Understanding Zygarde Cells
Zygarde cells are special items in Pokémon GO that allow you to evolve Zygarde into its different forms. Each cell represents a fragment of Zygarde’s 10% form, and collecting enough of them lets you upgrade to the 50% and 100% versions. Because they are tied to specific in‑game activities, knowing where and how to obtain them is essential for any trainer aiming to complete the Zygarde line.
Where Zygarde Cells Appear
Zygarde cells are not found in the wild like regular items. Instead, they are awarded through three main sources:
- Raids – Participating in and completing raids that feature Zygarde 10%.
- Special Research – Completing certain research storylines that focus on Zygarde.
- Field Research Tasks – Turning in specific tasks that reward Zygarde cells as a bonus.
Raiding for Zygarde Cells
The most common way to acquire Zygarde cells is by battling Zygarde 10% in raid encounters. Follow these steps to maximize your chances:
- Watch for Zygarde 10% raid bosses in the raid feed. They usually appear during special events or themed weeks.
- Join a raid group as soon as the boss spawns. The more players you have, the quicker the raid timer will fill.
- Defeat the raid boss. After a successful battle, each participant receives a Zygarde cell automatically.
- Collect the cell from the post‑raid reward screen. Cells are guaranteed, but the exact number may vary based on event bonuses.
Because raid rewards are consistent, repeatedly completing Zygarde 10% raids is the fastest method to stockpile cells.
Completing Zygarde‑Focused Special Research
Niantic periodically releases special research quests that revolve around Zygarde. These storylines often culminate in a raid battle and reward cells at multiple stages. To make the most of this avenue:
- Start the research as soon as it becomes available. Early steps are usually easy, such as catching specific Pokémon or visiting PokéStops.
- Pay attention to the research milestones. Some steps grant a Zygarde cell directly, while others increase the chance of receiving one after the final raid.
- Finish the research’s final raid battle. Successful completion typically awards a larger bundle of cells, sometimes enough for a full evolution.
Field Research Tasks That Yield Cells
During certain events, Niantic adds field research tasks that give Zygarde cells as a reward. These tasks are often simple, like spinning a set number of PokéStops or catching a particular type of Pokémon. To take advantage:
- Check the daily field research board for any Zygarde‑related tasks.
- Complete the required actions. Tasks may involve catching a specific Pokémon, battling a gym, or earning a certain amount of XP.
- Turn in the completed task at the research desk. If the task includes a cell reward, it will be added to your inventory automatically.
Because field research can be done at any time, it provides a low‑pressure way to accumulate cells alongside regular gameplay.
Using Zygarde Cells to Evolve
Once you have collected enough cells, you can evolve Zygarde 10% into its higher forms. The evolution requirements are:
- To evolve into Zygarde 50%, you need 50 Zygarde cells.
- To evolve into Zygarde 100%, you need 100 Zygarde cells.
Open the Pokémon details screen, select the “Evolve” button, and the game will prompt you to use the required number of cells. Ensure you have the appropriate amount before attempting the evolution, as the process cannot be partially completed.
Tips for Efficient Cell Collection
Here are some practical strategies to speed up your Zygarde cell gathering:
- Coordinate with friends. Form a raid group early in the day to guarantee multiple Zygarde 10% raids.
- Take advantage of event bonuses. During special events, Niantic often increases the drop rate of cells or adds extra cell rewards to research tasks.
- Keep an eye on the news feed. Announcements about upcoming Zygarde raids or research storylines are posted regularly, allowing you to plan ahead.
- Use a storage management app. Regularly clear out unnecessary items so you have space for new cells when they arrive.
Conclusion
Gathering Zygarde cells in Pokémon GO is a straightforward process once you know where to look. By focusing on raids, completing