Pokemon’s first-ever expansion pass has arrived. The Isle of Armor DLC released on June 17th and brought tons of familiar Pokemon along for the journey. One of them is the Pokemon Sun & Moon monster Rockruff. Previously, the game you played determined which version of Lycanroc evolution you received. This has changed in Pokemon Sword and Shield.
You may remember Rockruff as the adorable dog-like Pokemon from the Alola region. It debuted in Pokemon Sun & Moon and became a fan-favorite overnight. It’s beloved status continued into Pokemon Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon. And now, its legacy continues.
Lycanroc and the 3DS Games
Rockruff has two common evolutions and a more rare third form. Originally, Rockruff could only evolve into the Midday Form of Lycanroc in Pokemon Sun & Ultra Sun. Likewise, the Midnight form of Lycanroc was exclusive to  Pokemon Moon & Ultra Moon.
The rarest form, Dusk Form, was exclusive to Pokemon Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon. This version was only possible to obtain by evolving a special Rockruff with the ability Own Tempo.
Both the Midday and Midnight Forms incorporated the 3DS’s internal clock.
Evolving Rockruff
For the first time, Lycanroc doesn’t have game-exclusive evolutions. In Pokemon Sword & Shield, trainers can choose which form(s) they prefer. Similarly to the 3DS games, the Nintendo Switch’s internal clock will still be a factor.
To obtain the Midday Form, trainers will need to evolve Rockruff at Lvl 25 during the day. The Midnight Form follows the same rules, except that the evolution occurs at night. Finally, the Dusk Form requires an Own Tempo Rockruff and happens between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
Pokemon Sword and Shield Raid Battles
For those that want a Lycanroc but don’t want to train a Rockruff, you’re in luck. A Dusk Form Lycanroc is available via Pokemon Sword & Shield raid battles. You can swerve around the evolution process by looking for a purple raid battle near the Tower of Darkness.
