Zoroark is a bipedal, slate gray, fox-like Pokémon with crimson and black accents. It has a pointed snout and ears with red insides. Red also rims its eyes and mouth. Zoroark sports a large, red, voluminous mane with black tips, styled into a ponytail, with a teal bangle separating parts of the mane. A black ruff covers its upper body, extending from the shoulders where its slim arms begin. The lower arms are slightly bulkier and have spiky fur extensions at the elbows. Its hands and feet bear red claws, and its eyes are outlined in red with light blue irises.
Zoroark can create illusions that mimic reality perfectly, deceiving multiple people simultaneously. It can fabricate entire landscapes within forests to conceal its territory and safeguard its den. However, Zoroark cannot physically transform; it merely casts illusions. When mimicking humans, it can speak their language convincingly. Its illusory attacks appear so realistic they fool cameras and make victims believe they're being physically harmed, though no actual damage occurs. Lonely trainers often use Zoroark's powers to alleviate their solitude. There are tales of Zoroark punishing those who attempt to capture it with terrifying illusions.
Zoroark lives in close-knit groups, fiercely protective of its loved ones. It will risk its life to keep them safe and hold grudges against anyone who harms them. Zoroark hides its young Zorua in its mane for protection and transport. Legends tell of Zoroark trapping would-be captors in illusions as punishment.
Forms
Zoroark has an ancient regional form known as Hisuian Zoroark. In the Hisui region, Zoroark takes on a ghostly appearance due to harsh conditions leading to its death and subsequent rebirth fueled by spite. Its main body color is now a disheveled light gray with red and white accents. Hisuian Zoroark's head and face resemble its Unova counterpart but are colored gray. It has gray ears with black insides and two white markings on both sides of the face. The ears also feature light red split parts. The long mane has transformed into a longer one, colored white with light and dark red tips covering part of Zoroark’s face. The arms and legs display several red spots and light red dangling fur. Its claws and toes are black, and its eyes are now red with yellow sclera.
Due to its eerie appearance, Hisuian Zoroark is said to embody death. The illusions it creates through its withering fur brim with malice. Uniquely, these spiteful illusions can inflict physical harm internally and externally. This power stems from its hatred for all living things. Hisuian Zoroark's illusory malice is potent enough to drive viewers to insanity from sheer terror. It recklessly attacks enemies, causing self-inflicted harm due to its bitter energy. Despite its hostile nature, Hisuian Zoroark can be compassionate towards those it cares about, like Hisuian Zorua, becoming a valuable ally once trust is earned. It prefers cold regions and uses its illusionary skills to easily deceive others for food, much like its Unova counterpart.
Evolution
Zoroark evolves from Zorua. Similarly, Hisuian Zoroark evolves from Hisuian Zorua.
