Table of Contents

How to Evolve Scyther in Pokémon Platinum: A Trainer’s Definitive Guide

So, you’ve got a Scyther in Pokémon Platinum – a blade-winged wonder with a serious power potential. But you’re looking to unlock that full potential, aren’t you? You want to see that evolution happen, to unleash the metallic magnificence that is Scizor. Well, you’ve come to the right place. The answer is straightforward: To evolve Scyther in Pokémon Platinum, you need to trade it while it’s holding a Metal Coat.

Yes, that’s the gist of it. But the devil, as they say, is in the details. Let’s dissect this process, explore the intricacies, and answer every burning question you might have about turning your Scyther into the fearsome Scizor.

The Metal Coat: The Key to Transformation

Acquiring the Precious Metal

The Metal Coat is the essential ingredient in this evolutionary recipe. Without it, your Scyther will remain a Scyther, no matter how many battles it wins. There are a few ways to acquire this valuable item in Pokémon Platinum:

Magnemite and Steelix: These Pokémon have a 5% chance of holding a Metal Coat when caught. You can find Magnemite in areas like Route 222 and the Valley Windworks. Steelix, on the other hand, can be found in caves and underground areas, notably the Iron Island. This method requires patience and a Pokémon with the Compound Eyes ability (like Butterfree or Yanma) to increase the chances of encountering a Pokémon holding an item. Use the move Thief or Covet to steal the item from a Pokémon holding it in battle.
Iron Island: This is arguably the most reliable method. After completing the events on Iron Island with Riley, return and search the island thoroughly. A Metal Coat can be found as a hidden item. Use your Dowsing Machine Pokétch app to easily locate the item.
Battle Tower: You can purchase a Metal Coat for 32 BP (Battle Points) at the Battle Tower. This requires some dedication to battling and earning those points, but it’s a guaranteed method if you’re willing to put in the time.

Equipping the Metal Coat

Once you’ve obtained your Metal Coat, the next step is simple: give it to your Scyther to hold. Navigate to your bag, select the Metal Coat, and choose “Give” followed by the name of your Scyther.

The Trade Evolution Process

Finding a Trading Partner

Here’s where things get a little trickier, especially if you’re playing on your own without access to another DS or Nintendo 3DS. Scyther evolves into Scizor only through trading. You’ll need a friend or another player willing to trade with you.

Local Wireless: If you have a friend nearby with a copy of Pokémon Platinum, Diamond, Pearl, HeartGold, or SoulSilver, you can trade via local wireless connection.
Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection (Defunct): Unfortunately, the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service, which allowed online trading, is no longer available for Nintendo DS games. This makes obtaining a Scizor in Pokemon Platinum much harder as it is no longer possible through official Nintendo services. If you wish to trade online you will need to use a ROM of the game on a PC, or a ROM on a device with a custom firmware.

Performing the Trade

Once you’ve connected with your trading partner, initiate a trade. Select your Scyther (holding the Metal Coat) and offer it in the trade. Once the trade is complete, your Scyther will evolve into Scizor right before your eyes! Don’t forget to have your trading partner trade Scizor back to you once it has evolved if you want to use it in your game!

Unleashing Scizor: What to Expect

A Powerful Transformation

Scizor is a significant upgrade from Scyther. It boasts a different typing (Bug/Steel), making it resistant to a plethora of types and immune to Poison-type moves. Scizor also gains a considerable boost in Attack and Defense stats.

Battling with Scizor

Scizor is a potent physical attacker. With its strong Attack stat and access to moves like Bullet Punch (a priority Steel-type move), X-Scissor, and Swords Dance, it can be a formidable force in battle. Its Steel typing grants it valuable resistances, making it a durable and versatile Pokémon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I evolve Scyther into Scizor without trading in Pokémon Platinum?

No. Trading while holding a Metal Coat is the only way to evolve Scyther into Scizor in Pokémon Platinum.

2. Is there a level requirement for Scyther to evolve into Scizor?

No, there is no level requirement. As long as Scyther is holding a Metal Coat when it is traded, it will evolve, regardless of its level.

3. Where is the Metal Coat located on Iron Island?

The Metal Coat is a hidden item found on Iron Island. Use your Dowsing Machine Pokétch app to locate it. It’s typically found on one of the upper floors of the cave system.

4. Is Scizor a good Pokémon to have on my team in Pokémon Platinum?

Absolutely! Scizor’s Bug/Steel typing, high Attack stat, and access to powerful moves make it a valuable addition to any team. It can handle a variety of opponents and serve as a strong offensive presence.

5. What are Scizor’s weaknesses?

Scizor’s Bug/Steel typing leaves it with a 4x weakness to Fire-type moves. Be cautious when facing Fire-type Pokémon.

6. What is the best nature for Scizor in Pokémon Platinum?

Generally, an Adamant nature (+Attack, -Special Attack) is preferred for Scizor, as it maximizes its physical attacking potential. A Jolly nature (+Speed, -Special Attack) can also be viable if you want Scizor to outspeed certain threats.

7. What are some good movesets for Scizor in Pokémon Platinum?

A common moveset includes:

Bullet Punch (STAB, Priority)
X-Scissor (STAB, High Power)
Swords Dance (Attack Boost)
Quick Attack/Night Slash (Coverage)

8. Can Scizor learn any good TMs in Pokémon Platinum?

Yes, Scizor can learn several useful TMs, including:

TM28 (Dig)
TM40 (Aerial Ace)
TM44 (Rest)

9. Does Scizor have a Mega Evolution?

Mega Evolution was introduced in Pokémon X and Y (Gen 6), which came after Pokémon Platinum (Gen 4). Scizor does get a Mega Evolution in later games, but not in Pokémon Platinum.

10. Can I use Action Replay codes to evolve Scyther into Scizor?

While Action Replay codes can be used to force evolution, it is generally not recommended. It can corrupt your save data or cause other issues with your game. Stick to the legitimate methods.

11. What’s the difference between Scyther and Scizor’s abilities?

Scyther typically has Swarm (Bug-type moves are stronger when HP is low) or Technician (weak moves have increased power). Scizor retains these abilities, but Technician is generally considered more useful, boosting the power of moves like Bullet Punch.

12. Is it worth the effort to evolve Scyther into Scizor in Pokémon Platinum, considering the trade requirement?

Absolutely! Scizor is a significant upgrade over Scyther and a powerful addition to any team. While the trade requirement can be a hurdle, the rewards are well worth the effort. Obtaining a Scizor will significantly boost your battling capabilities in Pokémon Platinum. If you intend to use your Scyther in a playthrough, it is highly recommended to evolve it as soon as possible.