Voltorb is an Electric-type Pokémon known for its spherical body that closely resembles a Poké Ball. It is prone to exploding with little to no provocation. In Pokémon GO, trainers can encounter both its original Kanto form and its distinct Hisuian regional variant.
Kanto Voltorb in Pokémon GO
Type: Electric
Appearance: Characterized by its red-and-white coloration, mimicking a standard Poké Ball, with expressive eyes.
Obtaining Kanto Voltorb
Kanto Voltorb primarily appears in the wild, with spawn rates potentially increased during Electric-type focused events or in specific biomes. It has also been featured in Field Research tasks and, occasionally, 2km Eggs.
The shiny version of Kanto Voltorb is available in Pokémon GO. It distinguishes itself with a blue top half instead of the usual red.
Evolution
Kanto Voltorb evolves into Kanto Electrode using 50 Voltorb Candy. There are no special item or buddy distance requirements for this evolution.
Combat Viability (Kanto Electrode)
Kanto Electrode is characterized by high Speed (reflected in fast energy generation) but relatively low bulk. In PvE (Raids and Gyms), it is generally outclassed by stronger Electric-type attackers. In PvP, its primary niche is in the Great League, where its quick access to Charged Attacks can pressure shields, though its frailty limits its overall effectiveness.
- Recommended Fast Attack: Volt Switch
- Recommended Charged Attacks: Thunderbolt, Discharge
Hisuian Voltorb in Pokémon GO
Type: Electric / Grass
Appearance: Hisuian Voltorb has a distinct wooden appearance, resembling the apricorn Poké Balls of the Hisui region. It often has a more cheerful expression.
Obtaining Hisuian Voltorb
Hisuian Voltorb has been introduced through specific events in Pokémon GO. It may appear in the wild during these events, in 7km Eggs obtained from Gifts, or as a Field Research reward.
Shiny Hisuian Voltorb is also available. This variant features a darker, almost black wooden coloration with grey accents.
Evolution
Similar to its Kantonian counterpart, Hisuian Voltorb evolves into Hisuian Electrode using 50 Voltorb Candy.
Combat Viability (Hisuian Electrode)
Hisuian Electrode's unique Electric/Grass typing gives it a different strategic role. This typing provides resistances to common types like Water, Electric, and Grass. In PvP, particularly the Great League, it can serve as a spicy pick, offering good coverage against Water-types with its Electric attacks and dealing with Ground-types (which threaten Electric-types) with its Grass attacks. Its performance in PvE is generally moderate, with better options available for both Electric and Grass-type roles.
- Recommended Fast Attack: Thunder Shock (for Electric focus) or Bullet Seed (for Grass focus)
- Recommended Charged Attacks: Energy Ball, Wild Charge
General Tips for Voltorb Trainers
- Event Participation: Keep an eye on in-game events, as these are often the best opportunities to encounter both forms of Voltorb, including their shiny variants, in higher numbers.
- Candy Management: Use Pinap Berries when catching Voltorb to maximize Candy acquisition, aiding in evolution and potential power-ups for PvP.
- Collection and Niche Use: For many trainers, Voltorb and Electrode (both forms) serve as Pokédex entries. However, their unique typings and movepools can find utility in specific, restricted PvP cup formats.
