Magikarp, the infamous "useless Pokémon," has finally found its time to shine in Pokémon GO. With the introduction of Mega Gyarados, Magikarp’s ultimate evolution, Trainers worldwide are scrambling to evolve their pitiful fish into fearsome sea serpents. Evolving Magikarp may seem like a daunting task at first, but with the right strategy and a little patience, you too can witness the miraculous transformation from a feeble flopper to a raging behemoth.
Before embarking on your Magikarp evolution journey, it’s crucial to understand the Pokémon’s unique evolutionary mechanic. Unlike most Pokémon, which evolve based on level or experience points, Magikarp requires an astounding 400 candies to trigger its transformation. This seemingly insurmountable number can deter even the most determined Trainers, but fear not, as there are several techniques to accumulate Magikarp candies efficiently.
One of the most effective ways to gather Magikarp candies is by participating in Field Research tasks. These tasks often reward Trainers with Magikarp encounters or Magikarp candies, providing a steady stream of resources. Additionally, using a Pinap Berry when catching Magikarp doubles the candy yield, further accelerating the evolution process. With patience and dedication, even the weakest Magikarp can evolve into a formidable Mega Gyarados, proving that even the most insignificant creatures can achieve greatness.
Understanding Magikarp’s Unique Abilities
Magikarp, despite its seemingly weak and unimpressive appearance, possesses several unique abilities that make it a formidable opponent in certain situations. Known for its iconic Splash move, which has no effect in battle, Magikarp compensates with a surprising degree of resilience and hidden potential.
One of Magikarp’s key abilities is its high HP stat. While Magikarp’s attack and defense stats are notably low, its HP pool is surprisingly vast. This allows Magikarp to withstand multiple attacks without fainting, providing it with an edge in endurance battles.
Furthermore, Magikarp has access to a move called Bounce. Bounce is a Flying-type move that deals significant damage to opponents while also boosting Magikarp’s Defense. This combination of high HP and a powerful move can make Magikarp a formidable foe for opponents who underestimate its potential.
Along with Bounce, Magikarp learns the move Aqua Tail at Level 20. Aqua Tail is a powerful Water-type move that deals considerable damage to opponents. While Magikarp’s other moves may not be impressive, Aqua Tail provides it with a reliable attack that can deal severe blows to enemies.
Magikarp’s unique combination of abilities makes it a surprisingly capable Pokémon in certain circumstances. Its high HP, access to Bounce and Aqua Tail, and ability to endure multiple attacks without fainting give it an edge in endurance battles and against opponents who underestimate its power.
Strategizing Raid Battles for Magikarp Encounters
Raid battles present a high-yield opportunity for catching Magikarp. However, due to Magikarp’s low CP and shallow movepool, it’s crucial to employ strategic tactics to maximize the chances of encountering one:
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Focus on 1-Star Raids: Magikarp primarily appears in 1-star raids, making them the most accessible.
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Join Remote Raids: Utilize the Remote Raid Pass system to participate in raids from the comfort of home.
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Coordinate with Friends: Teaming up with friends increases the chances of successfully completing raids and encountering Magikarp.
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Bring Electric-Type Counters: Electric-type Pokémon, such as Raichu or Jolteon, are highly effective against Magikarp.
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Use Golden Razz Berries: When catching Magikarp, golden razz berries significantly increase the catch rate.
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Make Excellent Throws: Aim for excellent throws to maximize the chance of capturing Magikarp.
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Attend Community Days: Mark your calendars for Community Days, special events where Magikarp spawns more frequently and have a higher chance of being shiny.
Recommended Electric-Type Counters Raichu Jolteon Electivire Magnezone Exploiting Research Tasks and Special Events
Laying the Groundwork
To unlock the Magikarp Evolve mission, embark on field research tasks assigned by Professor Willow. These tasks often entail catching a specific number of Magikarp. By diligently completing these quests, you’ll accumulate the necessary candies to evolve your Magikarp.
Capitalizing on Special Events
Special events serve as golden opportunities to acquire Magikarp candy. During these limited-time events, Magikarp’s spawn rate skyrockets, making it easier to catch multiple specimens. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to earn event-exclusive rewards, such as Magikarp-themed berries, which can further expedite the evolution process.
Exceptional Bonuses
To maximize your candy yield, seek out weather-boosted Magikarp. These Pokémon appear larger than their counterparts and provide a 25% candy bonus upon capture. Furthermore, take advantage of Lucky Egg activations, which double the amount of candy gained for 30 minutes.
Powering Up and Friendship Boosts
Consider powering up your Magikarp to the max before evolving it. Each power-up grants you 1 additional candy. Additionally, if you achieve a Great or Best Buddy status with your Magikarp through consistent interactions, you’ll receive a 1.25x or 1.5x candy boost, respectively.
Evolution Stage Candy Cost Magikarp to Gyarados 400 Gyarados to Mega Gyarados (temporary) 200 Mega Gyarados to Gyarados 0 How to Evolve a Magikarp in Pokémon Go
Magikarp is one of the weakest Pokémon in the game, but it can evolve into the powerful Gyarados. To evolve a Magikarp, you need to collect 400 Magikarp candies. The easiest way to get candies is to catch Magikarp and transfer them to Professor Willow. You can also get candies by walking with Magikarp as your buddy. Once you have collected 400 candies, you can evolve Magikarp by tapping on the “Evolve” button in the Pokémon’s profile.
Here are some tips for evolving Magikarp:
- Use a Pinap Berry when catching Magikarp to get double candies.
- Transfer Magikarp to Professor Willow for 1 candy each.
- Walk with Magikarp as your buddy to get 1 candy every 5 kilometers.
- Participate in raids and battles to get Magikarp candies.
People Also Ask
How long does it take to evolve a Magikarp?
It takes 400 Magikarp candies to evolve a Magikarp into a Gyarados.
What is the best way to get Magikarp candies?
The best way to get Magikarp candies is to catch Magikarp and transfer them to Professor Willow. You can also get candies by walking with Magikarp as your buddy.
Can I use Rare Candies to evolve Magikarp?
Yes, you can use Rare Candies to evolve Magikarp. However, Rare Candies are a valuable resource, so it is best to save them for evolving more powerful Pokémon.