How to Get Vaporeon FREE in Pokemon Unite (March 2026) Complete Guide
Vaporeon has finally splashed onto Aeos Island, and I’m thrilled to tell you that you can unlock this powerful Ranged Defender completely free! The Bubble Jet Pokemon arrived in Pokemon Unite on November 20th, 2026, as part of the exciting Eevee Festival celebration. Unlike most new Pokemon releases that require you to spend precious Aeos Gems, Vaporeon is available through a special limited-time event that rewards dedicated players with the permanent Unite License.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about claiming Vaporeon for free, including the event mechanics, optimal strategies for maximizing your dice rolls, all available rewards, and pro tips to help you secure this fantastic Defender as quickly as possible.
Vaporeon Refracted Melody Challenge
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Vaporeon’s Refracted Melody Challenge |
| Event Duration | November 20 – December 16, 2026 |
| Currency Required | 1,000 Refracted Melody Coins |
| Main Reward | Vaporeon’s Permanent Unite License |
| Event Type | Dice Board Game |
| Difficulty | Easy (Consistent Daily Login) |
| Estimated Time | 10-15 Days of Active Play |
| Available Platforms | Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android |
What is the Vaporeon Refracted Melody Challenge Event?
The Vaporeon’s Refracted Melody Challenge is a board game-style event where you roll dice to progress across a game board, complete small missions, and collect event currency called Refracted Melody Coins. This event format has been used successfully in previous Pokemon Unite releases, including the Mega Charizard and Mega Lucario events, so veteran players will find the mechanics familiar.
What makes this event particularly player-friendly is that progress isn’t time-locked to strict daily milestones. Even if you start late or miss a day or two, you can still complete the event and claim your free Vaporeon license before the December 16th deadline. This forgiving structure means almost any player can obtain Vaporeon without spending real money.
How the Board Game Mechanics Work?
When you enter the Vaporeon’s Refracted Melody Challenge through the Events tab, you’ll see a colorful board-like map with various tiles. Each time you roll a die, your icon moves across the board based on the number rolled. Landing on different tiles triggers various effects, rewards, or mini-missions.
The core loop is simple: roll dice, move forward, collect Refracted Melody Coins, and eventually exchange those coins for the Vaporeon Unite License and other exclusive rewards.
How to Get Dice in the Vaporeon Event?
Obtaining dice is crucial to your progress in this event. Here are all the ways you can earn dice to roll:
1. Daily Login Reward
The primary source of dice comes from simply logging into Pokemon Unite each day during the event. You receive 1 die per day automatically when you log in. However, there’s an important catch: you can only hold one daily die at a time. If you don’t use your die before the next daily reset, you’ll lose it when the new one arrives. So make sure you’re logging in and using your dice every single day!
2. Refracted Melody Support – Login Bonus Event
This companion event runs alongside the main challenge and grants extra dice when you successfully log into the game for 7 days during the event period. These bonus dice stack up and can significantly accelerate your board completion.
3. Coin Collection Challenge
By completing specific collection missions within the event, you can earn additional dice. Combined with the Support Login Bonus, you can obtain up to 10 additional dice beyond your daily logins.
4. Optional: Aeos Gems Purchase
If you’re impatient or started the event late, you can purchase additional dice using Aeos Gems. However, I strongly recommend against this since the free dice are more than sufficient to complete the event within the time limit.
Understanding the Refracted Melody Coins System
Refracted Melody Coins are the primary currency for this event, and you’ll need to collect 1,000 coins to exchange for Vaporeon’s permanent Unite License. Here’s how the coin distribution works:
Coin Rewards at Board Completion
Each time you complete a full loop around the board, you receive a coin reward. The amount has a fixed probability:
| Coin Reward | Probability |
|---|---|
| 100 Refracted Melody Coins | 90% |
| 150 Refracted Melody Coins | 10% |
While the 150-coin reward is rare, completing multiple loops will naturally give you some lucky bonus rewards. On average, most players will complete the event within 10-15 days of consistent play.
Special Tiles on the Board
The game board contains several types of tiles that affect your progress:
- Lucky Squares: Landing on these tiles automatically advances you 1-3 squares forward randomly, giving you faster progress without consuming extra dice.
- Question Mark Tiles: These tiles trigger mini-challenges or missions. Completing them often rewards bonus progress or items.
- Standard Tiles: Regular spaces that simply advance your position.
