Can I Get Alakazam Without Trading? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is: generally, no, you cannot get Alakazam without trading in the main series Pokémon games. Alakazam, the evolved form of Kadabra, is one of the classic Pokémon that requires a trade to trigger its evolution. This requirement has been a staple since the first generation, making it a unique and sometimes frustrating challenge for trainers. However, there are some exceptions and workarounds depending on which game you are playing and whether you’re open to exploring unconventional methods. Let’s delve deeper into this often-asked question.
The Trade Evolution Mechanic
Why Trade Evolution?
For many years, a key mechanic in Pokémon games has been the use of trading to trigger certain evolutions. This was partly a design choice, encouraging players to interact, collaborate, and collect with one another. Pokémon such as Kadabra, Haunter, Graveler, and Machoke have all been subject to this trade-based evolution system. The game essentially treats the act of being traded as a form of “leveling up” that triggers the evolution to their final forms. This meant that to fill out your Pokédex, you had to have friends to trade with, making the game a more social experience.
Alakazam’s Case
Specifically, in the case of Kadabra evolving into Alakazam, the process is simple: trade a Kadabra and it will evolve instantly. This doesn’t require the Kadabra to hold a specific item or level up during the trade. As soon as the trade is complete, the Kadabra evolves into an Alakazam for the player receiving the trade.
Exceptions and Alternatives
Pokémon GO: A Notable Exception
The mobile game Pokémon GO breaks the traditional mold by offering a way to evolve Kadabra into Alakazam without trading. Instead of trading, you can evolve a Kadabra into Alakazam by spending 100 Kadabra Candies. This system was a great way to help players that did not have anyone to trade with still be able to fully evolve their Pokemon. This change has made Alakazam much more accessible to those playing the mobile game.
The Ditto Glitch in Pokémon Yellow
In the classic Pokémon Yellow version, there’s a glitch known as the Ditto Glitch that allows you to encounter certain Pokémon not normally available in the wild including Alakazam. While this glitch doesn’t involve evolving a Kadabra through traditional means, it does offer a way to obtain an Alakazam without trading. This method involves utilizing Pokémon with moves like Fly, Dig, or Teleport. However, this glitch requires a very specific and complex series of steps and is quite difficult to execute.
Emulator Workarounds
If you’re playing on an emulator, there are certain tools that can bypass trade evolution restrictions. Cheat codes or modified ROM files can make Pokémon evolve regardless of whether they’re traded. However, these methods are considered non-legitimate and should be used with caution. Using these can feel like cheating because you are essentially bypassing a main game mechanic. It’s also important to note that using these emulators might come with risks depending on the source.
NPC Trades (Unreliable and Still Trading)
Some games might include an NPC offering a Kadabra trade. These are rare, but if you find one, it will allow you to obtain an Alakazam. This is still technically a trade, but it involves a character within the game instead of a second player. These trades are usually single time events, so you only have one shot at trading. The selection of Pokémon given during NPC trades are also often not ideal, making this option not highly sought after.
No Wild Alakazam in Most Games
It’s crucial to understand that in most main series Pokémon games, Alakazam cannot be found in the wild. This design decision reinforces the importance of the trade evolution system for obtaining this specific Pokémon. In the most recent games this holds true, and you will not be able to find a wild Alakazam.
Trading: The Standard Method
Therefore, for the vast majority of Pokémon games, the standard way to acquire an Alakazam is by trading your Kadabra. You’ll need either another game cartridge and a friend or another console to trade. This involves trading your Kadabra to another player. After the trade is completed, your Kadabra will evolve into an Alakazam for your trading partner. Then they will need to trade the Alakazam back to you for you to have one.
FAQs About Getting Alakazam
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about obtaining Alakazam, providing further clarity and guidance:
1. Can you evolve Kadabra into Alakazam through leveling?
No. Kadabra does not evolve into Alakazam by leveling up. It evolves immediately upon being traded.
2. Can you get Alakazam without trading in Pokémon Brilliant Diamond or Shining Pearl?
Unfortunately, no, you cannot find a wild Alakazam or evolve a Kadabra into Alakazam without trading in Brilliant Diamond or Shining Pearl.
3. Is it possible to trade with yourself in Pokémon BDSP?
No, you need a second console to trade with yourself in Pokémon Brilliant Diamond or Shining Pearl.
4. Is Kadabra good without evolving?
Kadabra is okay on its own, but it’s significantly better to evolve it into Alakazam to increase its base stats and power. Kadabra does not have a very good base stat line on its own.
5. Do Kadabra and Alakazam learn the same moves?
Yes, Kadabra and Alakazam learn the same moves at the same levels. This means there’s no reason to wait on evolving Kadabra.
6. How does the Ditto Glitch help you get Alakazam in Pokémon Yellow?
The Ditto Glitch allows you to encounter various rare Pokémon, including Alakazam, by performing a specific series of actions in the game. This method is complicated and not reliable.
7. Can you find Alakazam in the wild in any Pokémon game?
In most games, Alakazam cannot be found in the wild, making trade evolution the primary method for obtaining one.
8. Is Alakazam a rare Pokémon?
While Alakazam itself isn’t “rare,” the need to trade for evolution can make obtaining one somewhat difficult or time-consuming for many trainers.
9. What level does Alakazam evolve at?
Alakazam does not evolve by leveling. It evolves immediately after the trading process is complete when a Kadabra is traded.
10. Why does Alakazam carry spoons?
Alakazam uses its psychic powers to make the spoons. Each spoon is unique and, if you’re trusted, they may let you have one.
11. Can Alakazam be female?
Yes, Alakazam can be female. Female Alakazam have a shorter mustache compared to their male counterparts.
12. Why didn’t my Kadabra evolve when traded?
If your Kadabra didn’t evolve after trading, you might have experienced a server glitch. Try trading again on another server if the trade failed.
13. Is it better to evolve Kadabra into Alakazam immediately?
Yes. There’s no reason to wait, as Alakazam has much higher stats, and they learn the same moves at the same level.
14. What happens if you don’t evolve Abra?
If you don’t evolve Abra, you’ll be stuck with only TM moves and won’t be able to unlock it’s powerful evolved forms.
15. Is Alakazam powerful?
Yes, Alakazam is very powerful, especially with its high special attack stats and it’s fast speed. It’s very effective in battles.
Conclusion
While getting Alakazam might seem challenging due to its reliance on trade evolution, it’s a core mechanic of the Pokemon games. In most main series games you must trade your Kadabra to a friend or second device to evolve it. While there are some exceptions, such as Pokémon GO, the ability to trade has been a staple of the series. Understanding these mechanics and workarounds allows players to fully enjoy the Pokémon experience and complete their Pokédex. Whether you choose to follow the standard trade method or explore unique glitches, obtaining an Alakazam can be a rewarding experience.