Get ready, Trainers—the regal excitement is building in Pokémon Go, and the upcoming Crown Clash event is shaping up to be a real showstopper. Running from May 10th through May 18th, this new in-game celebration brings with it not only exciting rewards and bonus XP but also the long-awaited debut of a powerful new Pokémon evolution: Kingambit.
Fans of the franchise will know Kingambit as the Big Blade Pokémon, and for the first time, players will be able to add this fierce warrior to their teams. However, it’s not a simple evolution—you’ll need to work for it. To obtain Kingambit, players must evolve Bisharp, but there’s a twist that adds a bit of challenge and fun to the process. Bisharp has to be your assigned buddy, and you’ll need to take it into battle—sort of. Your goal is to defeat 15 Dark- or Steel-type Pokémon in Raid Battles. Bisharp doesn’t have to do the fighting itself, but it must be by your side when the wins are tallied.
Alongside Kingambit’s debut, players can look forward to some festive flair in the form of two familiar faces with a fresh twist. Nidoqueen and Nidoking will be joining the event lineup, both decked out in new crown-themed costumes. These two costumed Pokémon will be appearing in three-star raids, giving Trainers a chance not only to catch them but also to possibly encounter their Shiny versions. For one-star raids, the lineup includes Sneasel, Klink, and Pawniard, the latter of which will play a key role in evolving your Bisharp later on.
As is tradition during themed events, the wild will also be brimming with activity. Be on the lookout for Pokémon like Slowpoke, which might gift you a coveted King’s Rock, as well as Slakoth, Piplup, Combee, Snivy, and Litleo. Pawniard will also appear more frequently, which is great news if you’re aiming to get ahead in evolving your own.
For those looking to rack up experience, this is the perfect time. Double XP for evolving Pokémon will be in effect throughout the event, so it’s a smart moment to dig into your inventory and evolve anything you’ve been saving. In addition, special Field Research tasks and a Collection Challenge tied to catching and evolving specific Pokémon will help you earn extra XP, Stardust, and even more encounters with Pawniard.
Players Level 31 and above will also receive a guaranteed Candy XL for every evolution once the Collection Challenge is complete, which makes the grind for stronger Pokémon even more rewarding. And if you love a little competition, be sure to swing by PokéStops during the event to participate in event-themed Showcases, where you can show off your best catches and maybe earn some bragging rights.
Whether you’re in it for the new Pokémon, the stylish crowns, or the thrill of the chase, Crown Clash is shaping up to be a can’t-miss event. Get your teams ready, prep those raid passes, and get ready to rule the wilds with Kingambit by your side.
