Trading Up: Unlocking Free Evolutions in Pokémon Games
So, you’re looking to evolve your Pokémon without burning through all your precious candies? The good news is, some Pokémon games offer mechanics that allow you to evolve certain Pokémon for free after trading. Let’s dive into how this works, specifically focusing on games like Pokémon GO, and explore what you need to know to take advantage of these candy-free evolutions.
The Trade Evolution Advantage
The core concept revolves around trade evolutions. Certain Pokémon are specifically designed to evolve only when they are traded to another player. In some games, including Pokémon GO, once you receive one of these Pokémon in a trade, it permanently gains the ability to evolve without requiring any candies. This is a huge advantage, especially for Pokémon that typically require a large number of candies to evolve.
Here’s a list of Pokémon that traditionally benefit from this trade-then-free-evolution mechanic, though specific availability may vary by game:
- Kadabra evolves into Alakazam
- Machoke evolves into Machamp
- Graveler evolves into Golem (both Kantonian and Alolan forms)
- Haunter evolves into Gengar
- Boldore evolves into Gigalith
- Gurdurr evolves into Conkeldurr
- Karrablast evolves into Escavalier
- Shelmet evolves into Accelgor
Keep in mind that the specific mechanics and availability of these trade evolution bonuses can change with game updates and versions. Always check the current game information for the most accurate details.
Navigating Trade Evolution in Pokémon GO
Pokémon GO offers a streamlined system for trade evolutions. If a Pokémon is eligible for trade evolution, you’ll see a special trade icon next to the “Evolve” button on its summary page after you’ve received it in a trade. This indicates that the candy cost has been waived. The beauty of this system is that you still retain the Pokémon that you traded over to your friend.
It’s important to note that trading itself isn’t free. Trading in Pokémon GO requires Stardust, and the cost can vary greatly depending on your friendship level with the other player and whether the Pokémon is already registered in your Pokédex. Mythical Pokemon, for example, will be more expensive to trade. Building a high friendship level is the key to minimizing these Stardust costs.
Now, let’s tackle some frequently asked questions to clarify other aspects of trading and evolving in the world of Pokémon. For insights into the broader educational impact of gaming, explore resources like the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I trade any Pokémon?
No, there are restrictions. Mythical Pokémon, Shadow Pokémon, Pokémon currently defending a Gym, Pokémon that have already been traded, and Pokémon obtained through hacking cannot be traded. Eggs also can’t be traded. Also, Pokémon that are fainted or not at full health can’t be traded. There might be other restrictions, such as your current buddy.
2. How much does it cost to trade a Shiny Pokémon?
Trading Shiny Pokémon is one of the most expensive trades you can make, potentially costing 1,000,000 Stardust at base. However, increasing your friendship level with the player you’re trading with will significantly reduce the cost.
3. Can I trade a Pokémon back to the original trainer?
While you can trade a Pokémon back to its original trainer, remember that Pokémon GO does not allow Pokémon to be traded more than once. Once a Pokémon has been traded, that’s its final destination. There’s no “undo” button.
4. Why do some Pokémon require 400 candies to evolve?
Certain Pokémon, such as Magikarp, Wailmer, Swablu, Larvesta, Noibat, Stufful, Wimpod, and Meltan, are designed to be particularly challenging to evolve. The high candy requirement makes evolving them a long-term goal and a significant achievement.
5. What are the easiest Pokémon to evolve in general?
Pokémon with low evolution levels or simple evolution requirements are typically considered the easiest to evolve. This often includes the starter Pokémon of each region, as well as Pokémon like Caterpie and Weedle, which evolve quickly at low levels.
6. How do walking evolutions work?
In games like Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, some Pokémon like Pawmo, Rellor, and Bramblin require you to walk a certain distance (approximately 1,000 steps) in the game’s overworld using the “Let’s Go” feature before they can evolve when leveled up.
7. Can I evolve Haunter without trading in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?
Yes, you can evolve Haunter without trading in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. You can do this via an in-game trade by talking to Blossom and trading her a Pinchurcin.
8. What happens if I use a Rare Candy on a Pokémon that evolves by leveling up?
Using a Rare Candy will instantly level up the Pokémon. If the Pokémon evolves by leveling up and the level gained from the Rare Candy meets the evolution requirement, it will evolve immediately.
9. What if my Pawmo doesn’t evolve after walking 1,000 steps?
Make sure you’ve actually walked the full 1,000 steps (or more) with Pawmo in “Let’s Go” mode. After walking the required distance, level up Pawmo again, and it should trigger the evolution.
10. Are there any Pokémon that are better not to evolve?
Sometimes, a Pokémon’s unevolved form can be strategically advantageous in certain battles or game modes. For example, Pikachu might be preferred over Raichu due to its iconic status and unique move sets it can learn.
11. Is trading available in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?
Yes, trading is available in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, both online and via local wireless connection. You’ll need a Nintendo Switch Online membership to use the online features.
12. What factors influence the Stardust cost of a trade in Pokémon GO?
The Stardust cost is determined by:
- Friendship Level: Higher friendship levels between trainers reduce the cost.
- Pokédex Registration: Trading Pokémon already registered in both trainers’ Pokédexes is cheaper.
- Rarity: Rarer Pokémon, especially Shiny or Legendary Pokémon, have higher Stardust costs.
13. Can I evolve other Pokemon in Pokémon GO by walking?
No, as of the current date, trading is one method, and there are no other methods in Pokémon GO to trigger evolution by walking a set amount of steps.
14. Can I trade a Pokemon more than once in Pokémon GO?
No, once a Pokémon has been traded in Pokémon GO, it cannot be traded again.
15. Where Can I learn more about the benefits of gaming?
To learn more about the benefits of gaming, explore resources like the GamesLearningSociety.org, which offers a variety of information on gaming and it’s learning potential.
Trading and Evolving: A Rewarding Mechanic
By understanding the nuances of trade evolutions and the Stardust costs associated with trading, you can strategically plan your Pokémon evolution strategy. Embrace trading to unlock those candy-free evolutions and build your ultimate team. Good luck, trainers!