Getting a King’s Rock in Pokemon Ultra Sun is a worthwhile endeavor, as this item not only boosts your Pokémon’s flinching capabilities but also enables specific evolutions. This comprehensive guide from rockscapes.net will walk you through every method to acquire this valuable item, enhancing your gameplay with powerful evolutions and strategic advantages. Find out about rock-solid strategies, evolutionary stones, and other crucial items.
1. Understanding the King’s Rock
The King’s Rock is a valuable item in the Pokémon universe, primarily known for two key functions. First, when held by a Pokémon, it increases the chance of causing the opponent to flinch when using a damaging move. Second, and perhaps more notably, it’s essential for evolving certain Pokémon through trading. This combination of battle utility and evolutionary significance makes it a sought-after item for trainers looking to enhance their teams. Let’s delve into what makes the King’s Rock so special.
1.1 What Does a King’s Rock Do?
A King’s Rock primarily serves two purposes: enhancing flinching rates and enabling evolution.
- Flinching: When a Pokémon holds a King’s Rock, any damaging move they use has a 10% higher chance of causing the target to flinch, preventing them from acting during that turn. This can be a game-changer in battles, giving you the upper hand by disrupting your opponent’s strategy.
- Evolution: Trading a Pokémon while it holds a King’s Rock triggers the evolution of specific Pokémon. For instance, trading Poliwhirl with a King’s Rock results in Politoed, and trading Slowpoke with a King’s Rock results in Slowking.
1.2 Which Pokémon Evolve with a King’s Rock?
The King’s Rock is essential for evolving two notable Pokémon:
- Poliwhirl to Politoed: Poliwhirl, a Water-type Pokémon, evolves into Politoed, another Water-type, when traded while holding a King’s Rock.
- Slowpoke to Slowking: Slowpoke, a Water/Psychic-type Pokémon, evolves into Slowking, also a Water/Psychic-type, through the same method.
These evolutions are significant, as they provide access to Pokémon with different stats, abilities, and move sets, enriching your team’s diversity and strategic potential.
1.3 King’s Rock’s Flavor Text Through The Games
The flavor text of the King’s Rock has been consistent across various Pokémon games, emphasizing its flinching effect. Here are some examples:
- Gold, Silver, Crystal: May make the foe flinch.
- Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald: A hold item that may cause flinching when the foe is hit.
- Diamond, Pearl, Platinum: An item to be held by a Pokémon. It may cause the foe to flinch when the holder inflicts damage.
- Black, White: An item to be held by a Pokémon. When the holder inflicts damage, the target may flinch.
- X, Y: An item to be held by a Pokémon. When the holder successfully inflicts damage, the target may also flinch.
- Ultra Sun, Ultra Moon: An item to be held by a Pokémon. When the holder successfully inflicts damage, the target may also flinch.
- Scarlet, Violet: An item to be held by a Pokémon. It may cause the target to flinch whenever the holder successfully inflicts damage on them with an attack.
These descriptions consistently highlight the item’s primary battle effect, making it a strategic choice for trainers aiming to disrupt their opponents.
2. Finding the King’s Rock in Pokemon Ultra Sun
In Pokemon Ultra Sun, there are a few reliable methods to acquire the King’s Rock. These include finding it on Route 1, fishing on Ula’ula Island, and purchasing it at the Battle Tree. Each method offers a different level of challenge and accessibility, allowing players to choose the approach that best suits their current progress in the game. Below, we explore each of these options in detail.
2.1 Route 1
One of the earliest opportunities to find a King’s Rock in Pokemon Ultra Sun is on Route 1. This item is hidden and requires a bit of exploration to locate.
- Location: The King’s Rock is located on Route 1 near the Trainer School.
- How to Find: Look for a small, elevated patch of grass accessible from the beach area. The King’s Rock is hidden in this patch, so be sure to thoroughly search the area.
Finding the King’s Rock early in the game can provide a significant advantage, especially if you plan to evolve a Poliwhirl or Slowpoke.
2.2 Fishing on Ula’ula Island
Fishing on Ula’ula Island is another method to potentially obtain a King’s Rock. This approach requires patience and a bit of luck, but it can be a reliable way to acquire the item.
- Location: Ula’ula Island offers various fishing spots where you can find different items.
