Pokemon Go, the smash hit augmented reality game, has captured the hearts of trainers worldwide. Evolving your favorite Pokemon is a core part of the experience, but some require a unique twist – the power of friendship (or at least, proximity) through trading with another player.
This article delves into the intricacies of trade-involved Pokemon evolution in Pokemon Go, exploring its mechanics, strategies, and the reasons behind this system.
Understanding Trade Evolution
Unlike the mainline Pokemon games where specific Pokemon evolve solely through trading, Pokemon Go takes a slightly different approach.
Here, certain Pokemon require being traded with another trainer before they can evolve using the standard candy evolution method. This mechanic injects a social layer into the game, encouraging interaction and collaboration between trainers.
The Tradeable Evolution Crew
Not all Pokemon are created equal when it comes to evolution. Here’s a distinguished list of Pokemon that require the power of trade to unlock their final forms:
Machoke -> Machamp: This powerful Fighting-type Pokemon is a coveted addition to any trainer’s battle roster. Trading a Machoke unlocks its potential to become the formidable Machamp.
Graveler -> Golem: The Rock and Ground-type Graveler transforms into the defensive powerhouse Golem after a trade.
Kadabra -> Alakazam: This Psychic-type powerhouse awaits its true potential after being traded. Prepare to witness Kadabra’s transformation into the mighty Alakazam.
Haunter -> Gengar: The mischievous Ghost and Poison-type Haunter takes a step towards becoming the fearsome Gengar after a trade.
Boldore -> Gigalith: This Rock-type specialist requires a trade to evolve into the mighty Gigalith.
Pumpkaboo (certain forms) -> Gourgeist (certain forms): Not all Pumpkaboo are created equal. Only specific forms of Pumpkaboo can evolve into Gourgeist after being traded.
Phantump -> Trevenant: This Grass and Ghost-type Pokemon needs the power of trade to evolve into the imposing Trevenant.
The Trading Process: A Trainer’s Guide
So, you’ve encountered a Pokemon that requires trade evolution. Here’s what you need to know:
Find a Trading Partner: The first step is to locate a fellow trainer who possesses the Pokemon you need to evolve (and ideally, vice versa for mutual benefit). Look for friends who play the game or connect with local Pokemon Go communities through social media or online forums.
Initiate the Trade: Both trainers need to be in close physical proximity (Bluetooth or close-range depending on the operating system). Open the Trainer menu, select “Trade,” and choose the Pokemon you’re offering.
Confirm the Trade: A crucial aspect – the Stardust cost! The amount of Stardust required for the trade depends on two factors: the distance between trainers and the rarity of the Pokemon being traded.
Legendary and Mythical Pokemon are not tradeable, but Shiny Pokemon can be traded at a significantly higher Stardust cost. Review the cost and confirm the trade if you agree.
Evolve After the Trade: Once you receive the Pokemon through the trade, the magic happens! You can now evolve it using the usual candy evolution method.
The trade essentially unlocks the hidden evolution potential within the Pokemon.
Strategic Considerations for the Savvy Trainer
Trading for evolution presents a unique strategic layer in Pokemon Go. Here are some key points to consider:
Stardust Management: Stardust is a vital resource in Pokemon Go. Be mindful of the Stardust cost associated with trades, especially for high-rarity Pokemon. Prioritize trades that benefit both you and your partner.
The Lucky Trade Bonus: There’s a chance of getting a Lucky Trade, which significantly reduces the Stardust cost for future trades between those two trainers. This makes it more economical to evolve Pokemon with a friend you frequently play with.
The IV Gamble (Individual Values): IVs determine a Pokemon’s potential strength. If you’re trading for a Pokemon meant for battling, consider using appraisal tools to check its IVs before finalizing the trade. This helps ensure you get a Pokemon with the potential to become a strong battler.
The Benefits of Trade Evolution
While it adds an extra step, trade evolution offers some distinct advantages:
Friendship Building: Trading fosters interaction with other trainers, building friendships and strengthening your local Pokemon Go community. The act of collaboration and helping each other out adds a social dimension to the game.
Evolution Guarantee: Trading guarantees the evolution possibility once you acquire the Pokemon. You won’t waste candy hoping for a random evolution like some Pokemon with branched evolutionary paths.
Lucky Trade Efficiency: Lucky Trades offer a significant reduction in future
FAQs
What are tradable evolutions in Pokemon Go?
Unlike the mainline Pokemon games where some Pokemon evolve solely through trading, Pokemon Go doesn’t have a direct “trade evolution” mechanic. However, there are certain Pokemon that require being traded with another player before they can evolve using the standard candy evolution method.
Which Pokemon require trading to evolve in Pokemon Go?
The following Pokemon require trading to trigger their evolution:
Machoke -> Machamp
Graveler -> Golem
Kadabra -> Alakazam
Haunter -> Gengar
Boldore -> Gigalith
Pumpkaboo (certain forms) -> Gourgeist (certain forms)
Phantump -> Trevenant
How does trading for evolution work?
Find a trading partner: You’ll need a friend or another trainer who has the Pokemon you need to evolve (and vice versa, ideally).
Initiate the trade: Both trainers need to be physically close (within Bluetooth or close proximity depending on OS). Open the “Trainer” menu, select “Trade,” and choose the Pokemon you want to trade.
Confirm the trade: You’ll see the Stardust cost associated with the trade, which varies depending on the distance between trainers and the Pokemon’s rarity. Confirm the trade if you agree to the cost.
Evolve after trade: Once you receive the Pokemon through the trade, you can then evolve it using the usual candy evolution method. The trade itself unlocks the evolution possibility.
What are some things to consider when trading for evolution?
Stardust Cost: Stardust is a valuable resource, so be mindful of the cost before initiating a trade, especially for high-rarity Pokemon.
Lucky Trades: There’s a chance of getting a Lucky Trade, which significantly reduces the Stardust cost for future trades between those two trainers. This makes it more economical to trade for evolutions with a friend you frequently play with.
IVs (Individual Values): IVs determine a Pokemon’s potential strength. If you’re trading for a Pokemon meant for battling (like Machamp or Alakazam), consider its IVs before finalizing the trade. You can use appraisal tools to check IVs before trading.
Shiny Pokemon: Shiny Pokemon can be traded, but the Stardust cost is significantly higher. Only trade Shiny Pokemon for evolution if you have a trustworthy friend and truly want that specific Pokemon.
Are there any benefits to trading for evolution?
Friendship Building: Trading encourages interaction with other trainers, fostering friendships and building your local Pokemon Go community.
Evolution Guarantee: Trading guarantees the evolution possibility once you acquire the Pokemon. You won’t need to spend extra candy hoping for a random evolution (like some Pokemon with branched evolutions).
Lucky Trade Bonus: Lucky Trades offer a significant reduction in future trade costs, making it easier to evolve more Pokemon with the same friend.
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