The Pokémon world is filled with exciting creatures, each with unique traits and powers. One of the fan favorites from the Pokémon franchise is Lycanroc, a Rock-type Pokémon that has three distinct forms. Its uniqueness lies in its ability to evolve into three separate forms depending on specific conditions during evolution. This article will delve into the evolution process, compare the strengths and weaknesses of each form, and offer strategies for battling with Lycanroc to maximize your wins.
Understanding Lycanroc: An Overview
Before jumping into Lycanroc’s evolution and battle strategies, it’s crucial to understand what makes this Pokémon stand out. Lycanroc first appeared in the Pokémon Sun and Moon games, where it quickly garnered attention for its three evolution forms. It evolves from Rockruff, a cute and relatively weak Rock-type Pokémon, under specific conditions that affect the form it takes. The three forms are:
Midday Form
Midnight Form
Dusk Form
Each of these forms has its own abilities, stats, and move sets, which makes Lycanroc a versatile choice in various battle situations. We will explore each form in detail, covering evolution techniques, strengths, weaknesses, and how to use each form effectively in battles.
Lycanroc Evolution: How to Obtain All Three Forms
The evolution from Rockruff to Lycanroc is not a straightforward process, as it depends on several factors, including the time of day and, in some cases, specific conditions. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to evolve Rockruff into each of the three forms of Lycanroc.
Midday Form Lycanroc
To evolve Rockruff into the Midday Form Lycanroc, the Pokémon needs to level up during the day in Pokémon Sun, Ultra Sun, or Sword and Shield. The in-game clock plays a crucial role, as it must be during the day (between 5 AM and 6 PM) for the evolution to occur. The Midday Form is the fastest of the three and excels in speed-based strategies.
Evolution Requirements:
Level up during the daytime (between 5 AM and 6 PM).
Abilities:
Midday Form Lycanroc has the ability Keen Eye, which prevents its accuracy from being lowered, or Sand Rush, which boosts speed in a sandstorm.
Recommended Moveset:
Stone Edge, Accelerock, Iron Head, Swords Dance.
Midnight Form Lycanroc
The Midnight Form is vastly different in terms of both appearance and combat style. It evolves when Rockruff levels up at night (between 6 PM and 5 AM) in the Pokémon Moon, Ultra Moon, or Sword and Shield versions. Midnight Form Lycanroc is more defensive and has a focus on physical attacks.
Evolution Requirements:
Level up during nighttime (between 6 PM and 5 AM).
Abilities:
Its ability is Vital Spirit, preventing sleep, or No Guard, which ensures that all moves (including opponents’) will hit.
Recommended Moveset:
Stone Edge, Counter, Fire Fang, Bulk Up.
Dusk Form Lycanroc
The Dusk Form is a special evolution of Rockruff and can only be obtained under specific circumstances. This form can be considered a hybrid of the Midday and Midnight Forms, combining some of the best features of each. To evolve into Dusk Form, the Rockruff must possess the special ability Own Tempo, and you must level it up between 5 PM and 5:59 PM in-game.
Evolution Requirements: Must have the Own Tempo ability and evolve between 5 PM and 5:59 PM.
Abilities:
The Dusk Form has Tough Claws as its ability, boosting the power of contact moves.
Recommended Moveset:
Accelerock, Drill Run, Crunch, Swords Dance
Battle Strategies: Making the Most of Lycanroc’s Abilities
Using Lycanroc effectively in battles requires understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each form. Let’s explore the best battle strategies for each form:
Midday Form Battle Strategy
Midday Form Lycanroc excels in speed, making it perfect for hit-and-run tactics. Its high Speed stat allows it to outspeed many opponents, while its move Accelerock provides a priority Rock-type move that can finish off weakened foes.
Offensive Playstyle:
With Stone Edge and Swords Dance, you can boost its Attack and deal devastating damage to enemies.
Counters and Weaknesses:
It is weak against Steel, Water, Grass, Fighting, and Ground types. Watch out for Pokémon with higher defenses and those that can survive the initial hit.
Midnight Form Battle Strategy
Midnight Form is a more durable option, suitable for battles that require a bulky Pokémon. Its No Guard ability ensures moves like Stone Edge always hit, while Bulk Up can increase its Attack and Defense.
Defensive Playstyle:
Use Bulk Up to boost stats and take advantage of Counter to deal double damage back to physical attackers.
Counters and Weaknesses:
Avoid using it against Special Attackers, as its Special Defense is lower than its physical Defense.
Dusk Form Battle Strategy
Dusk Form combines the best attributes of Midday and Midnight Forms. Its Tough Claws ability boosts moves like Accelerock and Drill Run, making it a versatile attacker.
Balanced Playstyle:
Use Swords Dance to boost Attack, followed by Crunch and Accelerock for varied coverage.
Counters and Weaknesses:
t shares the same weaknesses as the other forms, so plan your strategy around its vulnerabilities.
How to Utilize Lycanroc in Competitive Play
The three forms of Lycanroc can be valuable assets in competitive Pokémon battles if used correctly. Here are some tips for utilizing each form effectively in different battle formats.
Lycanroc in Single Battles
In single battles, Lycanroc’s Midday Form can be used as a fast, physical sweeper. Dusk Form can also play a similar role but with slightly more flexibility due to Tough Claws. Midnight Form, on the other hand, serves well as a counter for physical attackers.
Lycanroc in Double Battles
In double battles, Lycanroc’s Accelerock can be used to pick off weakened foes. Pairing Lycanroc with a partner that can set up Sandstorm will boost its Speed if it has Sand Rush (Midday Form). Midnight Form can serve as a partner to draw attacks away, while Dusk Form can be a versatile attacker.
Team Synergy and Counters
When building a team around Lycanroc, ensure that you have Pokémon that can cover its weaknesses. Water, Grass, and Ground types pose a significant threat, so having Pokémon like Rotom-Wash or Corviknight can help mitigate these threats. Lycanroc’s ability to set up Stealth Rock is also an added advantage for creating entry hazards.
