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Evolving Graveler in SoulSilver: A Comprehensive Guide

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So, you’re playing Pokémon SoulSilver and you’ve got a Graveler itching to evolve into the mighty Golem. You’ve come to the right place! The classic method for evolving Graveler is through trading. Let’s break down exactly how to achieve this evolution and explore some alternative scenarios.

The Traditional Method: Trading is Key

In Pokémon SoulSilver, the primary way to evolve your Graveler into Golem is by trading it with another player. When Graveler is traded, the evolution to Golem is triggered immediately, regardless of Graveler’s level.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Find a Trading Partner: Locate a friend or another player who also has a Nintendo DS (or DS Lite, DSi, or 3DS) and a Pokémon game (Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, or SoulSilver). Communication is key! Make sure your friend is aware that you want your Golem back after the trade.
Prepare Your Graveler: Ensure your Graveler isn’t holding an Everstone. This item prevents Pokémon from evolving. You can check this in your Pokémon’s summary and remove the Everstone if necessary.
Head to a Pokémon Center: Visit any Pokémon Center in the game. Inside, you’ll find a lady behind the counter on the upper floor who handles the local wireless communication.
Initiate the Trade: Talk to the lady and select the option to trade. Both you and your trading partner must do this.
Enter the Trading Room: You’ll be transported to a trading room where you can see your trading partner’s character.
Select Graveler: Choose Graveler from your party and offer it for trade.
Confirm the Trade: Once your trading partner selects a Pokémon to trade back, review the trade and confirm.
Witness the Evolution: As soon as the trade is complete, Graveler will evolve into Golem!
Trade Back: Coordinate with your friend to trade Golem back to you.

This method guarantees you’ll get your Golem in SoulSilver!

Are There Alternatives to Trading?

Unfortunately, in the original SoulSilver game, there is no legitimate in-game method to evolve Graveler into Golem without trading. The game was designed to require interaction with other players for this specific evolution (and others like it, such as Kadabra into Alakazam and Machoke into Machamp).

Fan-Made Hacks (Use with Caution!)

The provided text mentions fan-made ROM hacks that alter the game to allow Graveler to evolve at a certain level (usually level 50). These hacks are for emulated versions of the game and are not officially supported. Modifying your game this way can lead to glitches or other issues. Furthermore, distributing or downloading ROMs of copyrighted games may be illegal in your area.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus Influence

It’s important to note that later Pokémon games, such as Pokémon Legends: Arceus, introduced new methods for evolving trade-evolution Pokémon without trading. Specifically, the Linking Cord item allows you to evolve Graveler into Golem without needing to trade. However, this item and method are not available in SoulSilver. Be mindful of using information from other games when trying to evolve your Graveler.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about evolving Graveler in SoulSilver, designed to clear up any confusion and provide additional useful information.

Can I evolve Graveler into Golem at a specific level in SoulSilver without trading?

No, Graveler cannot evolve into Golem based on level alone in SoulSilver. The only way to evolve it in the original game is through trading.
What happens if I cancel the trade before Graveler evolves?

If you cancel the trade before it completes, Graveler will not evolve. It will remain a Graveler in your party. The evolution is triggered at the moment the trade is finalized.
Does Graveler’s level matter when trading for evolution?

No, Graveler’s level does not matter. As soon as the trade is completed, it will evolve into Golem regardless of its current level.
What if I don’t have anyone to trade with? Am I stuck with Graveler forever?

In the absence of someone to trade with using the original SoulSilver hardware, you are effectively stuck with Graveler unless you resort to ROM hacks or other unofficial methods (see above caveats). Finding a trading partner is essential.
Can I use the Global Trade System (GTS) to trade Graveler and get Golem back in SoulSilver?

The Global Trade System (GTS), while functional, is risky for trade evolutions. There’s no guarantee the other person will trade Golem back. It’s always best to trade with a trusted friend.
Is there a specific item I can use to evolve Graveler instead of trading?

No, there is no item in SoulSilver that can be used to evolve Graveler. The Linking Cord method is exclusive to later games like Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
If I trade Graveler to a game that’s not Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, or SoulSilver, will it still evolve?

You cannot trade directly between SoulSilver and games from different generations. SoulSilver only trades with Gen IV games (Diamond, Pearl, Platinum, HeartGold, and SoulSilver). Therefore, Graveler cannot evolve if traded to other generations.
Can Graveler evolve into Alolan Golem in SoulSilver?

No, Alolan forms are not available in SoulSilver. Graveler will evolve into the original Kanto Golem.
Does holding an Everstone prevent Graveler from evolving during a trade?

Yes, holding an Everstone will prevent Graveler from evolving, even during a trade. Make sure to remove it before trading.
What other Pokémon evolve through trading in SoulSilver?

Besides Graveler, other Pokémon that evolve through trading in SoulSilver include:
- Kadabra (to Alakazam)
- Machoke (to Machamp)
- Haunter (to Gengar)
- Onix (to Steelix, when holding a Metal Coat)
- Scyther (to Scizor, when holding a Metal Coat)
- Porygon (to Porygon2, when holding an Up-Grade)
- Porygon2 (to Porygon-Z, when holding a Dubious Disc)
- Clamperl (to Huntail when holding a Deep Sea Tooth; to Gorebyss when holding a Deep Sea Scale)
What happens if my trading partner’s game glitches out during the trade?

A glitch during a trade can have various outcomes, from the trade failing and both Pokémon remaining unchanged, to the trade completing but with corrupted data. Always save your game before trading to minimize risk, and be prepared for potential issues.
Is it possible to find a Golem in the wild in SoulSilver?

No, Golem cannot be found in the wild in SoulSilver. The only way to obtain one is by evolving Graveler through trading.
If I trade a shiny Graveler, will it evolve into a shiny Golem?

Yes, if you trade a shiny Graveler, it will evolve into a shiny Golem. Shininess is a persistent characteristic that is retained through evolution.
Are there any differences in the evolution process between HeartGold and SoulSilver?

No, the evolution process for Graveler (and other trade evolutions) is identical in both HeartGold and SoulSilver.
Where can I learn more about Pokémon game design and mechanics?

Understanding the intricacies of Pokémon game design can enhance your appreciation for the series. A great resource for exploring game-based learning and design is the Games Learning Society, which you can find at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. GamesLearningSociety.org provides valuable insights into how games can be used for educational purposes and understanding complex systems.

Hopefully, this guide has cleared up any confusion about evolving Graveler into Golem in SoulSilver. Happy trading!