Is Alolan a Shiny Pokemon? Unveiling the Truth About Alolan Forms and Shinies
Yes, Alolan Pokémon can indeed be shiny. The Alolan forms are variants of existing Pokémon that adapted to the unique environment of the Alola region. Just like their original counterparts, these Alolan forms have a chance to appear as shiny, boasting a different color palette than their standard appearance.
Understanding Alolan Forms
What are Alolan Forms?
Alolan forms are variations of Pokémon that originated in the Alola region (featured in Pokémon Sun and Moon). Due to the different climate and ecosystem, certain Pokémon adapted differently compared to those found in other regions. This resulted in changes in their appearance, type, and sometimes even their abilities.
For example, Alolan Sandshrew is an Ice/Steel-type Pokémon, a stark contrast to its original Ground-type form. This adaptation allowed it to thrive in the snowy mountains of Alola. Another notable example is Alolan Exeggutor, a Grass/Dragon-type that towers over its original form, resembling a tall tropical palm tree.
The Shiny Factor
How Shinies Work
Shiny Pokémon are rare variants of existing Pokémon that feature a different color scheme. They are highly sought after by collectors and trainers due to their rarity. The chance of encountering a shiny Pokémon in most Pokémon games is typically around 1 in 4096 (though this can be improved with certain methods and items).
Alolan Forms and Shinies Together
The key takeaway is that Alolan forms and shinies are separate characteristics. A Pokémon can be both an Alolan form and a shiny. So, you could encounter a shiny Alolan Sandshrew, which would be a shiny variant of the Ice/Steel type, not the regular Ground type.
Shiny Hunting Alolan Pokémon
Where to Find Them
Finding shiny Alolan Pokémon depends on the specific game you are playing:
- Pokémon Go: Alolan forms appear in various events, raids, or through research tasks. Keep an eye out for these opportunities, as they often increase the chances of finding a shiny.
- Pokémon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon: Alolan forms can be found throughout the Alola region. Using methods like SOS chaining can increase the chances of encountering a shiny version.
- Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!: Alolan forms are obtained by trading with NPCs in the game after connecting to Pokémon Go. Shinies are possible through regular encounters or by using the catch combo method.
Tips for Shiny Hunting
- Patience is Key: Shiny hunting can be a long and arduous process. Be prepared to spend a lot of time searching for your desired shiny.
- Shiny Charm: In some games, obtaining the Shiny Charm increases the odds of encountering a shiny Pokémon.
- Research Events: Participating in special events can improve the likelihood of finding shiny Pokémon.
- SOS Chaining (Sun/Moon/Ultra Sun/Ultra Moon): When a Pokémon calls for help, the chances of a shiny appearing increase with each successful call.
- Catch Combo (Let’s Go): Catching the same Pokémon repeatedly increases the spawn rate of rare Pokémon and improves shiny odds.
FAQs: All About Alolan Forms and Shinies
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the relationship between Alolan forms and shiny Pokémon:
1. Are all Alolan Pokémon available as shinies in Pokémon Go?
Not all Alolan Pokémon have had their shiny forms released in Pokémon Go. However, many have been made available through events and special promotions. Keep an eye on official announcements for updates.
2. Can Alolan starters be shiny in Pokémon Go?
No, as of the current date, the Alolan starters (Rowlet, Litten, and Popplio) do not have shiny variants available in Pokémon Go.
3. Why are some Alolan Pokémon different types than their original forms?
The different environment in the Alola region caused Pokémon to adapt, resulting in type changes. For example, Alolan Sandshrew became Ice/Steel to survive in snowy areas.
4. Does the shiny charm work for Alolan forms in Pokémon Sun and Moon?
Yes, the shiny charm increases the chances of encountering shiny Alolan forms in Pokémon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon.
5. Are the shiny rates different for Alolan forms compared to regular Pokémon?
The base shiny rate is usually the same, but certain methods (like SOS chaining) can affect the odds for Alolan forms.
6. Can you breed Alolan forms in Pokémon games?
Yes, by breeding Pokémon in Pokémon games, you can potentially hatch Alolan forms, and there’s a chance they could be shiny. Using an Everstone on an Alolan form Pokémon ensures that the offspring will also be the Alolan form.
7. What is the prettiest Alolan Pokémon shiny?
While subjective, shiny Alolan Ninetales is often cited as one of the most visually appealing, with its elegant icy blue coloration.
8. Why did Ash leave his Alolan Pokémon behind in the anime?
Ash left his Alolan Pokémon with Professor Kukui to ensure they remained in their natural environment and could continue to thrive in Alola.
9. Is Alolan Pikachu a thing?
Pikachu does not have an Alolan form, but it can evolve into Alolan Raichu in Pokémon Sun and Moon if leveled up in the Alola region.
10. What are some of the rarest shinies in Pokémon Go related to Alolan forms?
While not directly an Alolan form, shiny Alolan Exeggutor has been considered relatively rare due to its limited availability.
11. Do shinies evolve into shinies?
Yes, if you evolve a shiny Pokémon, its evolution will also be shiny. A shiny Alolan Vulpix will evolve into a shiny Alolan Ninetales.
12. Can two shinies breed a shiny?
Two shiny parents do not guarantee a shiny offspring. The odds of hatching a shiny are the same regardless of whether the parents are shiny or not.
13. What color is a shiny Alolan Grimer?
A shiny Alolan Grimer is a vibrant green color, a stark contrast to its original dark purple hue.
14. Can you trade shiny Alolan forms in Pokémon Home?
Yes, you can trade shiny Alolan forms in Pokémon Home as long as they meet the trading requirements.
15. Where can I learn more about Pokémon and educational gaming?
For more insights into gaming and its educational applications, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The Games Learning Society explores the intersection of games, learning, and social impact, offering valuable resources for educators and researchers alike.