Unova Stones are special evolution items in Pokémon GO that trainers need to evolve certain Pokémon from the Unova region. Unlike regular Candy, these items are not always easy to find, and they cannot be collected simply by catching Pokémon. Trainers must complete specific activities and take advantage of available rewards to obtain them.
If you want to complete your Pokédex, evolve powerful Pokémon, or prepare for future battles, collecting Unova Stones is worth the effort. However, knowing which activities can reward these items will save you time and help you plan your progress.
Here is how to get Unova Stones in Pokémon GO and use them to evolve the right Pokémon.
What Are Unova Stones in Pokémon GO?
Unova Stones are evolution items introduced in Pokémon GO to help trainers evolve certain Pokémon originally discovered in the Unova region. This region first appeared in Pokémon Black and Pokémon White.
Some Pokémon require a Unova Stone alongside the usual amount of Candy to complete their evolution. Without the stone, the evolution option will remain unavailable, even if you have collected enough Candy.
A few Pokémon that use Unova Stones include:
- Lampent: Evolves into Chandelure.
- Pansage: Evolves into Simisage.
- Pansear: Evolves into Simisear.
- Panpour: Evolves into Simipour.
- Munna: Evolves into Musharna.
- Minccino: Evolves into Cinccino.
- Eelektrik: Evolves into Eelektross.
- Tynamo: Evolves into Eelektrik only through Candy, without requiring a Unova Stone for that evolution.
Remember that evolution requirements vary between Pokémon. Always check the evolution screen before spending your Candy or using an item.
How to Get Unova Stones in Pokémon GO
There are several ways to look for Unova Stones. However, not every method guarantees a reward, and the available opportunities can change with game updates and special events.
1. Complete Research Breakthroughs
One way to obtain a Unova Stone is through Research Breakthrough rewards when the item is included in the available reward pool.
To work toward a Research Breakthrough, complete Field Research tasks by spinning PokéStops and claiming the tasks they provide. You can usually hold multiple tasks at once, and completing them earns progress toward your daily research stamp.
Collect stamps on separate days to reach the Research Breakthrough reward. However, Unova Stones are not guaranteed, so check the current reward pool before relying on this method.
2. Complete Special Research and Timed Research
Special Research and Timed Research tasks sometimes offer evolution items as rewards. Certain research lines or event challenges may include Unova Stones, making them useful opportunities for trainers who need one.
To make the most of these opportunities:
- Check the Research tab regularly.
- Complete available event-specific tasks before their deadlines.
- Read the reward details to see whether a Unova Stone is included.
- Prioritize research tasks that offer useful evolution items.
Timed Research is especially important because its rewards may disappear when the event ends. If an event offers a Unova Stone, finish the required objectives before the deadline.
3. Defeat Team GO Rocket Leaders
Battling Team GO Rocket Leaders is another way to obtain Unova Stones. Arlo, Cliff, and Sierra can reward you with one after you defeat them, although the drop is not guaranteed.
To challenge these leaders, you must first collect six Mysterious Components by defeating regular Team GO Rocket Grunts. These components combine to create a Rocket Radar, which helps you locate a leader.
Follow these steps to start hunting for Unova Stones:
- Find Team GO Rocket Grunts at invaded PokéStops or in Rocket Balloons.
- Defeat six Grunts and collect their Mysterious Components.
- Assemble your Rocket Radar.
- Locate and challenge Arlo, Cliff, or Sierra.
- Defeat the leader and check your item rewards.
You can repeat this process to battle leaders again when you have another Rocket Radar. Since Unova Stones are not guaranteed, you may need to win several battles before receiving one.
4. Look for Special Events
Special events can provide additional opportunities to collect Unova Stones. Pokémon GO regularly features themed events, Community Days, and seasonal activities with exclusive research tasks and rewards.
Some events may include Unova Stones as direct rewards for completing particular challenges. Others may offer encounters with Pokémon that require these items to evolve.
Keep these tips in mind:
- Check event announcements for evolution item rewards.
- Complete Collection Challenges before they expire.
- Look for research tasks that specifically list a Unova Stone.
- Take advantage of events featuring Pokémon such as Litwick or Tynamo.
An event reward that explicitly includes a Unova Stone is particularly useful because you know exactly what you will receive after completing the required objective.
