What Does Yamask Become? Unraveling the Evolution of a Ghostly Pokémon

Yamask, the Ghost-type Pokémon introduced in Generation V, has a unique evolutionary path that differs depending on its region of origin. A regular Unovan Yamask evolves into Cofagrigus starting at level 34, while a Galarian Yamask, introduced in Pokémon Sword and Shield, evolves into the Ground/Ghost-type Runerigus under specific conditions. This article will explore the evolution process of both forms of Yamask, providing a comprehensive guide for trainers looking to complete their Pokédex.

Understanding the Two Forms of Yamask

Before diving into the evolution mechanics, it’s crucial to understand the difference between the two forms of Yamask:

• Unovan Yamask: This is the original Yamask, first appearing in the Unova region. It’s a pure Ghost-type and carries a mask that is said to be the face it had when it was human.
• Galarian Yamask: This is a regional variant found in the Galar region. It’s a dual-type Ground/Ghost Pokémon and carries a stone tablet instead of a mask.

How Unovan Yamask Evolves into Cofagrigus

The evolution of Unovan Yamask is straightforward: simply raise it to level 34. Once it reaches this level, it will automatically evolve into Cofagrigus, a sarcophagus-like Pokémon known for its high defense and special attack stats. Cofagrigus is a powerful Ghost-type addition to any team and is particularly effective in battles requiring strategic defense.

Strategies for Leveling Up Your Unovan Yamask

• Battle Often: Engage in battles against other trainers and wild Pokémon to gain experience points.
• Use Exp. Share: The Exp. Share item distributes experience points to all Pokémon in your party, even those that didn’t participate in the battle.
• Rare Candies: These items instantly raise a Pokémon’s level, but use them sparingly as they can affect stat growth.

How Galarian Yamask Evolves into Runerigus

Evolving Galarian Yamask into Runerigus is a more complex process that involves specific conditions:

1. Take Damage: The Galarian Yamask must take at least 49 HP in damage from opposing Pokémon attacks. This damage can be accumulated across multiple battles, but it must be damage sustained after you catch the Yamask. Damage taken in the catch battle does not count.
2. Avoid Fainting: Crucially, the Galarian Yamask cannot faint after taking the 49 HP damage. If it faints at any point before the evolution is triggered, the damage counter resets. Healing items can be used to keep it alive.
3. Travel to Dusty Bowl: With the damaged but conscious Galarian Yamask in your party, travel to the Dusty Bowl area of the Wild Area in Pokémon Sword and Shield.
4. Pass Under the Stone Arch: In Dusty Bowl, locate the large stone arch that dominates the landscape. Walk underneath this arch with your damaged Galarian Yamask. This action will trigger the evolution into Runerigus.

Tips for Evolving Galarian Yamask

• Monitor Damage: Keep track of how much damage your Galarian Yamask has taken. Using weak wild Pokemon to damage it is a good way to ensure it only takes as much damage as you need it to.
• Heal Strategically: Use Potions or other healing items to prevent fainting while ensuring the Yamask has taken sufficient damage.
• Plan Your Route: Map out the Dusty Bowl area to quickly locate the stone arch and avoid unnecessary battles that could lead to fainting.

Runerigus vs. Cofagrigus: Which is Better?

Both Runerigus and Cofagrigus are formidable Pokémon with unique strengths and weaknesses. While Cofagrigus boasts higher defenses and special attack, Runerigus offers a unique typing and movepool. The “better” Pokémon ultimately depends on your team composition and battling strategy.

The Games Learning Society and resources from GamesLearningSociety.org can help you plan team compositions, battle strategies, and find resources to help you master the world of Pokemon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Yamask Evolution

1. Can damage taken during the initial encounter with Yamask count towards the 49 HP threshold?

No, only damage taken after catching the Galarian Yamask counts towards the 49 HP damage requirement.

2. Does healing the Yamask after it takes damage reset the evolution counter?

No, healing the Yamask does not reset the counter. You can use healing items to prevent it from fainting, as long as it takes the required damage overall.

3. What happens if my Galarian Yamask faints after taking damage?

If the Galarian Yamask faints after taking at least 49 HP damage, the evolution counter resets, and you’ll need to start accumulating damage again.

4. Does the level of the Galarian Yamask affect the evolution?

No, the level of the Galarian Yamask does not affect the evolution. The only requirements are taking at least 49 HP damage and passing under the stone arch in Dusty Bowl.

5. Is the stone arch in Dusty Bowl always in the same location?

Yes, the large stone arch in Dusty Bowl is a fixed landmark and can be easily found on the map.

6. Can I use a Pokémon Center to heal my Galarian Yamask during the evolution process?

Yes, you can use a Pokémon Center to heal your Galarian Yamask as long as it has taken the required damage and has not fainted.

7. Does the weather in Dusty Bowl affect the evolution?

No, the weather in Dusty Bowl does not affect the evolution process. The only requirements are the damage threshold and passing under the stone arch.

8. Can I evolve multiple Galarian Yamasks into Runerigus?

Yes, you can evolve multiple Galarian Yamasks into Runerigus, but each one must meet the damage and location requirements individually.

9. Is it possible to trade a Galarian Yamask?

Yes, you can trade a Galarian Yamask with other players.

10. Can I use Dynamax or Gigantamax during the battles to accumulate damage on my Galarian Yamask?

While you can, it is not recommended. Dynamaxing and Gigantamaxing drastically increase HP, making it harder to target the 49 damage threshold accurately.

11. Does Yamask evolve in Pokémon GO?

Yes! To evolve Galarian Yamask into Runerigus in Pokémon GO you need 50 Yamask candy and you have to participate in 10 raids.

12. I’m playing an older generation of Pokémon. Can I get Runerigus?

No. Runerigus is exclusive to Generation VIII and later games. It is the Gen 8 evolution of Galarian Yamask. Galarian Yamask and therefore Runerigus, did not exist in earlier generations.

13. Is one of the evolutions (Cofagrigus or Runerigus) more powerful in competitive battles?

The meta (most effective tactics available) shifts constantly, but generally Cofagrigus is considered the more competitively viable Pokemon due to its unique ability, Mummy, which changes an opponent’s ability upon contact. Runerigus can be viable in certain strategies with its Ground/Ghost typing and access to powerful moves, but it is less generally useful.

14. Is Yamask based on real-world mythology?

Yes. Yamask and Cofagrigus are thought to be based on ancient Egyptian beliefs about death and mummification, and are often associated with pharaohs and tombs. Runerigus, however, is more closely associated with ancient stone tablets and runestones.

15. Can I reverse Yamask’s evolution if I change my mind?

No, once Yamask evolves into either Cofagrigus or Runerigus, the evolution is permanent and cannot be reversed in the main series Pokémon games without using external save editing tools.

Conclusion

The evolution of Yamask presents a fascinating study in regional variations and unique evolutionary mechanics within the Pokémon world. Whether you’re aiming to obtain a powerful Cofagrigus through traditional leveling or embarking on the quest to evolve a Galarian Yamask into Runerigus by fulfilling specific conditions, understanding the nuances of each evolution path is key to completing your Pokédex and mastering your battling strategy.