If you’re searching for how to get Gengar Pokémon GO, there are a few reliable ways to add this powerful Ghost-type Pokémon to your collection.
Gengar is a fan-favourite thanks to its high attack stat and strong performance in raids and certain PvP battles, making it well worth getting.
Let’s take a look below at all the details.
Evolve Haunter (Main Method)
The most common way to get Gengar is by evolving Haunter.
Evolution requirements:
- Gastly → Haunter (25 Candy)
- Haunter → Gengar (100 Candy)
In total, you’ll need 125 Gastly Candy if you’re starting from scratch.
Trade Evolution Trick (Save Candy)
There’s an easier method many players overlook.
If you trade Haunter with another player, you can evolve it into Gengar for free (0 Candy).
This is by far the fastest way to get Gengar if you have someone to trade with.
How to Get Gastly Candy Fast
To evolve Gengar quickly, you’ll need to farm Gastly Candy efficiently:
- Catch every Gastly you see
- Use Pinap Berries to double Candy
- Set Gastly as your Buddy Pokémon
- Transfer extras for additional Candy
Gastly is fairly common, especially during themed events, which makes this grind much easier than some other evolutions.
Read More: Pokémon GO Night Treats 2026 Event Guide
Where to Find Gastly
Gastly spawns more frequently:
- At night
- During Ghost-type events
- In certain weather conditions
You may also encounter Gastly through research tasks or raids.
Can You Catch Gengar in the Wild?
Yes, but it’s very rare.
Wild Gengar spawns do happen occasionally, especially during events, but evolving Haunter is much more reliable.
Get Gengar from Raids
Gengar regularly appears in raids, giving you a chance to catch one directly.
Raids are also a great way to find higher CP Gengar, and sometimes even a shiny version.
Is Gengar Worth It?
Yes, Gengar is one of the best Ghost-type attackers available.
It performs well in:
- Raid battles
- Gym attacks
- Certain PvP formats
However, it has low defense, so it’s best used as a high-damage attacker.
Powering up Gengar will require a lot of resources, so make sure to check out our how to get Stardust fast in Pokémon GO guide to maximise your gains
Best Moveset for Gengar
For strong performance:
- Fast Move: Shadow Claw
- Charged Moves: Shadow Ball + Sludge Bomb
This combination gives excellent damage output and coverage.
Mega Gengar
Gengar can Mega Evolve, making it even stronger.
Mega Gengar boosts Ghost- and Poison-type attacks for your team, which is especially useful during raids.
While you’re catching Gastly and other Pokémon, you might even come across Ditto — see our why can’t I catch Ditto Pokémon GO guide to understand how it works.
Final Tip
If you want Gengar fast in Pokémon GO, trading Haunter is the quickest method. Otherwise, focus on catching Gastly during events to build Candy efficiently.
