
Guide to Applin and its Evolutions in Pokémon Go

By Kim Swift


By Kim Swift
Pokémon Go players can now discover Applin and its diverse evolutionary line, including Flapple, Appletun, Dipplin, and Hydrapple. This marks a notable expansion to the game's mechanics, introducing a new item collection system centered around apples. The guide offers in-depth strategies for locating Applin and navigating its complex evolution paths, crucial for trainers aiming to complete their collections and prepare for potential future features like Gigantamax forms. With the recent debut of shiny Applin, players have additional incentives to engage with these unique apple-dwelling Pokémon.
Applin, a recent addition to the world of Pokémon Go, introduces a fresh gameplay mechanic involving the discovery of apple items scattered across the in-game environment. Players can secure Applin by interacting with these apple items, which might appear rarely or more frequently during specific events, particularly when Mossy Lure Modules are active. Alternatively, Applin may simply spawn in the wild, similar to other Pokémon. Event-specific Collection Challenges and Timed Research, such as the "Sweet Discoveries" and "Harvest Festival" quests, also provide opportunities to encounter and capture Applin. Currently, these methods represent the primary ways to obtain this unique Pokémon, encouraging trainers to remain vigilant for apple items on their screens.
The initial evolutions for Applin—Flapple, Appletun, and Dipplin—each demand a combination of Applin Candy and distinct apple items. To transform Applin into Flapple, players must gather 20 Tart Apples along with 200 Applin Candy. For Appletun, the requirement shifts to 20 Sweet Apples and 200 Applin Candy. Dipplin's evolution necessitates 20 Syrupy Apples in addition to 200 Applin Candy. These specific apple items are obtainable either by tapping on apples found on the ground or through rewards from various in-game events. While Gigantamax forms for Flapple and Appletun are not yet available in Pokémon Go, their existence in other Pokémon titles suggests that collecting Applin Candy now could be a strategic move for future game updates, as these forms often feature unique moves that could be adapted for Pokémon Go gameplay.
The evolutionary journey of Applin extends further with Dipplin, which can evolve into Hydrapple. This advanced evolution involves a unique set of conditions that test a trainer's dedication. To achieve Hydrapple, players must first set Dipplin as their buddy Pokémon. Following this, they need to catch seven Dragon-type Pokémon, a task that, when combined with 400 Applin Candy, will trigger the evolution. This multi-step process for Hydrapple highlights the intricate and evolving mechanics within Pokémon Go, encouraging players to engage with various aspects of the game beyond simple candy accumulation. Such detailed evolution requirements provide depth to the gameplay and reward persistent players.
Adding to the excitement, shiny Applin made its grand debut during the 2026 "Harvest Festival" event, alongside shiny versions of its entire evolutionary family. Enthusiasts can now seek out a striking green rendition of Applin, a stark contrast to its standard red appearance. The shiny forms of Dipplin and Hydrapple boast a captivating golden candy coating, making them particularly desirable collector's items. The introduction of these shiny variants provides an additional layer of challenge and reward for players, enhancing the appeal of the Applin family. These aesthetically distinct versions offer a fresh objective for trainers, ensuring that the pursuit of Applin and its evolutions remains a vibrant and engaging part of the Pokémon Go experience.
About the author

Video game designer known for pioneering work on "Portal," focusing on innovative puzzle mechanics.

by Roberta Williams
by Roberta Williams