The Great Candy Conundrum: Which Pokémon Demand the Most Sweets to Evolve?
So, you’re diving deep into the world of Pokémon, and you’ve probably encountered the bittersweet reality of evolution costs. Some pocket monsters practically leap into their next form with a handful of treats, while others… well, they demand a king’s ransom in candy! The Pokémon that needs the most candy to evolve is a tie between multiple species that require 400 candies. These Pokémon are: Magikarp (evolving into Gyarados), Wailmer (evolving into Wailord), Swablu (evolving into Altaria), Larvesta (evolving into Volcarona), Noibat (evolving into Noivern), Stufful (evolving into Bewear), Wimpod (evolving into Golisopod), and Meltan (evolving into Melmetal). Let’s break down why these demanding evolutions exist, and explore some other frequently asked questions about Pokémon evolution costs.
Why So Many Candies? The Logic Behind the Cost
Pokémon evolution isn’t just a random occurrence. In the core video games, evolution often signifies a dramatic change in power, stats, and even type. This translates into a significant time investment for players to build up their team in-game. In Pokémon GO, candies serve a similar purpose, acting as a gatekeeper that demands dedication from the trainer.
The Pokémon that need 400 candies to evolve are usually those that undergo a significant change in power or rarity. Magikarp, for example, is notoriously weak, but evolves into the immensely powerful Gyarados. This dramatic transformation justifies the high candy cost. Similarly, Pokémon like Larvesta into Volcarona and Noibat into Noivern are rare spawns and powerful fighters; hence the high candy cost. Here are some FAQs to dive deeper into the topic of candy and evolution in the Pokémon world:
Frequently Asked Questions About Pokémon Evolution Costs
1. Which Pokémon need 200 candies to evolve?
In the Pokémon world, very few Pokémon species need 200 candies to evolve. Boldore, Gurdurr, Karrablast, and Shelmet from Generation 5 require 200 candies each to evolve. However, this candy cost can be eliminated via trade.
2. Which Pokémon only take 12 candies to evolve?
If you’re looking for quick and easy evolutions for the purpose of gaining experience points, then focus on Pokémon that need only 12 candies. These include common Pokémon like Weedle, Caterpie, Whismur, Pidgey, and Wurmple. Catching a large number of them and evolving them during a Lucky Egg event is a great strategy for leveling up quickly.
3. What Pokémon takes the most levels to evolve?
Level-based evolutions can also require a significant time investment. Some Pokémon evolve at remarkably high levels in the core games. For instance, Hydreigon evolves from Zweilous at Level 64, followed by Dragapult, which evolves from Drakloak at Level 60, and Volcarona evolves from Larvesta at Level 59. Other Pokémon with high evolution levels include Dragonite, Tyranitar, and Baxcalibur.
4. Is there any Pokémon with 4 evolutions?
Despite some complex evolution chains, no Pokémon evolves four times. The maximum number of evolutions a single Pokémon can undergo is currently three, including Mega Evolution.
5. Why does Ash not evolve Pikachu?
In the Pokémon anime, the reason Ash’s Pikachu doesn’t evolve is purely based on the character’s choice. Pikachu does not want to evolve, and this was established early in the series, in the episode “Electric Shock Showdown.” This emphasizes the bond between Ash and Pikachu, where friendship and individual choice are more important than raw power.
6. What Pokémon only need 1 km for Candy?
In Pokémon GO, the distance you need to walk with a Pokémon as your buddy to earn a candy varies by species. Pokémon that only require 1 km of walking include common Pokémon like Caterpie, Pikachu, Magikarp, Aron, Wailmer, Bidoof, Purrloin, Sewaddle, Fletchling, and Skwovet. These are generally easier to obtain candy for.
7. What Pokémon evolves with 100 candies?
Several Pokémon require 100 candies to evolve. Examples include Hisuian Sneasel (evolving into Sneasler), Snorunt (evolving into either Glalie or Froslass, depending on gender and a special item), and Feebas (evolving into Milotic).
8. What is the hardest Pokémon to evolve in Pokemon GO?
The “hardest” Pokémon to evolve can be subjective, depending on access to resources and spawn rates. Some of the challenging evolutions include Pokémon requiring a specific item, tasks, or trades, like Feebas, Sliggoo, Inkay, Zweilous, Larvitar, Dragonair, Larvesta, and Magikarp. These either require rare candies, location specific evolutions or a trade.
9. What Pokémon cost 0 candy to evolve?
Certain Pokémon can be evolved without candy if they are traded with another player. Machoke, Haunter, and Boldore can have their candy cost for evolution reduced to zero if they are traded. This makes trading a valuable strategy for completing your Pokédex.
10. Do all Pokémon get XL Candy?
XL Candy is primarily associated with leveling Pokémon beyond Level 40 in Pokémon GO. While all Pokémon can theoretically provide XL Candy when caught, the guaranteed way to obtain it is by catching evolved forms of Pokémon. Basic Pokémon have a chance of dropping XL Candy, but it is not guaranteed.
11. Can you evolve without candy?
As mentioned earlier, certain Pokémon can be evolved without candy if they are received in a trade. This is a special mechanic designed to make trading more valuable and helps players complete their collections.
12. Can Eevee evolve with rare candy?
Rare Candies work by increasing a Pokémon’s level by 1 and can be used on Eevee. While Rare Candy can initiate level-based evolutions, special evolutions such as Umbreon which require high friendship or time of day factors still apply.
13. Does evolving Pokemon give XL candy?
Evolving Pokémon does not directly grant XL Candy. XL Candy is primarily obtained through catching Pokémon, hatching eggs, and trading. The evolved forms have a higher chance of dropping XL Candy.
14. What are the cheapest Pokémon to evolve?
As previously mentioned, the cheapest Pokémon to evolve are those that only require 12 candies. These include Pokémon like Weedle, Caterpie, Whismur, Pidgey, and Wurmple. They are ideal for mass evolutions to gain experience points quickly. Some minor Pokemon like Rattata occasionally become common and only need 25 to evolve.
15. What Pokémon should I save rare candy for?
Rare Candies are valuable resources, so it’s wise to use them strategically. The best Pokémon to use Rare Candies on are Legendary and Mythical Pokémon, as they are difficult to obtain candies for through normal gameplay. Additionally, Pokémon that require a large number of candies to evolve, like those needing 400 candies, are good candidates.
Navigating the world of Pokémon evolution requires understanding these candy costs and strategies. By knowing which Pokémon require the most candies and how to optimize your gameplay, you can effectively build a powerful team. The learning does not stop here! Consider the impact that gaming strategies, such as maximizing Pokémon evolutions, have on learning and engagement. For more information on the educational aspects of gaming, visit the GamesLearningSociety.org website. It explores how games promote learning, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.