Trading Pokémon has been a cornerstone of the franchise since its inception. Beyond the social aspect and the thrill of acquiring new creatures, trading unlocks a unique evolutionary path for certain Pokémon: evolution by trade. This guide delves into the mechanics, the Pokémon involved, and answers some frequently asked questions surrounding this fascinating aspect of the Pokémon world.
What is an Evolved by Trade Pokémon?
Many Pokémon require a specific action beyond reaching a certain level to evolve. For some, that action is trading. These Pokémon, known as "evolved by trade Pokémon," will only undergo their transformation when traded to another player or, in some games, to a specific in-game character. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy and social interaction to the game, encouraging collaboration and exchange among players. It's also a fun way to discover new Pokémon in your party.
Which Pokémon Evolve Through Trading?
The list of Pokémon that evolve through trading is extensive and varies slightly between different Pokémon games. However, some notable examples include:
- Machoke to Machamp: Machoke, the powerful Fighting-type Pokémon, evolves into Machamp only when traded.
- Graveler to Golem: This Rock-type Pokémon needs a trade to complete its evolutionary journey.
- Kadabra to Alakazam: The Psychic-type Kadabra is another prime example of a trade-evolved Pokémon.
- Poliwhirl to Politoed: Trading a Poliwhirl while holding a King's Rock will result in the evolution into Politoed. This introduces an item-based condition to the trade evolution.
This isn't an exhaustive list, as numerous other Pokémon across generations require trading to evolve. Consult a Pokédex or online resources specific to your game version for a complete roster.
What Happens During a Trade Evolution?
The evolution process is instantaneous. The moment the trade is completed, the Pokémon on the receiving end will evolve, assuming it meets all necessary conditions. For example, some trade evolutions also require a specific held item. The level of the traded Pokémon remains unaffected during the evolution.
Do Trade Evolutions Work in All Games?
Trade evolutions are generally consistent across most Pokémon games. However, certain game mechanics might influence the outcome. It's always best to confirm the specific requirements for your version of the game.
Can I Trade with Myself to Evolve a Pokémon?
In most games, trading with oneself isn't possible, meaning you'll need another player to initiate the trade evolution process. However, some games, through clever use of features such as Pokémon Bank, provide loopholes to make this possible without a second player being physically involved. This will depend greatly on the rules enforced by the individual game version.
Why Do Some Pokémon Evolve Through Trading?
The design decision behind trade evolution likely stems from the developers' intent to incentivize player interaction and trading. It encourages social play and creates a richer experience beyond simply levelling up Pokémon.
Are There Any Specific Items Required for Trade Evolutions?
While many trade evolutions simply require a trade, others demand specific held items. The King's Rock, mentioned earlier in the Poliwhirl example, is one such item. Always check the Pokédex or online resources specific to your game for complete information on any item requirements.
Conclusion
Evolution by trade adds a layer of depth and excitement to the Pokémon world. It fosters community engagement and presents a unique challenge for trainers. This guide hopefully clarified the mechanics and answered your questions surrounding this intriguing aspect of the Pokémon journey. Remember to consult your game's specific Pokédex for detailed information on the Pokémon that evolve through trading!
