The Art of the Trade: Unveiling Pokémon Evolution Through Exchange

Ah, the thrill of the trade! For many of us who grew up in the late 90s and early 2000s, trading Pokémon was more than just swapping digital pocket monsters; it was a social ritual, a test of strategy, and sometimes, the only way to complete the elusive Pokédex. But beyond the camaraderie, there’s a core game mechanic at play: trade evolution.

So, what Pokémon are actually eligible for trade evolution? Currently, the following Pokémon species evolve upon being traded:

• Kadabra evolves into Alakazam
• Machoke evolves into Machamp
• Graveler evolves into Golem
• Haunter evolves into Gengar
• Boldore evolves into Gigalith
• Gurdurr evolves into Conkeldurr
• Karrablast evolves into Escavalier (when traded for Shelmet)
• Shelmet evolves into Accelgor (when traded for Karrablast)
• Phantump evolves into Trevenant
• Pumpkaboo evolves into Gourgeist
• Rhydon evolves into Rhyperior (when traded holding a Protector)
• Electabuzz evolves into Electivire (when traded holding an Electirizer)
• Magmar evolves into Magmortar (when traded holding a Magmarizer)
• Porygon evolves into Porygon2 (when traded holding an Up-Grade)
• Porygon2 evolves into Porygon-Z (when traded holding a Dubious Disc)
• Clamperl evolves into Huntail (when traded holding a Deep Sea Tooth)
• Clamperl evolves into Gorebyss (when traded holding a Deep Sea Scale)
• Feebas evolves into Milotic (when traded holding a Prism Scale)
• Scyther evolves into Scizor (when traded holding a Metal Coat)
• Onix evolves into Steelix (when traded holding a Metal Coat)
• Slowpoke evolves into Slowking (when traded holding a King’s Rock)
• Poliwhirl evolves into Politoed (when traded holding a King’s Rock)
• Dusclops evolves into Dusknoir (when traded holding a Reaper Cloth)

This list covers all the Pokémon that require trading as a condition for their evolution. Now, let’s delve into some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the nuances of trade evolutions.

Trade Evolution: Deeper Dive

FAQs About Pokémon Trade Evolutions

This section tackles the burning questions surrounding trade evolution, from the core mechanics to the items involved, and even the modern adaptations found in Pokémon GO and Pokémon Legends: Arceus.

How does trade evolution actually work?

The underlying principle is straightforward: when a specific Pokémon is traded between players (or between a player and the game’s server in some games), it triggers an evolution upon arrival at its destination. However, the finer points can vary between generations. The base requirement is always the trade itself. However, some Pokémon also require holding a specific item during the trade to evolve. The game code recognizes the trade event and the Pokémon’s species, initiating the evolution sequence automatically.

Do traded Pokémon keep their stats and moves?

Yes! The traded Pokémon retain their original stats, movesets, IVs (Individual Values), EVs (Effort Values), and natures. Trading is purely a mechanic to trigger the evolution, not a stat reset or move re-roller. Therefore, careful training and move selection before trading remain crucial.

What is the purpose of trade evolution? Why does it exist?

From a gameplay perspective, trade evolution encourages social interaction and collaboration between players. It creates a sense of community and necessitates reliance on others to complete the Pokédex. Lore-wise, the reasoning is less consistent but often implies that the energy of the trade itself acts as a catalyst for evolution, or that the held items somehow focus or redirect the Pokémon’s evolutionary path.

Do I need a specific version of the game to trade evolve?

Generally, no. Trade evolution is independent of the game version. What does matter is compatibility. Pokémon games from the same generation (e.g., Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue) can typically trade with each other. However, trading across different generations (e.g., from Pokémon Red to Pokémon Gold) is usually impossible without specific transfer mechanics (like Pokémon Bank for 3DS games).

Can I trade evolve with myself?

Traditionally, no. Trade evolution inherently requires two separate game cartridges/consoles and two players. However, certain emulators and fan-made modifications might offer workarounds, but these are not officially supported by Nintendo or Game Freak. In single-player games like Pokémon GO or Pokémon Legends: Arceus, alternative methods for evolving these Pokémon are often available.

What are Held Items for Trade Evolution?

Some Pokémon require a specific held item during the trade to trigger the correct evolution. These items influence the specific form the Pokémon evolves into. Examples include the Metal Coat for Scizor/Steelix, the King’s Rock for Politoed/Slowking, and the Electirizer for Electivire. The held item is consumed upon evolution.

Where can I find the necessary Held Items?

The availability of held items varies drastically between games. They might be found randomly on the ground, obtained as rewards for completing in-game tasks, purchased from specific shops, or even held by wild Pokémon. Consulting a reliable Pokémon database or game guide specific to the game you are playing is the best way to locate these items.

How has Pokémon GO adapted trade evolution?

Pokémon GO introduced a modified system. While trading is still required, some Pokémon that evolve via trade in the main series games can be evolved without trading. Instead, you can spend Pokémon Candy and sometimes complete special research tasks to evolve them. Furthermore, trading reduces the candy cost for evolving specific Pokemon. This is because it would be otherwise difficult to trade without an easy way to link up to others.

Does Pokémon Legends: Arceus use trade evolution?

Pokémon Legends: Arceus has streamlined the evolution process. While trading is still possible, it is no longer necessary for evolving these Pokémon. Held items used for trade evolutions in previous games can now be used directly on the Pokémon in your party to trigger the evolution, without requiring a trade. A simple and elegant solution to a classic problem.

Is there a risk of getting scammed during trade evolution?

Absolutely! In the early days, the “tradeback” was a sacred pact. You’d trade your Machoke, the other person would receive their Machamp, and you’d trade back. However, some unscrupulous trainers would abscond with your newly evolved Pokémon. Always trade with trusted friends or use reputable online communities with established feedback systems to minimize the risk of being scammed.

Are there any Pokémon that used to evolve by trade but no longer do?

No. There are no Pokémon that used to evolve by trade but do not any longer. Pokémon either evolve by trade, or by some other method, but the methods do not overlap.

Does the traded Pokémon’s level affect trade evolution?

No, the traded Pokémon’s level does not affect the evolution. Regardless of whether the Pokémon is level 5 or level 100, the evolution will trigger upon successful completion of the trade and compliance with any item requirements.

The world of Pokémon evolution is complex and constantly evolving (pun intended!). Understanding the nuances of trade evolution, including the specific Pokémon and items involved, is essential for any aspiring Pokémon Master. So, gather your friends, equip your held items, and embark on the fulfilling journey of trade evolution! You are now fully equipped to navigate the intricate world of trade evolutions!