Best Dice Strategy to Maximize Progress
Rolling dice randomly might seem straightforward, but using an optimized strategy can help you complete the event faster and with fewer dice. Here are my recommended tips:
Aim for Higher Rolls (5 or 6)
When rolling your dice, higher numbers mean more spaces covered per roll. If you’re looking to reach specific tiles (like Lucky Squares or Question Mark tiles), try to time your rolls to land on these beneficial spaces.
Use the Re-Roll Feature Wisely
Pokemon Unite allows you to re-roll your dice if you’re unhappy with the result. The re-roll feature now costs Aeos Tickets (previously it cost Aeos Coins), making it much more accessible for most players. You can re-roll up to 5 times per die.
Pro Tip: If you roll a 1 or 2, consider using a re-roll to get a higher number. The Aeos Ticket cost is minimal, and the extra movement can save you days of grinding.
Target Lucky Squares
Lucky Squares provide free forward movement, so landing on them effectively gives you bonus progress. If you can calculate your position and aim for these tiles with strategic re-rolls, you’ll complete the board loops faster.
Log In Every Single Day
This cannot be stressed enough: daily logins are mandatory for this event. Missing even one day means losing a die you can’t get back. Set a reminder on your phone if needed!
All Rewards in the Vaporeon Refracted Melody Challenge
Here’s the complete list of rewards you can exchange your Refracted Melody Coins for:
| Reward | Cost (Refracted Melody Coins) |
|---|---|
| Vaporeon’s Unite License (Permanent) | 1,000 Coins |
| Vaporeon’s Exclusive Profile Background | 100 Coins |
| Vaporeon’s Themed Frame | 50 Coins |
| Additional Items & Bonuses | Various |
The primary goal is obviously the Unite License at 1,000 coins, but don’t forget to claim the exclusive cosmetic rewards as well! The profile background and frame are limited-time items that may not return, making them valuable collector’s items for Pokemon Unite fans.
Vaporeon Commemorative Event: Get a 3-Day Trial License
Can’t wait to try Vaporeon before you unlock the permanent license? The Vaporeon Commemorative Event running simultaneously offers a 3-Day Limited License for Vaporeon just for logging in and completing simple match missions!
Vaporeon Commemorative Event Rewards
- 3-Day Limited License for Vaporeon – Try the Pokemon immediately
- Exclusive Vaporeon Profile Background – Different from the Refracted Melody one
- Vaporeon Frame for Unite Snapshot
- Additional rewards for completing match missions
To participate, simply complete basic battle missions using any Pokemon, then use Vaporeon in matches once you have the trial license. This event is perfect for testing whether Vaporeon suits your playstyle before committing to the full unlock.
Vaporeon Overview: Is This Pokemon Worth Getting?
Absolutely! Vaporeon is a fantastic addition to the Pokemon Unite roster and brings unique value to any team composition. Here’s why you should definitely claim this free license:
Basic Stats and Role
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Role | Defender (Ranged) |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Style | Ranged |
| Evolution | Evolves from Eevee at Level 4 |
| Damage Type | Special Attack |
Vaporeon’s Passive Ability: Water Absorb
Vaporeon’s signature passive ability, Water Absorb, grants a water-based shield periodically. When Vaporeon takes damage while this shield is active, the shield negates the incoming damage and converts it into HP recovery. This makes Vaporeon incredibly tanky and difficult to take down in extended fights.
Landing boosted attacks on opponents helps reduce the Water Absorb cooldown, allowing Vaporeon to refresh its shield more frequently.
Vaporeon’s Basic Attack
Every third basic attack becomes a boosted attack that deals increased damage. When boosted attacks hit opposing Pokemon, they reduce Vaporeon’s ability cooldowns, creating excellent synergy with the Water Absorb passive.
Vaporeon’s Complete Moveset
Understanding Vaporeon’s abilities is crucial for maximizing its potential in battles. Here’s the complete moveset breakdown:
Early Game Moves (Eevee Form: Level 1-3)
Swift – Eevee shoots star-shaped rays in a designated direction, dealing damage and applying a slowing effect to opposing Pokemon.
Tackle – Eevee charges in a designated direction, dealing damage to opposing Pokemon and shoving them.
Level 4 Move Choices
At Level 4, Eevee evolves into Vaporeon and you choose between:
Hydro Pump – Vaporeon continuously launches a massive volume of pressurized water in the designated direction, dealing damage and pushing back enemies. The move ends with a powerful blast that deals extra damage and shoves opponents. Upgrading reduces the cooldown.
Muddy Water – Vaporeon splashes muddy water around itself, dealing damage, applying a slowing effect, and throwing opposing Pokemon. Great for area control and disruption.