- How to Fish: Use a fishing rod at any fishing spot on Ula’ula Island. There is a chance, albeit small, that you will reel in a King’s Rock along with other items and Pokémon. Keep fishing to increase your chances.
Fishing can be a relaxing way to search for a King’s Rock while also encountering different Pokémon.
2.3 Purchasing at the Battle Tree
The Battle Tree is a post-game facility where you can battle powerful trainers to earn Battle Points (BP). These BP can then be used to purchase various items, including the King’s Rock.
- Location: The Battle Tree is located on Poni Island.
- How to Purchase: Earn BP by winning battles at the Battle Tree. Once you have enough BP, speak to the vendor inside the Battle Tree facility to purchase a King’s Rock.
The Battle Tree offers a reliable way to obtain a King’s Rock, especially if you enjoy battling and are looking for a consistent method to acquire the item.
3. Utilizing the King’s Rock Effectively
Once you’ve obtained a King’s Rock in Pokemon Ultra Sun, it’s essential to use it effectively to maximize its benefits. This involves understanding how to best leverage its flinching effect in battles and how to properly use it for evolving Poliwhirl and Slowpoke. Below, we explore the best strategies for both scenarios.
3.1 Best Pokémon to Use with the King’s Rock for Flinching
The King’s Rock is most effective when held by Pokémon with moves that have a high number of hits or a good chance of inflicting status conditions. Here are some ideal candidates:
- Togekiss: With its ability Serene Grace, Togekiss doubles the chance of secondary effects occurring on its moves. When holding a King’s Rock and using moves like Air Slash (which already has a 30% flinch chance), the flinch rate becomes incredibly high.
- Jirachi: Similar to Togekiss, Jirachi has the Serene Grace ability, making moves like Iron Head (which has a 30% flinch chance) very potent when combined with the King’s Rock.
- Starmie: While it doesn’t have Serene Grace, Starmie’s high speed and access to moves like Rapid Spin can make it a decent choice for causing flinching, especially against slower opponents.
These Pokémon can disrupt your opponent’s strategy and give you a significant advantage in battles.
3.2 Evolving Poliwhirl into Politoed
Evolving Poliwhirl into Politoed is a straightforward process that requires a King’s Rock and a trade partner.
- Steps:
- Give Poliwhirl the King’s Rock to hold.
- Trade Poliwhirl with a friend or another player.
- Once the trade is complete, Poliwhirl will evolve into Politoed.
Politoed is a strong Water-type Pokémon with good all-around stats, making it a valuable addition to your team.
3.3 Evolving Slowpoke into Slowking
Evolving Slowpoke into Slowking follows the same process as evolving Poliwhirl:
- Steps:
- Give Slowpoke the King’s Rock to hold.
- Trade Slowpoke with a friend or another player.
- Once the trade is complete, Slowpoke will evolve into Slowking.
Slowking is a Water/Psychic-type Pokémon with high Special Defense and Special Attack, making it a formidable opponent in battles.
4. Additional Tips for Obtaining and Using the King’s Rock
To further enhance your experience with the King’s Rock, consider these additional tips. These strategies can help you optimize your approach to obtaining the item and maximizing its utility in Pokemon Ultra Sun. Let’s explore these tips in more detail.
4.1 Farming BP at the Battle Tree
If you opt to purchase the King’s Rock at the Battle Tree, efficiently farming Battle Points (BP) is crucial. Here are some tips to help you maximize your BP gains:
- Team Composition: Build a well-balanced team with strong Pokémon that cover a variety of types and strategies. Include Pokémon with high offensive stats and reliable moves.
- Battle Strategy: Develop a solid battle strategy that takes advantage of your team’s strengths and covers their weaknesses. Learn to predict your opponent’s moves and plan accordingly.
- Utilize Items: Use items such as Z-Crystals, Mega Stones, and held items to give your team an edge in battles. Experiment with different item combinations to find what works best for your team.
- Practice: Practice battling at the Battle Tree to improve your skills and familiarize yourself with the various trainers and their Pokémon. The more you battle, the better you will become at earning BP.
4.2 Checking Daily Deals
Keep an eye on daily deals in the game, as sometimes the King’s Rock may be available for purchase at a discounted price. Checking these deals regularly can save you BP or in-game currency.
4.3 Trading with Other Players
Consider trading with other players who may have extra King’s Rocks. This can be a quick and easy way to obtain the item, especially if you have something of value to offer in return. Online forums and communities are great places to find trade partners.
