Can You Evolve From Rare Candy? The Definitive Guide
Yes, in many Pokémon games, Rare Candy can indeed trigger an evolution, provided the Pokémon meets the necessary level or conditions for that evolution. This includes scenarios where a Pokémon evolves simply by leveling up. Think of it as a shortcut, bypassing the need for traditional battles or experience grinding to reach that critical evolution level. However, it’s crucial to understand the nuances across different generations and game mechanics. Let’s dive into the specifics of how Rare Candies interact with evolution in the Pokémon universe.
Rare Candy and Evolution: A Deep Dive
The interaction between Rare Candy and evolution isn’t uniform across all Pokémon games. The effect often depends on the specific game mechanics:
Core Series Games
In the core series games (like Pokémon Red/Blue, Gold/Silver, Ruby/Sapphire, etc.), using a Rare Candy will automatically trigger an evolution if the Pokémon levels up and satisfies the evolution requirements. These requirements could be a specific level, a certain friendship level, or even holding a specific item. For example, if your Pikachu is at level 39 and needs to reach level 40 to evolve (although Pikachu evolves with a Thunder Stone, this is just for illustrative purpose), using a Rare Candy will level it up to 40 and initiate the evolution process, assuming no other evolution condition applies. However, you will have to evolve Pikachu using a Thunder Stone, leveling up will not trigger the evolution.
Pokémon GO
In Pokémon GO, Rare Candy doesn’t directly trigger evolution. Instead, Rare Candy is converted into species-specific candy, which is then used for powering up and evolving Pokémon. So, if you have a Porygon that needs 50 Porygon Candies to evolve, you can convert Rare Candies into Porygon Candies to meet that requirement. GO introduced a new mechanic, XL Candy. Once you are Trainer Level 31, you can obtain XL Candy which can evolve Pokemon past level 40.
Other Spin-off Games
Some spin-off games have unique mechanics. For instance, in older versions of Pokémon Stadium, Rare Candies wouldn’t trigger evolution or move learning. It’s always best to consult the specific game’s mechanics.
Understanding Evolution Conditions
Before relying on Rare Candy for evolution, understand the various conditions that trigger evolutions in the Pokemon world:
Level-Based Evolution
This is the most straightforward. Some Pokémon evolve simply upon reaching a certain level, such as Bulbasaur evolving into Ivysaur at level 16.
Item-Based Evolution
Certain Pokémon require specific evolution items alongside candies. For example, evolving a Scyther into Scizor requires a Metal Coat item.
Friendship-Based Evolution
Some Pokémon, like Golbat (into Crobat), evolve based on their friendship level. Maximize their friendship and then use a Rare Candy (or battle) to level them up, triggering the evolution.
Location-Based Evolution
Some Pokémon may evolve only when leveled up in a specific location. For example, Magneton evolves into Magnezone when leveled up in a location with a strong magnetic field (like Mt. Coronet in Diamond/Pearl).
Time-Based Evolution
Some Pokémon evolve at a particular time of day. For example, Eevee can evolve into Espeon during the day with high friendship or Umbreon during the night with high friendship.
Maximizing Rare Candy Usage
To make the most of your Rare Candies in evolving Pokemon, consider these strategies:
- Prioritize Rare Pokémon: Use Rare Candies on Pokémon that are difficult to find or catch, like Legendaries or Mythicals.
- Understand Evolution Requirements: Always check the specific evolution method for the Pokémon you want to evolve.
- Combine with Other Methods: For Friendship Evolutions, maximize friendship first, then use the Rare Candy.
- Strategic Timing: Hold off on using Rare Candies until you’re close to meeting an evolution requirement.
FAQs About Rare Candy and Evolution
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the role of Rare Candy in Pokémon evolution:
1. Does Rare Candy always trigger evolution?
No, Rare Candy will only trigger an evolution if the Pokémon meets the required conditions, such as reaching a certain level, having sufficient friendship, or possessing a specific item. If those conditions are not met, the Rare Candy will simply increase the Pokémon’s level without causing evolution.
2. Can I use Rare Candy to evolve a Pokémon that requires an evolution item?
Yes, you can use a Rare Candy to evolve a Pokémon that requires an evolution item, but only after you’ve given it the item. The Rare Candy acts as the level-up trigger that activates the evolution when all other conditions are met.
