What Pokemon Can Evolve By Trading Pokemon Go

Imagine the thrill of finally catching that elusive Kadabra, only to realize its true potential lies locked behind a unique evolution method. In the world of Pokémon GO, trading isn't just about filling your Pokédex; it's a key that unlocks the final forms of certain Pokémon, adding a layer of strategy and social interaction to your journey.

Have you ever wondered why some Pokémon require a helping hand from a friend to reach their ultimate evolution? These trade evolutions add a special dimension to Pokémon GO, mirroring the core series games and encouraging players to connect and collaborate. This article dives deep into the world of trade evolutions in Pokémon GO, revealing which Pokémon benefit from this mechanic, how it works, and the nuances that can make or break your evolution plans. Get ready to master the art of trading and unlock the full potential of your Pokémon!

Main Subheading

The concept of trade evolutions has been a staple of the Pokémon franchise since its inception. It was introduced in the very first Pokémon games, Red and Green (later Red and Blue in international releases), as a way to encourage interaction between players. Back in the late 1990s, trading Pokémon required a physical link cable connecting two Game Boys. This necessity fostered a sense of community as players sought out friends or acquaintances to complete their Pokédexes.

In Pokémon GO, trade evolutions retain this core concept of requiring interaction with other players, but with a modern twist. Instead of a link cable, the trading is done through the in-game Friends system. This allows players to trade Pokémon with anyone on their friends list who is within a certain proximity. While the fundamental idea remains the same, the execution has been adapted to fit the mobile, location-based nature of Pokémon GO. This blending of classic gameplay with modern technology keeps the spirit of the original games alive while catering to a new generation of trainers.

Comprehensive Overview

Trade evolution is a specific evolution method in Pokémon GO where certain Pokémon can evolve into their next form after being traded to another player. The mechanic is designed to mirror the main series Pokémon games, where trading specific Pokémon is a requirement for them to evolve. In Pokémon GO, this mechanic was initially implemented to replicate that experience and encourage player interaction. However, Pokémon GO introduced a unique twist: after trading a Pokémon that is eligible for trade evolution, the evolution cost (typically in the form of Candies) is reduced to zero. This means that once you’ve traded a specific Pokémon, evolving it to its final form becomes significantly easier.

The scientific foundation of trade evolutions in the Pokémon world is not explicitly explained within the game lore, leaving room for interpretation and speculation among fans. One prevailing theory is that the energy exchange during the trade process triggers a unique biological reaction within the Pokémon, facilitating its evolution. This theory suggests that certain Pokémon possess a latent evolutionary potential that can only be unlocked through the specific conditions created by a trade. Another theory posits that the change in environment and the bond with a new trainer can also play a role in triggering the evolutionary process. Perhaps the Pokémon senses the increased trust and partnership, leading to a surge of evolutionary energy.

The history of trade evolutions in Pokémon GO dates back to the game's early updates. Initially, the only way to obtain Pokémon like Alakazam, Golem, Gengar, and Machamp was through trading, reflecting their evolution methods in the core games. However, this created a barrier for solo players or those without a network of active friends. To address this issue, Niantic introduced alternative methods for obtaining these Pokémon, such as through Raid Battles, which allowed players to encounter and catch the final evolved forms directly.

Subsequently, the trade evolution mechanic was adjusted to make it more accessible and player-friendly. The introduction of the reduced evolution cost after trading was a significant change, as it maintained the spirit of trade evolutions while making it less restrictive. This adjustment allowed players to still benefit from trading without making it the only viable option for completing their Pokédex.

Currently, there is a specific set of Pokémon that can evolve through trading in Pokémon GO. These Pokémon generally align with those that evolve through trading in the main series games. As of the latest updates, the list includes:

• 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 with Shelmet)
• Shelmet evolves into Accelgor (when traded with Karrablast)

The last two on that list are a unique pair. Karrablast and Shelmet require a very specific trade to evolve; Karrablast must be traded with Shelmet. This is a double trade evolution, that means you have to trade the other player back!

Understanding this list is crucial for players aiming to complete their Pokédex efficiently. It allows them to strategically plan trades with friends and focus on catching the base forms of these Pokémon.

