A creative Pokémon fan has recently unveiled an original future Paradox Form for the Gen 6 Electric-type Pokémon Heliolisk, giving the lizard-like creature a sleek, robotic upgrade. Titled “Iron Rod,” this new form is part of the growing trend among artists who reimagine classic Pokémon through the lens of Paradox Forms introduced in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
Heliolisk first appeared in Pokémon X and Y and is known for its unique Electric/Normal typing and strong special attack moves like Thunderbolt and Electrify. Originally evolved from Helioptile using a Sun Stone, the Pokémon has now been given a speculative future version that’s turning heads in the fan community.
Reddit user DefeatedPanda shared their artwork of Iron Rod, a Future Paradox Form of Heliolisk that reimagines the Pokémon as an Electric/Fire-type. The design transforms Heliolisk into a metallic, solar-powered reptile with a solar panel disk around its long neck and a futuristic, rounded head. According to the artist, Iron Rod absorbs sunlight through its neck panel on clear days and channels lightning during storms using its extended neck as a thunder rod — a fitting detail for its Electric/Fire combination.
The fan art has gained attention for its clever use of Paradox Pokémon lore, where creatures are either ancient or futuristic reimaginings of known species. While Iron Rod isn’t an official design from Game Freak, fans have praised its originality and lore accuracy, with many expressing a desire to see it featured in a future Pokémon game.
As Pokémon continues to evolve, the fandom’s creativity remains electric — and Iron Rod proves just how powerful community-driven concepts can be.