# Evolving Your Dusk Form Lycanroc in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: A Comprehensive Guide
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet introduce a fascinating region to explore, filled with new and returning Pokémon alike. Among these is Rockruff, a loyal canine Pokémon with the potential to evolve into various impressive forms of Lycanroc. However, the Dusk Form, Lycanroc (Dusk Form), presents a unique evolutionary path that requires specific conditions to be met. This guide will detail how to obtain and evolve your Rockruff into the coveted Dusk Form Lycanroc in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, ensuring you have the strongest team possible.
Evolving Rockruff into its Dusk Form in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet is a process tied to its evolution method, which differs from its Midnight and Midday counterparts. Unlike other evolutions that might depend on a specific level or item, Dusk Form Lycanroc’s evolution is triggered by a combination of Rockruff’s level and the time of day. This particular evolution requires your Rockruff to reach level 25 or higher, and crucially, it must evolve during the in-game daytime. Understanding these specific parameters is key to successfully achieving the Dusk Form.
| Category | Information |
| :—————- | :————————————————- |
| Pokémon | Rockruff |
| Evolution | Lycanroc (Dusk Form) |
| Level Requirement | Level 25 or higher |
| Time of Day | Daytime (in-game) |
| Location | Paldea Region |
| Authentic Website | [https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokedex/rockruff](https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokedex/rockruff) |
## Understanding Rockruff’s Evolutionary Paths
Rockruff’s unique ability to evolve into three distinct forms of Lycanroc adds a layer of strategic depth to team building. Each form possesses different base stats, abilities, and even appearances, making the choice of evolution a significant decision for any trainer.
### Midday Form Lycanroc
The most common evolution, Midday Form Lycanroc, is achieved when Rockruff evolves at level 25 or higher during the in-game daytime. This form is known for its balanced stats, making it a versatile offensive and defensive Pokémon.
### Midnight Form Lycanroc
Midnight Form Lycanroc evolves from Rockruff at level 25 or higher during the in-game nighttime. This form boasts higher offensive stats, particularly its Attack, making it a powerful offensive threat.
### Dusk Form Lycanroc: The Elusive Evolution
Dusk Form Lycanroc is considered the rarest of the three evolutions. It requires Rockruff to be level 25 or higher and to evolve specifically during the in-game daytime. This form offers a blend of offensive and defensive capabilities, often seen as a middle-ground between Midday and Midnight forms.
## How to Obtain Rockruff in Scarlet and Violet
Rockruff can be found in several locations across the Paldea region. Early in your journey, you might encounter it in the South Province. As you progress, it also appears in the West Province and near the Casseroya Lake.
Here are some of the primary locations where Rockruff can be found:
* **South Province (Area One):** A common spot for early-game encounters.
* **South Province (Area Two):** Another area where Rockruff tends to spawn.
* **West Province (Area Two):** As you explore further west, you’ll find Rockruff here.
* **Casseroya Lake:** A more remote location where Rockruff can also be encountered.
### Breeding for Rockruff
If you’re having trouble finding Rockruff in the wild, breeding is a reliable alternative. You can obtain a Rockruff by breeding a female Lycanroc (of any form) or a Ditto with a Rockruff or Lycanroc. Once you have a Rockruff egg, hatch it to get your own Rockruff.
## The Evolution Process: Step-by-Step
Evolving your Rockruff into Dusk Form Lycanroc requires careful attention to the conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the steps:
1. **Catch a Rockruff:** Find and catch a Rockruff in the Paldea region or obtain one through breeding.
2. **Train Your Rockruff:** Level up your Rockruff through battles and experience-gaining activities.
3. **Reach Level 25:** Ensure your Rockruff reaches at least level 25.
4. **Evolve During Daytime:** This is the most critical step. Make sure the in-game time is set to daytime when Rockruff is about to evolve. You can check the in-game clock by pressing the X button to open the menu; the time of day is displayed on the bottom of the screen. If it’s nighttime, you may need to wait or adjust your system’s clock (though this is generally not recommended for gameplay continuity).
Did you know? Rockruff is known for its incredibly strong bite, capable of crushing rocks. Its loyalty is also a defining trait, as it will fiercely protect its trainer.
### Understanding In-Game Time
The in-game time in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet is a continuous cycle that mimics real-world time to some extent but is not directly synchronized. To ensure you are evolving during the “daytime,” observe the in-game visuals.
* **Daytime:** Character and environment are brightly lit, sun is visible in the sky.
* **Nighttime:** The environment is dark, stars and moon are visible.
If your Rockruff reaches level 25 at night, simply have it gain one more experience point to level up during the next in-game daytime.
## Strategies for Training Rockruff
To efficiently train your Rockruff to level 25 and beyond, consider these strategies:
* **Battles:** Engage in wild Pokémon battles and trainer battles to gain experience.
* **Exp. Candies:** Use Exp. Candies (XS, S, M, L, XL) found throughout Paldea or as rewards from Tera Raid Battles.
* **Picnics:** Your Pokémon gain experience while in your party during a Pokémon Picnic.
### Rockruff’s Abilities and Their Impact
Rockruff has access to three possible abilities:
* **Keen Eye:** Prevents the Pokémon’saccuracy from being lowered.
* **Vital Spirit:** Prevents the Pokémon from falling asleep.
* **Own Tempo (Hidden Ability):** Increases the Pokémon’s Speed by one stage when hit by a slowing move (like String Shot or Sticky Web).
The Dusk Form Lycanroc has a unique ability when it evolves from a Rockruff with the Own Tempo ability. This specific Rockruff is often referred to as the “special” Rockruff.
Fact: Rockruff’s evolution into Lycanroc is influenced by the time of day and its ability, making each encounter with this Pokémon a potentially unique experience for trainers.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q1: Can any Rockruff evolve into Dusk Form Lycanroc?**
A: Yes, but only under specific conditions. The Rockruff must be level 25 or higher and evolve during the in-game daytime. However, if you want a Dusk Form Lycanroc with its unique Hidden Ability, you must start with a Rockruff that possesses the Own Tempo ability.
**Q2: How do I know if it’s “daytime” in the game?**
A: Daytime is characterized by bright lighting, a visible sun, and generally clear skies. Nighttime is dark, with stars and the moon visible. You can also check the in-game clock displayed on your menu.
**Q3: What if my Rockruff evolves into Midday or Midnight Form by accident?**
A: If you accidentally evolve your Rockruff into the wrong form, you will need to catch another Rockruff and follow the correct evolution method for Dusk Form.
**Q4: Where can I find Rockruff with the Own Tempo ability?**
A: Rockruff with the Own Tempo ability were available through special distribution events in previous games. In Scarlet and Violet, you may have a chance to encounter them through specific in-game events or trading with players who obtained them previously. If you are playing the game post-launch, you may need to wait for future events or rely on trading.
**Q5: Does the evolution method differ for Rockruff caught in different regions or games?**
A: The evolution method described (level 25+, daytime) is specific to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. If you transfer a Rockruff from a previous generation, its evolution might be influenced by its original game’s mechanics, though typically the Scarlet/Violet mechanics will apply once in the game.
By carefully following these steps and understanding the nuances of Rockruff’s evolution, you’ll be well on your way to adding the powerful and distinctive Dusk Form Lycanroc to your team in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. Happy training!
