Magikarp

General overview of Magikarp

Magikarp is a Water-type Pokémon known for being one of the weakest in the Pokédex, yet also one of the most iconic. Its English name is Magikarp and its Japanese name is コイキング (Koiking). This chaotic red fish has virtually no power in battle, but its evolution at level 20 into Gyarados makes it a formidable Pokémon across every generation. Players encounter it very early in a playthrough, whether through a simple fishing rod on a route or in many aquatic locations.

Base characteristics and stats

Magikarp weighs around 10 kg and has very low stats, particularly in Attack and Defense, but its Speed remains surprisingly decent for a Pokémon at its level. Its base stat in HP, Defense, and Attack is too low to be genuinely useful before evolution. Players generally seek out this Pokémon solely for its quick access to Gyarados, one of the most powerful Water and Dragon Pokémon once evolved.

Essential information for players

Magikarp learns almost no useful moves; its signature move is Splash, an attack with no effect that cannot knock out any opponent. Once it reaches a sufficient level, it can still unlock a few minor moves depending on the game, but its role remains the same: survive until reaching level 20. Players can train it using shared experience, easy battles, or in Pokémon GO where its evolution requires a large number of Candies.

Evolution and breeding

Magikarp's evolution is one of the most memorable moments for many players. Starting from level 20, it becomes Gyarados, completely shifting categories by becoming extremely powerful. It is one of the best progression payoffs in the entire Pokédex. For breeding, Magikarp produces an Egg containing a new Magikarp, which can be useful when aiming for a specimen with better IVs or when looking for a specific male or female.

Encounters, locations, and appearances

Magikarp is present in virtually every main series game. It appears in many aquatic locations, often via the most basic fishing rods. Routes, caves with lakes, and even some towns can contain this Pokémon. In certain games, a red (Shiny) Magikarp can be encountered, a form extremely appreciated by collectors and players targeting rare cards.

Magikarp in the Pokémon TCG

Magikarp cards typically have low power and represent this Pokémon's fragile state. Nevertheless, some editions feature alternative, shiny, or event versions that are highly sought after. These cards often emphasize the transition to Gyarados, which has extremely powerful and strategic cards of its own.

Competitive use and EVs

Magikarp has no direct competitive use in battles. Its base stats and lack of attacks make it an almost unusable Pokémon. However, it can serve in EV training for certain players looking for easy opponents to knock out, as its effort values are minimal. Magikarp's true value lies in its evolution, which alone justifies all the time spent training it.

Move list and abilities

Magikarp has an extremely limited set of moves. The list is reduced mainly to Splash, and eventually to attacks such as Tackle or Bounce depending on the game version. No major TM is useful before evolution. Its entry in each Pokédex recalls this lack of power, but also highlights its future potential.