King’s Rock is a special evolution item in Pokémon Go that allows players to evolve two specific Pokémon: Poliwhirl into Politoed and Slowpoke into Slowking. This item, introduced from the main series games, adds a layer of strategy to evolving your Pokémon. However, obtaining a King’s Rock in Pokémon Go requires persistence and luck due to its rarity.
Ways to Obtain King’s Rock
There are several ways to get King’s Rock, but no method guarantees it outright. Here’s how you can maximize your chances:
1. Spinning PokéStops and Gyms
One of the most common methods is spinning PokéStops and Gyms. While you can acquire a variety of items this way, the chance of receiving a King’s Rock is extremely low, approximately 1%. To increase your chances, consistently spin as many stops and gyms as possible during your gameplay.
2. Field Research Breakthroughs
Completing seven days of Field Research tasks guarantees a breakthrough reward. While this reward varies, it often includes evolution items such as King’s Rock. This method is more reliable than spinning stops, as it ensures a higher probability of obtaining an evolution item.
3. Friend Gifts
Opening gifts from friends can occasionally reward you with a King’s Rock. Maintaining active friendships and exchanging gifts daily can boost your chances. This method also emphasizes the social aspect of the game, encouraging interaction with other trainers.
4. Special Research Tasks
Certain events and Special Research tasks include King’s Rock as a reward. Keep an eye on announcements for in-game events or storyline-related research opportunities. Participating in these events increases the likelihood of obtaining this rare item.
5. Team GO Rocket Battles
Defeating Team GO Rocket Grunts or Leaders sometimes rewards players with rare items, including King’s Rock. Engaging in these battles not only enhances your item collection but also offers opportunities to purify Shadow Pokémon.
How to Use King’s Rock
Once you’ve obtained a King’s Rock, it’s time to use it to evolve your Pokémon. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Select the Pokémon: Open your Pokémon storage and choose either Poliwhirl or Slowpoke.
- Ensure You Have Enough Candy: You’ll need 100 Poliwag Candies to evolve Poliwhirl into Politoed or 50 Slowpoke Candies to evolve Slowpoke into Slowking.
- Initiate Evolution: On the Pokémon’s info screen, tap the “Evolve” button. A short evolution animation will play, showcasing your newly evolved Pokémon.
It’s worth noting that King’s Rock is consumed upon use, so you’ll need another one for subsequent evolutions.
Pokémon That Use King’s Rock
As of now, King’s Rock is exclusively used to evolve:
- Poliwhirl → Politoed
- Slowpoke → Slowking
Both of these evolutions are great additions to your roster, especially if you’re aiming for Pokédex completion or seeking versatile Pokémon for battles.
Tips for Optimizing Your Chances
- Plan Around Events: Evolution items are often more accessible during special in-game events. Make sure to participate in these for higher rewards.
- Stay Consistent: Daily gameplay increases your opportunities to spin PokéStops, complete tasks, and open gifts, which can gradually lead to obtaining King’s Rock.
- Utilize Research Opportunities: Always complete your Field Research tasks. The guaranteed rewards from breakthroughs are one of the most reliable ways to collect rare items.
Why King’s Rock Matters
King’s Rock isn’t just a means to an end—it’s a nod to the mainline Pokémon games where strategic use of evolution items is crucial. In Pokémon Go, these items continue to add depth to the gameplay, making the hunt for them both rewarding and exciting.
By staying consistent and exploring all available methods, you can improve your odds of securing this elusive item. With patience and a bit of luck, you’ll soon have Politoed and Slowking as proud members of your Pokémon collection. So gear up, spin those PokéStops, and keep your eyes on those research tasks!