3. What happens if I use Rare Candy on a Pokémon that is already at level 100?
In most Pokémon games, level 100 is the level cap. Using a Rare Candy on a level 100 Pokémon will have no effect, and the item will be wasted. However, there might be certain Pokemon at lvl 100 that you can evolve with Rare Candy. For example, you can evolve any Pokémon at level 100. To evolve your level 100 Bisharp, simply have it defeat three wild Bisharp leading a pack of Pawniard.
4. Does Rare Candy affect the stats of my evolved Pokémon?
Using Rare Candies prevents you from gaining EV’s as you level up, making your pokemon weaker overall. However, they’re pretty useful in-game because you gain EV’s throughout the game. Besides, three levels would make nearly no difference.
5. Can Rare Candy be used to evolve Pokémon in Pokémon GO?
No, Rare Candy in Pokémon GO is converted into regular candy for the species of Pokémon you choose. These species-specific candies, along with Stardust, are used to evolve Pokémon in GO.
6. Are there any downsides to using Rare Candy for evolution?
One potential downside is the impact on Effort Values (EVs). Training through battles typically awards EVs, which directly affect a Pokémon’s stats. Using Rare Candy bypasses this EV training, potentially making your Pokémon less optimized than if it had been trained through battles.
7. Can I use Rare Candy to evolve a Pokémon with a friendship requirement?
Yes, but only after the Pokémon has reached the required friendship level. Once the friendship is high enough, using a Rare Candy will trigger the evolution.
8. Can Rare Candy trigger location-based evolutions?
Rare Candies can trigger a location-based evolution only if used in the correct location.
9. What are XL Candies, and how do they relate to Rare Candies?
XL Candies are a special type of candy in Pokémon GO that allows you to power up your Pokémon past level 40. Rare Candies can be converted into XL Candies, enabling you to boost your Pokémon’s CP even further. However, you can only start receiving XL Candy once you are Trainer Level 31.
10. Can I evolve a Magikarp with Rare Candy?
In the core series games, yes, if you level up Magikarp with a Rare Candy at or above level 20, it will evolve into Gyarados. In Pokémon GO, you would convert the Rare Candy into Magikarp Candy and feed Magikarp 400 Candies, it will evolve into Gyarados.
11. How do I get more Rare Candies in Pokémon games?
Rare Candies can be found in various ways, including:
- In-game events and quests
- Hidden items scattered throughout the game world
- Raid battles (especially in Pokémon GO)
- As rewards for completing certain challenges
12. Is it better to use Rare Candy on Legendary or common Pokémon?
It’s generally considered better to use Rare Candy on Legendary Pokémon. Legendary Pokémon are often difficult to obtain candies for, as they don’t appear frequently in the wild and are primarily acquired through raids or special events.
13. What level do I need to be in Pokémon GO to start getting XL Candies?
You need to be Trainer Level 31 in Pokémon GO to start receiving XL Candies.
14. Can I evolve Cosmog with Rare Candy?
Yes, you can use Rare Candy to evolve Cosmog into Cosmoem. Reaching the eighth stage of the quest should give you enough Cosmog candy to evolve Cosmoem, but you can also use a Rare Candy or have the Pokémon as your buddy.
15. What Pokémon need 400 candies to evolve?
Being a part of two stage Pokémon family, Magikarp, Wailmer, Swablu, Larvesta, Noibat, Stufful, Wimpod and Meltan need 400 Candies each to evolve into Gyarados, Wailord, Altaria, Volcarona, Noivern, Bewear, Golisopod and Melmetal respectively.
Conclusion
Rare Candy can indeed be a valuable tool for triggering evolutions in the Pokémon world. However, it’s essential to understand the specific mechanics and requirements for each Pokémon and game to maximize its effectiveness. By knowing when and how to use Rare Candy, you can efficiently evolve your favorite Pokémon and build a powerful team. Always stay informed about the latest game updates and evolution methods to optimize your gameplay. And remember, the Games Learning Society offers valuable insights into the educational aspects of gaming, including Pokémon! You can explore more at GamesLearningSociety.org. Happy training!