Thievul is a Dark type Pokemon introduced along with the Galar Region (Generation VIII). It is the evolved form of Nickit. This Pokemon survives by swiping from other Pokemon and are natural enemies of Boltund. While it seems like a reference to Swiper from the children’s cartoon Dora the Explorer, it also resembles Zorro. This character is also based on a fox and has a mask similar to Thievul.
About Thievul
| First appearance in anime | Pokemon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle |
| First appearance in game | Sword/Shield |
| Region | Galar |
| Evolution | Nickit → Thievul |
| 1st Evo Requirement | Level 18 |
| Pokedex Entry | It secretly marks potential targets with a scent. By following the scent, it stalks its targets and steals from them when they least expect it. |
Thievul Base stats
| HP | 70 |
| ATTACK | 58 |
| DEFENCE | 58 |
| SP. ATTACK | 87 |
| SP. DEFENCE | 92 |
| SPEED | 90 |
| TOTAL | 455 |
Appearance
Thievul is a thieving fox and despite not being mentioned explicitly, it shares a lot of similarities to Swiper, the antagonist of the children’s TV show, Dora the Explorer. It has the body structure of a fox with two long ears on top of its head. It also has a wing-like structure which acts as a mask and a long thick moustache. While primarily being brown, the mask, back of its ears, foot, back and the edge of its rail is in black. It also has a white patch on its chest. It has a long tail with a spiky edge.
Behavior
Due to its thieving nature, Boltund hate these Thievul naturally and if they ever encounter each other, they will break into a fight. It follows a Pokemon using its scent by secretly marking it. It eventually catches up and waits for an opportune moment. Upon achieving an opportune moment, it sneaks upon the target and then steals from it. These Pokemon are caught off-guard because they steal when they least expect it and it also goes around stealing food and eggs.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Thievul is a pure Dark type and is weak to Bug, Fairy and Fighting type moves while resistant to Ghost and Dark type moves. Not only that, it is immune to Psychic moves while every other type deals out normal damage.
Best moveset
Paired with Choice Specs, Thievul could be an incredible special attacker who can come in clutch while fighting. Dark Pulse is a strong STAB move and should be used with Priority. If you feel the opponent is going to use a set-up move that turn, use Burning Jealousy as it will burn the opponent for sure. Psychic is for coverage. Parting Shot can be used for a quick switch in and out or if you feel you switched in with the wrong Pokemon.
| Dark Pulse | Burning Jealousy |
| Psychic | Parting Shot |
How to catch Thievul in Pokemon Go?
This Pokemon is not yet available to capture in Pokemon Go.
Trivia
- Female Thievul can also have moustaches.
- Despite having glove-like structures on its feet, Thievul has sharp claws.
- Thievul’s natural enemies are Boltund.
FAQs
What does a Thievul evolve into?
Thievul does not evolve into anything. It is the evolved form of Nickit.
Is Thievul a good Pokemon?
While not being a meta Pokemon, Nickpit can come off as fairly strong as a special attacker since it can learn strong special moves. You can also use it as a switcher with Parting Shot.
Where can I find Thievul?
Thievul can be found in Routes 7 and 9, Bridge Field, Hammerlocke Hills, Stony Wilderness, West Lake Axewell, Bridge Field, Stony Wilderness and Giant's Mirror in Pokemon Sword and Shield. Alternatively, you can capture a Nickit and evolve it into Thievul.
Conclusion
Thievul is quite a unique Pokemon. While there are many Pokemon that are based on thievery like Purrloin and Liepard, this Pokemon is unique in its own way because it is based on the saying “Thieving Fox”. While not being especially groundbreaking competitively, this Pokemon is still pretty strong on its own. It has a good movepool along with a strong Hidden Ability, which makes it strong in its own way.