4.4 Understanding Flinch Mechanics
Flinching is a status condition that prevents a Pokémon from using a move during a turn. The base chance of causing flinching with a move is typically 10%, but this can be increased by using a King’s Rock or abilities like Serene Grace. Understanding how flinching works can help you better strategize your battles.
5. The King’s Rock in Landscape Design: A Metaphorical Connection
While the King’s Rock is a valuable item in the Pokémon world, the principles it embodies—durability, strategic placement, and transformative potential—can be metaphorically applied to landscape design, particularly when incorporating rocks and stone elements. Just as the King’s Rock enhances a Pokémon’s abilities, carefully selected and placed rocks can elevate the aesthetic and functional qualities of a landscape. Let’s explore how.
5.1 Durability and Longevity
In Pokémon, the King’s Rock is a durable item that provides a lasting benefit. Similarly, rocks in landscape design offer unmatched durability and longevity. According to research from Arizona State University’s School of Earth and Space Exploration, natural stones like granite and basalt can withstand weathering and erosion for centuries, making them ideal for long-term landscape installations.
- Application: Using large boulders or stone retaining walls ensures that your landscape design will remain intact for generations, providing a stable and timeless foundation.
5.2 Strategic Placement
The King’s Rock is strategically used to enhance a Pokémon’s flinching ability or trigger an evolution. In landscape design, strategic placement of rocks can create focal points, define spaces, and direct traffic flow.
- Application: Placing a large, eye-catching boulder near an entryway can serve as a natural sculpture, drawing attention and guiding visitors. Smaller stones can be used to line pathways, creating a defined and aesthetically pleasing route.
5.3 Transformative Potential
The King’s Rock transforms Poliwhirl into Politoed and Slowpoke into Slowking, unlocking new potential. Similarly, rocks can transform a mundane landscape into a stunning, naturalistic environment.
- Application: Incorporating a variety of rock sizes and textures can create a dynamic landscape that mimics natural rock formations. This can include creating rock gardens, waterfalls, or even small caves, each adding a unique dimension to the overall design.
5.4 Aesthetic Enhancement
Just as the King’s Rock enhances a Pokémon’s competitive edge, rocks enhance the aesthetic appeal of a landscape. They add texture, color, and visual interest, creating a more engaging and harmonious outdoor space.
- Application: Using different types of rocks, such as smooth river stones, jagged slate, or colorful sandstone, can create a visually rich landscape. The natural variations in these materials add depth and character, making the design more appealing.
5.5 Functional Benefits
Beyond aesthetics, rocks provide functional benefits in landscape design. They can be used for erosion control, water management, and creating microclimates that support plant growth.
- Application: Building a rock garden on a slope can help prevent soil erosion, while strategically placed stones can direct rainwater to specific areas, benefiting plants that thrive in moist conditions.
6. Exploring Different Types of Rocks for Landscaping
Just as there are various items and Pokémon in the Pokémon world, there is a wide array of rocks suitable for landscaping. Each type offers unique characteristics and aesthetic qualities that can enhance different landscape designs. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the right rocks for your specific project.
6.1 Granite
Granite is a hard, durable igneous rock known for its speckled appearance and resistance to weathering. According to the University of Arizona’s Department of Geosciences, granite is composed primarily of quartz and feldspar, making it highly resistant to scratches and stains.
- Uses: Granite is ideal for walkways, patios, and retaining walls. Its strength and durability make it a long-lasting choice for high-traffic areas.
- Aesthetic Qualities: Granite offers a classic, timeless look that complements both modern and traditional landscape designs. Its neutral colors and textured surface add visual interest without being overpowering.
6.2 Slate
Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock that splits easily into thin, flat layers. This characteristic makes it ideal for paving and wall cladding.
- Uses: Slate is commonly used for patios, walkways, and decorative wall features. Its natural cleft surface provides excellent traction, making it a safe choice for outdoor areas.
- Aesthetic Qualities: Slate comes in a variety of colors, including gray, black, green, and purple. Its natural variations and earthy tones add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any landscape.
6.3 Limestone
Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate. It is relatively soft and porous, making it easy to shape and work with.
- Uses: Limestone is often used for garden borders, stepping stones, and decorative accents. Its light color and smooth texture make it a versatile choice for a variety of landscape styles.