Level 6 Move Choices
Aqua Ring – Vaporeon jumps in a designated direction, creating a continuous wave centered on itself. Allies who contact the wave receive a water veil that continuously restores HP. Upgrading increases the HP restoration amount.
Flip Turn – Vaporeon cloaks itself in water, reducing damage received and increasing movement speed. Using the move again causes Vaporeon to charge forward, dealing damage and shoving opponents before jumping backward. Hitting enemies with the second stage grants a shield effect. Upgrading further reduces damage received.
Unite Move: Tidal Wave
Vaporeon’s Unite Move – Vaporeon jumps high and dives underwater, creating a powerful current that pulls in nearby opposing Pokemon. Afterward, it leaps out dramatically, dealing damage and throwing enemies when it lands. This Unite Move is excellent for initiating team fights or disrupting enemy formations during critical objective battles.
Best Vaporeon Builds for Pokemon Unite
Now that you know how to get Vaporeon for free, let’s discuss how to build and play this Defender effectively!
Recommended Build #1: Frontline Tank (Hydro Pump + Aqua Ring)
This build turns Vaporeon into a steady frontline wall that supports the team:
Moves:
- Hydro Pump (Level 4)
- Aqua Ring (Level 6)
Held Items:
- Slick Spoon – Extra HP, boosted Special Attack, and Special Defense penetration
- Choice Specs – Flat increase to Special Attack
- Drive Lens – Special Attack scaling and shortened cooldowns
Battle Item: Eject Button or Potion
Playstyle: Engage enemies with Hydro Pump to push them back and disrupt their formation, then activate Aqua Ring for a healing wave that protects you and nearby allies. This combination creates sustained team fight presence and makes Vaporeon difficult to take down.
Recommended Build #2: Mobile Disruptor (Muddy Water + Flip Turn)
This build offers constant repositioning and chaos creation:
Moves:
- Muddy Water (Level 4)
- Flip Turn (Level 6)
Held Items:
- Attack Weight – Stack Attack bonuses from scoring
- Focus Band – Survivability at low HP
- Muscle Band – Extra damage output
Battle Item: Eject Button or X Speed
Playstyle: Use Flip Turn to dive in and out of fights, repositioning constantly to use Muddy Water effectively. This build excels at creating chaos in team fights and catching enemies off-guard.
Vaporeon Gameplay Tips and Strategies
Early Game (Eevee Phase: Levels 1-3)
Your early game as Eevee requires patience and safe positioning. Focus on:
- Quickly clearing side camps to reach Level 4 as soon as possible
- Playing safely while assisting allies in lane
- Prioritizing experience over aggressive plays
- Using Swift to poke enemies from range
Recommended Lane: Top or Bottom Lane
Mid Game (Levels 4-9)
Once you evolve into Vaporeon at Level 4, your survivability increases dramatically:
- Assist allies in securing early objectives like Rotom
- Use your crowd control abilities to set up kills for teammates
- Start positioning more aggressively in team fights
- Build stacks on Attack Weight if using that item
Late Game (Levels 10-15)
Late game is where Vaporeon truly shines as a Defender:
- Position at the frontline during team fights
- Save your Unite Move for Rayquaza fights or critical engagements
- Protect your damage dealers from enemy assassins
- Use Water Absorb to tank massive amounts of damage
Checkered Style: Vaporeon Holowear
Want to make your Vaporeon look even cooler? The Checkered Style: Vaporeon Holowear is available in the in-game shop to celebrate the Pokemon’s debut!
How to Get the Checkered Style Holowear?
- Open the Shop from the main screen
- Select the Holowear category on the left side
- Look for “Checkered Style: Vaporeon” in the preview section
- Purchase for 890 Aeos Gems
Important: You must own Vaporeon’s Unite License before purchasing this Holowear. Make sure to claim your free license from the event first!
Other Eevee Festival Events Running Simultaneously
The Vaporeon release is part of a larger Eevee Festival celebration in Pokemon Unite. Here are other events you can participate in for bonus rewards:
Eevee Festival Battle Challenge
Complete various missions to earn Eeveelution-themed rewards. These missions typically involve playing matches, scoring goals, and using specific Pokemon.
Eevee’s Daily Walk
Complete daily missions and “walk with Eevee” to earn rewards based on the distance you’ve traveled. This is a fun, casual way to earn extra goodies while playing normally.
