Sword & Shield’s first expansion, the Isle of Armor, recently reintroduced Pokémon that were initially cut from the game’s base edition. Among those returning are Poliwag and its entire evolutionary line. They’re not incredibly common on the Isle, but Poliwrath and Politoed are equally viable fighters, so use this guide to train both final forms.

Catching Frogs & The Evolution From Tadpole to Toed

Poliwag is a rare sighting within Brawler’s Cave. The best chance of encountering one is to surf the ponds within the cave, though they may be seen roaming the overworld there from time to time as well.

While Poliwag develops into Poliwhirl by merely hitting level 25, both of Poliwag’s final evolutions require held items to evolve. Poliwhirl will transform into Poliwrath when it levels while holding a Waterstone. If traded with a King’s Rock in its possession, Poliwhirl will evolve into Politoed instead.

For trainers who don’t raise them, Poliwrath is sometimes found within Brawler’s cave as well, and trainers can sometimes spot Politoed wandering the Soothing Wetlands along with Poliwhirl. The entire Poliwag family can also be seen taking on challengers in max raid dens within the Fields of Honor, Soothing Wetlands, or Courageous Caverns.

The Differences Between a Frog and a Toed

While both final stages are apt partners in battle, they offer slightly varied skill-sets. Politoed faces fewer type disadvantages, but Poliwrath boasts better all-round stats. And where Poliwrath’s physical prowess prevails, Politoed can rely on its special attack and defense abilities instead. Lastly, Politoed remains a solely water-type Pokémon while Poliwrath takes on dual-type fighting abilities.

One of Poliwrath’s most effective moves is Dynamic Punch. It only has a 50/50 accuracy, but it hits for 100 physical attack value and additionally impairs the target with confusion when the move lands. Teaching Poliwrath moves like the Dive TM and Waterfall TR is highly beneficial as well; seeing it doesn’t learn any physical water-type moves naturally. The TM Draining Punch is advisable as well, as it simultaneously heals the user while dealing substantial damage.

Politoed has a lot of learned moves that suit its hands-off battle style, such as Bubble Beam and Hydro Pump. Earth Power and Mud Shot can throw opponents for a loop, effectively taking on any electrifying assailants and causing additional debuffs to help Politoed change the tides of battle.

Poliwag’s family chain is only one of many rejoining the adventures. Check out the full list of Pokémon returning with the Isle of Armor or locate the most elusive of Pokédex entries with TheGamer’s Find ‘Em All guide.

Source: Serebii

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