- Aesthetic Qualities: Limestone adds a touch of warmth and elegance to any landscape. Its light color reflects sunlight, creating a bright and inviting outdoor space.
6.4 River Rock
River rock consists of smooth, rounded stones that have been shaped by flowing water. These stones come in a variety of sizes and colors, making them ideal for decorative ground cover and water features.
- Uses: River rock is commonly used for dry creek beds, garden borders, and mulch. Its smooth surface and natural colors add a sense of tranquility to any landscape.
- Aesthetic Qualities: River rock creates a naturalistic, organic look that blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Its smooth texture and earthy tones evoke a sense of peace and harmony.
6.5 Flagstone
Flagstone is a type of sedimentary rock that splits into flat slabs. It is commonly used for paving and creating natural-looking pathways.
- Uses: Flagstone is ideal for patios, walkways, and garden paths. Its irregular shapes and natural variations add a rustic, charming touch to any landscape.
- Aesthetic Qualities: Flagstone comes in a variety of colors and textures, allowing you to create a unique and personalized landscape design. Its natural look and earthy tones blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
7. Crafting Your Own Rockscape: A Step-by-Step Guide
Inspired by the strategic and aesthetic principles of the King’s Rock, creating your own rockscape can transform your outdoor space into a captivating and functional environment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you design and build your rockscape, drawing inspiration from the durability and transformative potential of rocks.
7.1 Planning and Design
- Assess Your Space:
- Start by evaluating your landscape. Note the existing features, such as trees, shrubs, and structures.
- Consider the soil type, drainage, and sunlight exposure in different areas.
- Define Your Goals:
- Determine the purpose of your rockscape. Do you want to create a focal point, define a pathway, control erosion, or simply add visual interest?
- Consider the style you want to achieve. Do you prefer a naturalistic look, a formal design, or a modern aesthetic?
- Sketch a Plan:
- Create a rough sketch of your rockscape design. Include the placement of major rocks, pathways, and planting areas.
- Experiment with different layouts and configurations until you find a design that meets your goals and complements your landscape.
7.2 Material Selection
- Choose Your Rocks:
- Select rocks that match your design style and complement the existing landscape. Consider the size, shape, color, and texture of the rocks.
- Visit local stone yards or suppliers to view and select your materials. Look for rocks that are durable, weather-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing.
- Gather Other Materials:
- Prepare the necessary materials, including gravel, sand, soil, and landscape fabric.
- Gather your tools, such as shovels, rakes, wheelbarrows, and levels.
7.3 Construction
- Prepare the Site:
- Clear the area of any debris, vegetation, or existing structures.
- Grade the soil to create the desired slope and contour.
- Install Landscape Fabric:
- Lay landscape fabric over the prepared soil to prevent weed growth and soil erosion.
- Overlap the edges of the fabric to ensure complete coverage.
- Place the Rocks:
- Start by placing the largest rocks first. Use a wheelbarrow or lifting equipment to move the rocks into position.
- Arrange the rocks in a naturalistic pattern, leaving space for pathways and planting areas.
- Create Pathways:
- Define pathways using flagstone, gravel, or mulch.
- Ensure that pathways are level and provide easy access to different areas of the rockscape.
- Add Soil and Plants:
- Fill the planting areas with a well-draining soil mix.
- Select plants that complement the rocks and thrive in the local climate.
- Arrange the plants in a naturalistic pattern, considering their size, shape, and color.
- Finish and Maintain:
- Add decorative gravel or mulch to fill in any gaps and provide a finished look.
- Water the plants thoroughly and monitor them regularly.
- Maintain the rockscape by removing weeds, pruning plants, and adjusting the rocks as needed.
8. Finding Inspiration and Expertise at Rockscapes.net
Embarking on a landscape design project, much like strategizing in Pokémon, requires the right resources and expertise. At rockscapes.net, we offer a wealth of information, inspiration, and professional guidance to help you create the rockscape of your dreams. Just as the King’s Rock enhances your Pokémon’s potential, we provide the tools to transform your outdoor space.
8.1 Design Inspiration
Explore our extensive gallery of landscape designs featuring a variety of rock types, styles, and applications. Whether you’re drawn to a serene Zen garden, a rugged desert landscape, or a contemporary rock feature, you’ll find countless ideas to spark your creativity.