Trainer Icon Event Mission
Log in for 3 days to obtain an Eevee Trainer Icon. Additionally, participate in 5 battles each as Sylveon, Espeon, Leafeon, Glaceon, Umbreon, and Vaporeon to unlock their respective trainer icons.
Sweet Set 2 Event Pass
Complete daily and event missions to earn Event Pass points that unlock rewards at every tier. This pass often contains valuable items like Aeos Tickets, Item Enhancers, and exclusive cosmetics.
Prize Machine Challenge
The current prize machine lineup includes the Eevee Collection, featuring rewards such as Theater Style (Turquoise): Sylveon, Graceful Style: Umbreon, and Performer Style: Espeon.
Eevee Festival Commemorative Sale
Various Eeveelution Holowears are available at discounted prices until November 30th. If you love the Eevee family, this is a great time to pick up some stylish outfits for your favorites!
What Happens After the Event Ends?
The Vaporeon’s Refracted Melody Challenge runs until December 16, 2026. After this date, players will no longer be able to obtain Vaporeon for free through the event.
Once the event concludes, Vaporeon’s Unite License will become available in the regular shop for purchase using:
- Aeos Gems – Available immediately after event ends
- Aeos Coins – Expected to be available one week after release (standard pattern)
Important Note: Starting December 4, 2026, Aeos Coins will no longer be distributed in Pokemon Unite as part of the new License Journeys system. If you want to save your Aeos Coins for future purchases, make sure to claim your free Vaporeon license before the event ends!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get the free Vaporeon license?
Most players can unlock Vaporeon within 10-15 days of consistent daily play. If you use the re-roll feature strategically and collect all bonus dice from the Support Login Bonus and Coin Collection Challenge, you might complete it even faster.
Can I still get Vaporeon if I start the event late?
Yes! The event format is forgiving and doesn’t lock progress to daily milestones. As long as you start before mid-December and play consistently, you should be able to reach 1,000 Refracted Melody Coins before the December 16th deadline.
What happens if I miss a daily login?
You’ll lose that day’s die since you can only hold one daily die at a time. However, the bonus dice from companion events can help compensate for missed days. Just try not to miss too many!
Is Vaporeon good in the current meta?
Vaporeon is a solid Defender with unique healing and disruption capabilities. Its Water Absorb passive makes it incredibly tanky, and its moveset offers good crowd control for team fights. It’s particularly effective in coordinated team play where allies can benefit from Aqua Ring healing.
Can I buy Vaporeon with Aeos Coins instead?
Not during the event period. The Unite License is only available through the Refracted Melody Challenge. After December 16th, 2026, Vaporeon will be added to the shop.
Do I need to spend real money to get Vaporeon?
No! Vaporeon is completely free through the event. You don’t need to purchase any Aeos Gems or premium currency. Just log in daily, roll your dice, and collect your coins.
What other Eeveelutions are in Pokemon Unite?
Pokemon Unite currently features several Eevee evolutions: Sylveon, Espeon, Leafeon, Glaceon, Umbreon, and now Vaporeon. Each plays a different role with unique abilities.
Is Vaporeon better than other Defenders?
Vaporeon offers a unique playstyle focused on healing and disruption rather than pure tanking. It’s an excellent choice for players who want a Defender that can also support allies. Check our Pokemon Unite tier list for current meta rankings.
What’s the best battle item for Vaporeon?
Eject Button is generally recommended for repositioning and escape options. Potion is a simpler alternative that provides direct healing synergy with Vaporeon’s sustain-focused kit.
How does Vaporeon compare to other Eevee evolutions in Pokemon Unite?
Each Eeveelution fills a different role: Sylveon and Espeon are Attackers, while Glaceon, Leafeon, and Umbreon offer varied playstyles. Vaporeon is the only Defender Eeveelution, making it unique for players who prefer frontline tanking.
Conclusion
The Vaporeon’s Refracted Melody Challenge is one of the most generous new Pokemon release events Pokemon Unite has offered. With consistent daily logins and smart dice usage, any player can obtain this fantastic Ranged Defender completely free within two weeks.
Here’s your action checklist:
✅ Log into Pokemon Unite every day during the event
✅ Use your dice immediately (don’t let them expire)
✅ Collect bonus dice from companion events
✅ Use re-rolls strategically for higher movement
✅ Aim for 1,000 Refracted Melody Coins
✅ Claim the free 3-Day Trial from the Commemorative Event
✅ Exchange coins for the permanent Vaporeon License
The event runs until December 16, 2026, so you have plenty of time. But don’t procrastinate – start today and add this powerful Water-type Defender to your collection!