Rockruff

General overview of Rockruff

Rockruff is a Rock type Pokémon introduced in the seventh generation in Pokémon Sun and Moon. Known by its Japanese name イワンコ, this Pokémon holds a special place in the Pokédex thanks to its multiple evolution paths linked to form and time of day. Rockruff is often sought out by players for its potential in battle and by collectors for its many cards.

In the Pokédex, Rockruff is identified as #744. It is a quadruped Pokémon inspired by a young rock wolf, immediately recognisable by its expressive eyes and its collar of stones. Its small size and appearance make it popular, but its base stats show that it can become formidable once evolved.

Type, stats, and battle basics

Rockruff is exclusively Rock type, which gives it interesting resistances but also several important weaknesses. In battle, it is vulnerable to Water, Grass, Ground, Fighting, and Steel type moves. In return, it resists Fire, Flying, Normal, and Poison attacks well.

Its base stats are balanced for an intermediate starter Pokémon. Its HP remains modest, but its decent Speed and physical Attack allow it to hold its own effectively in the early levels. These stats improve strongly after evolution, which explains the strategic interest in choosing the right moment and form for evolution.

Base stat details

• Reasonable HP for a low-level Pokémon

• Physical Attack oriented towards direct combat

• Solid Defense thanks to its Rock type

• Sufficient Speed to attack first against certain opponents

Evolution and available forms

Rockruff evolves from level 25 onwards, but its evolution depends on several factors. It can evolve into Lycanroc in different forms depending on the game version, the time of day, and sometimes the Pokémon's special form. This mechanic makes Rockruff unique and highly sought after.

In Pokémon Sun, it evolves into Midday Lycanroc at level 25 during the daytime. In Pokémon Moon, it becomes Midnight Lycanroc at the same level but during the night. A special form, known as Dusk Form, is also available under specific conditions tied to particular events or abilities.

Moves and learned abilities

Rockruff has a list of moves oriented primarily towards physical combat. It naturally learns Rock and Normal type moves, allowing it to handle a wide variety of opponents from the earliest levels.

Example moves learned by level-up

• Tackle for early battles

• Rock Throw to exploit its Rock type

• Bite and Crunch for offensive coverage

• Quick Attack to compensate for certain Speed weaknesses

These moves make Rockruff a reliable Pokémon at the start of an adventure, particularly for players looking for a good balance between offense and defense.

Capture, rates, and useful information

Rockruff is generally available in several rocky areas of Alola. Its catch rate is reasonable, making it accessible even without advanced equipment. It can also be obtained via Eggs, allowing its nature and stats to be optimised from the very start.

In recent games such as Pokémon Scarlet and Violet or Pokémon GO, Rockruff appears during specific events or raids, reinforcing its appeal among collectors and competitive players.

Pokémon cards and collecting

Rockruff exists across several Pokémon cards, often highly appreciated for their dynamic artwork. These cards highlight its Rock type, its signature moves, and its HP values suited to starter decks. Certain shiny or promotional editions significantly increase its value in a collection.

Whether for the card game or the main adventure, Rockruff remains a strategic, versatile, and very popular Pokémon, both for battle and for collecting.