- Explore Diverse Styles: From minimalist arrangements to elaborate rock formations, our gallery showcases the versatility of rocks in landscape design.
- Visualize Your Project: Use our visualizer tool to upload a photo of your space and experiment with different rock layouts, plant combinations, and water features.
8.2 Expert Advice
Our team of landscape architects and stone specialists is available to provide personalized guidance and support throughout your project. From selecting the right rocks to creating a detailed design plan, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
- Consultation Services: Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals, budget, and preferences. We’ll provide expert recommendations and tailor a design that fits your needs.
- Technical Resources: Access our library of articles, guides, and tutorials covering everything from rock selection to installation techniques.
8.3 High-Quality Materials
We source our rocks from trusted quarries and suppliers, ensuring that you receive the highest quality materials for your project. Our selection includes granite, slate, limestone, river rock, and flagstone, each offering unique aesthetic qualities and durability.
- Premium Selection: Choose from a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors to create a one-of-a-kind rockscape.
- Sustainable Sourcing: We prioritize environmentally responsible practices, ensuring that our materials are sourced ethically and sustainably.
8.4 Project Support
From initial design to final installation, we offer comprehensive project support to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience. Our team can assist with site preparation, rock placement, planting, and ongoing maintenance.
- Installation Services: Hire our experienced crew to handle the heavy lifting and ensure that your rockscape is installed correctly and efficiently.
- Maintenance Plans: Sign up for a maintenance plan to keep your rockscape looking its best year-round. We’ll handle tasks such as weeding, pruning, and rock adjustment.
8.5 Contact Us
Ready to transform your landscape? Visit rockscapes.net today to explore our design gallery, access expert advice, and source high-quality materials. Contact us at:
- Address: 1151 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
- Phone: +1 (480) 965-9011
- Website: rockscapes.net
Let rockscapes.net be your partner in creating a stunning and sustainable rockscape that enhances your outdoor living space.
9. FAQ: Mastering the King’s Rock in Pokémon Ultra Sun
9.1 What exactly does the King’s Rock do in Pokemon Ultra Sun?
The King’s Rock serves two primary purposes: it increases the chance of causing the opponent to flinch when held by a Pokémon during battle, and it’s required to evolve specific Pokémon via trading, such as Poliwhirl into Politoed and Slowpoke into Slowking.
9.2 Where can I find the King’s Rock in Pokemon Ultra Sun?
You can find the King’s Rock on Route 1 near the Trainer School, through fishing on Ula’ula Island, or by purchasing it at the Battle Tree using Battle Points (BP).
9.3 How much does the King’s Rock cost at the Battle Tree?
The King’s Rock can be purchased at the Battle Tree for a certain amount of Battle Points (BP), earned by winning battles there. The exact BP cost may vary, so check with the vendor inside the Battle Tree facility.
9.4 Which Pokémon evolve when traded holding a King’s Rock?
Poliwhirl evolves into Politoed, and Slowpoke evolves into Slowking when traded while holding a King’s Rock.
9.5 How do I evolve Poliwhirl into Politoed using the King’s Rock?
Give Poliwhirl the King’s Rock to hold, then trade it with another player. Once the trade is complete, Poliwhirl will evolve into Politoed.
9.6 What is the best strategy for farming Battle Points (BP) to buy the King’s Rock?
Build a well-balanced team with strong Pokémon, develop a solid battle strategy, utilize items such as Z-Crystals and Mega Stones, and practice battling at the Battle Tree to improve your skills.
9.7 Can the Pickup ability help me find a King’s Rock?
In some Pokémon games, Pokémon with the Pickup ability have a small chance of finding a King’s Rock after a battle, but this is not a reliable method in Pokemon Ultra Sun.
9.8 Is there a guaranteed way to get the King’s Rock in Pokemon Ultra Sun?
Purchasing it at the Battle Tree is the most reliable method, as the other methods involve chance (finding it on Route 1 or fishing).
9.9 Can I use the King’s Rock to increase flinching chances in double battles?
Yes, the King’s Rock will increase the chance of causing the opponent to flinch in both single and double battles, making it a useful item for competitive play.
9.10 What are the best moves to use with a King’s Rock for increased flinching?
Moves with a high number of hits or a good chance of inflicting status conditions are ideal. Pokémon with the Serene Grace ability, like Togekiss and Jirachi, are particularly effective when holding a King’s Rock.
