What Stone Makes Onix Evolve? The Ultimate Guide
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The answer is: Onix evolves into Steelix when traded while holding a Metal Coat. It’s not a stone at all, but a held item that triggers evolution through trading! Now, let’s delve into the specifics of this unique evolution method and answer all your burning questions.
Understanding Onix and Steelix
Onix, the Rock Snake Pokémon, is a Gen 1 classic known for its imposing size and rock-solid defenses. However, its Special Defense leaves much to be desired. Steelix, its evolved form, is a Steel/Ground type that retains the high Defense stat of its pre-evolution but gains a significant boost to its Attack and Special Defense, making it a much more versatile and powerful Pokémon.
The Importance of the Metal Coat
The Metal Coat is a crucial item in the evolution process. It’s not enough to simply trade an Onix; it must be holding the Metal Coat at the time of the trade for it to evolve into Steelix. The Metal Coat itself is a valuable item, as it also boosts the power of Steel-type moves when held.
How to Evolve Onix into Steelix: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Obtain an Onix: Catch an Onix in areas where it spawns. The specific locations will depend on the Pokémon game you’re playing.
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Find a Metal Coat: Locate a Metal Coat. The methods for obtaining this item vary across different games and are discussed in the FAQs below.
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Give the Metal Coat to Onix: Have your Onix hold the Metal Coat. This is usually done through the “Hold Item” option in the Pokémon’s summary screen.
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Trade Onix: Trade the Onix (holding the Metal Coat) with a trusted friend. Remember that once the trade is complete, the Onix will evolve into Steelix on your friend’s side before being traded back.
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Trade Back (Optional): If you want the Steelix on your own team, have your friend trade it back to you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Onix and Steelix
1. Can I evolve Onix into Steelix without trading?
No, trading is a mandatory step for Onix to evolve into Steelix. The presence of the Metal Coat alone will not trigger the evolution. Without trading, Onix will remain an Onix.
2. Where can I find the Metal Coat in [Game Name]?
The location of the Metal Coat varies depending on the Pokémon game. Here are a few examples:
- Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal: Found on Route 37 or from wild Magnemite or wild Skarmory (rare).
- Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald: Held by wild Magnemite, wild Skarmory, or wild Beldum (rare) and can be found on the S.S. Tidal.
- Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen: Can be obtained through trading with other games.
- Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum: Found on Iron Island or held by wild Steelix (rare) and wild Bronzor (rare).
- Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver: Found on Route 37 or held by wild Magnemite or wild Skarmory (rare).
- Pokémon Black and White: Held by wild Beldum (rare) and found on Route 13.
- Pokémon Black 2 and White 2: Held by wild Beldum (rare) and found on Route 13.
- Pokémon X and Y: Held by wild Skarmory (rare) and found in the Terminus Cave.
- Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire: Held by wild Magnemite, wild Skarmory, or wild Beldum (rare) and can be found on the S.S. Tidal.
- Pokémon Sun and Moon: Held by wild Magnemite (rare) and found in the Hau’oli Outskirts.
- Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon: Held by wild Magnemite (rare) and found in the Hau’oli Outskirts.
- Pokémon Sword and Shield: Can be found in the Wild Area (Bridge Field) and purchased for BP at the Battle Tower. Held by wild Bronzor (rare).
- Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl: Found on Iron Island or held by wild Steelix (rare) and wild Bronzor (rare).
- Pokémon Legends: Arceus: Can be purchased from the Trading Post using Merit Points or found in space-time distortions.
- Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: Can be purchased from Delibird Presents or found in Area Zero.
3. Does the level of Onix matter for evolution?
No, the level of Onix does not affect its ability to evolve. As long as it is holding the Metal Coat during the trade, it will evolve regardless of its level.
4. What are Steelix’s strengths and weaknesses?
Steelix is a Steel/Ground type, making it strong against Electric, Rock, Steel, Fire, and Poison type moves. However, it is weak to Water, Fire, Fighting, and Ground type moves. Its high Defense stat allows it to withstand physical attacks effectively.
5. Is Steelix a good Pokémon to use in battles?
Steelix can be a valuable asset in battles, especially in teams that need a strong defensive wall. Its high Defense and decent Attack stats, combined with its Steel/Ground typing, allow it to resist many common attack types and deal considerable damage.
6. Are there any differences between Steelix and Mega Steelix?
Yes, Mega Steelix is a significantly stronger form of Steelix achieved through Mega Evolution. It boasts a massive increase in Defense, making it one of the bulkiest Pokémon available. Its Special Defense and Special Attack also receive boosts. However, Mega Evolution is only available in specific Pokémon games (Gen VI and VII).
7. What abilities can Steelix have?
Steelix can have the abilities Rock Head (prevents recoil damage), Sturdy (prevents one-hit KO moves), or Sheer Force (boosts the power of moves with secondary effects but removes those effects). Mega Steelix has the ability Sand Force (boosts the power of Ground, Rock, and Steel-type moves in a sandstorm).
8. Can I use an Everstone to prevent Onix from evolving?
Yes, you can use an Everstone to prevent Onix from evolving when traded. If Onix is holding an Everstone, it will not evolve into Steelix, even if it is holding a Metal Coat during the trade.
9. Are there any alternative ways to get a Steelix without trading?
In some games, such as Pokémon Legends: Arceus, Steelix can be found in the wild, specifically in space-time distortions. This provides an alternative to obtaining Steelix without needing to trade.
10. What is the Shiny version of Steelix like?
The Shiny Steelix is a striking golden color, a stark contrast to the regular Steelix’s grey appearance. Many trainers seek to obtain a Shiny Steelix due to its unique and eye-catching design.
11. Does the region of origin affect Steelix’s stats or moveset?
No, the region of origin does not affect Steelix’s stats or moveset. A Steelix obtained in one region will have the same stats and available moves as a Steelix obtained in another region.
12. What are some recommended movesets for Steelix?
Some popular movesets for Steelix include:
- Stealth Rock: Sets up entry hazards.
- Earthquake: Powerful Ground-type STAB move.
- Iron Head: Reliable Steel-type STAB move.
- Stone Edge: Strong Rock-type coverage move.
- Toxic: Inflicts poison on opponents.
- Protect: Scouts opponent’s moves.
13. How does Steelix perform in competitive battles?
Steelix can be a viable choice in competitive battles, particularly in formats where its defensive capabilities and access to moves like Stealth Rock are valuable. Its Mega Evolution, Mega Steelix, is a formidable defensive wall.
14. Does the held Metal Coat increase Shiny Onix´s chances of becoming a Shiny Steelix after a trade?
No, the held Metal Coat does not affect the chances of a Shiny Onix becoming a Shiny Steelix. If the Onix is Shiny, the resulting Steelix will also be Shiny upon evolution during the trade. Shiny status is determined independently of held items.
15. What is the best nature for Steelix?
The best nature for Steelix depends on its intended role. An Impish or Adamant nature can be good for maximizing its physical defense or attack, respectively. A Careful nature can improve its Special Defense. Generally, avoid natures that lower its Attack, Defense, or Special Defense, as these are its key stats.
By understanding these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to evolve your Onix into a powerful Steelix and utilize it effectively in your Pokémon adventures! Good luck, Trainer!