in Ultra Sun?
The version-specific evolution mechanic is a deliberate design choice by the game developers, adding a unique element of gameplay and encouraging interaction between players with different game versions. This exclusivity makes each version feel distinct and rewarding for those who explore its specific features.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Rockruff and its evolutions:
1. What level does Rockruff evolve?
Rockruff evolves starting at level 25, provided the appropriate conditions are met (time of day and, for Dusk Form, the Own Tempo ability).
2. How do I get a Rockruff with Own Tempo?
Rockruff with Own Tempo was originally distributed through a special event. If you missed the event, your best bet is to trade with someone who has one, or breed it, to get Rockruff with Own Tempo.
3. What time does Rockruff need to evolve into Dusk Form?
Rockruff with Own Tempo must be leveled up between 5:00 PM and 5:59 PM (17:00 and 17:59) in-game time to evolve into Dusk Form Lycanroc.
4. Can I change Lycanroc’s form after it evolves?
No, once Rockruff evolves into a specific Lycanroc form, its form cannot be changed.
5. Which Lycanroc form is considered the best?
Many players consider Dusk Form Lycanroc to be the best due to its Tough Claws ability, which increases the power of contact moves by 30%. However, the best form depends on your team composition and battle strategy.
6. Is Shiny Dusk Lycanroc extremely rare?
Yes, obtaining a Shiny Dusk Lycanroc is exceptionally rare, combining the odds of encountering a Shiny Pokémon with the specific requirements for Dusk Form evolution.
7. Does the time on my 3DS need to be accurate for Rockruff to evolve correctly?
Yes, the time on your 3DS must be accurate, as Rockruff’s evolution depends on the system’s internal clock. Make sure to adjust the time if necessary in the 3DS settings.
8. Can I get all three Lycanroc forms in one game?
Yes, by trading, using Pokémon Bank, or breeding, you can obtain all three Lycanroc forms in Pokémon Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon.
9. What happens if I level up Own Tempo Rockruff outside of the 5:00 PM – 5:59 PM window?
If you level up an Own Tempo Rockruff outside of the specified evening window, it will not evolve. You’ll need to wait until the next evening to try again.
10. Is there a difference in stats between the three Lycanroc forms?
Yes, there are slight differences in stats between the three Lycanroc forms. Midday Form has higher Speed, Midnight Form has higher Attack and Special Defense, and Dusk Form has a balance of both forms.
11. Does the weather in the game affect Rockruff’s evolution?
No, the weather in the game does not affect Rockruff’s evolution. It solely depends on the time of day and, in the case of Dusk Form, the Rockruff’s ability.
12. Can I find Own Tempo Rockruff in the wild?
No, Own Tempo Rockruff was not available to catch in the wild during the event distribution. As a result, you can only obtain it through event distribution, breeding or trading.
13. Will the offspring of an Own Tempo Lycanroc always have Own Tempo?
No, the offspring of an Own Tempo Lycanroc has a chance of inheriting the ability, but it’s not guaranteed. Using an Everstone on the parent with Own Tempo can increase the likelihood of the offspring inheriting the ability.
14. Are there any specific locations where Rockruff is more likely to have Own Tempo?
No, the location where you obtain Rockruff does not influence whether it has the Own Tempo ability.
15. Can I evolve Rockruff into Dusk Form in Pokémon Sun or Moon (without Ultra)?
No, Dusk Form Lycanroc can only be obtained in Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, and only with Rockruff possessing the Own Tempo ability.
Final Thoughts
While obtaining Midnight Form Lycanroc in Pokémon Ultra Sun through direct evolution is impossible, several alternative methods, like trading and transferring, provide avenues to acquire this unique Pokémon. Understanding the nuances of Rockruff’s evolutions and utilizing available resources can help you complete your collection and enhance your Pokémon gaming experience.
For more insights into game-based learning and the educational aspects of gaming, visit the GamesLearningSociety.org website. Video games, including Pokémon, can offer valuable learning opportunities and foster critical thinking skills. Check out the Games Learning Society website to delve deeper into the world of educational gaming.