Trends and Latest Developments

The trend in Pokémon GO regarding trade evolutions has been towards making the mechanic more accessible and less restrictive, while still retaining its core purpose of encouraging player interaction. Initially, trade evolutions were the primary method of obtaining certain powerful Pokémon, which incentivized players to engage with the trading system. Over time, Niantic has introduced alternative methods, such as Raid Battles and special research tasks, that allow players to obtain these Pokémon without trading.

One of the latest developments is the continued refinement of the trading system itself. Niantic has made efforts to improve the user interface, making it easier to initiate and complete trades. They have also adjusted the distance restrictions for trading, allowing players to trade with friends who are further away during special events or under specific circumstances, like the COVID-19 pandemic when remote play was emphasized.

Popular opinion among Pokémon GO players is generally positive towards the trade evolution mechanic, especially with the reduced evolution cost after trading. Players appreciate that it adds an element of strategy and cooperation to the game. However, some players have expressed concerns about the limitations of the trading system, such as the need to be in close proximity and the limited number of special trades per day. This can make it challenging for players in rural areas or those with fewer active friends to fully utilize the trade evolution mechanic.

Professional insights from Pokémon GO experts and content creators suggest that trade evolutions are an integral part of the game's ecosystem. They emphasize the importance of building a strong network of friends to maximize the benefits of trading. Experts also advise players to carefully consider the IVs (Individual Values) and stats of the Pokémon they are trading, as these factors can significantly impact the Pokémon's performance in battles. Many content creators have produced guides and tutorials on how to effectively use the trade evolution mechanic, providing tips on finding trading partners and optimizing trade strategies.

Looking ahead, it is likely that Niantic will continue to introduce new Pokémon that evolve through trading, keeping the mechanic relevant and engaging. There is also potential for further refinements to the trading system, such as the introduction of remote trading capabilities or enhanced tools for coordinating trades with friends. These developments could address some of the current limitations and make trade evolutions even more accessible to all players.

Tips and Expert Advice

1. Coordinate with Friends: The most effective way to take advantage of trade evolutions is to coordinate with your friends. Communicate about which Pokémon you both need to evolve and plan your trades accordingly. This ensures that both players benefit from the reduced evolution cost.

For example, if you and a friend both have a Machoke, agree to trade them with each other. After the trade, you can both evolve your newly acquired Machoke into Machamp at no Candy cost. Coordination helps maximize the efficiency of your trades and ensures that neither of you wastes valuable resources.

2. Prioritize High IV Pokémon: When choosing which Pokémon to trade, prioritize those with high IVs. IVs are hidden stats that determine a Pokémon's potential in battles. While the IVs of a Pokémon are randomized upon trading, starting with a Pokémon that already has good IVs increases the chances of it remaining strong after the trade.

Consider using appraisal tools within Pokémon GO to check the IVs of your Pokémon before trading. Focus on trading Pokémon with appraisal ratings that indicate high potential. Even if the IVs change after the trade, starting with a strong foundation increases the likelihood of obtaining a powerful evolved Pokémon.

3. Take Advantage of Trade Evolution Events: Niantic occasionally hosts special events that highlight trade evolutions. These events may offer bonuses such as increased Candy rewards for trading, reduced Stardust costs, or temporary reductions in the distance required for trading.

Keep an eye on the Pokémon GO in-game news and official social media channels to stay informed about these events. Participating in trade evolution events can significantly accelerate your progress in completing your Pokédex and obtaining powerful evolved Pokémon.

4. Understand Trade Limitations: Be aware of the limitations of the trading system in Pokémon GO. Each player is limited to one special trade per day, which is typically reserved for trading Legendary, Shiny, or Pokémon not already in your Pokédex. Regular trades are less restricted, but still require being within a certain proximity of the other player.

Plan your special trades strategically, focusing on Pokémon that will provide the most significant benefit to your team. If you have multiple Pokémon eligible for trade evolution, prioritize those with the best potential for battles or those that will fill important gaps in your Pokédex.

5. Utilize Online Communities: If you lack active friends who play Pokémon GO, consider joining online communities such as local Pokémon GO groups on social media platforms or dedicated Pokémon GO forums. These communities can help you connect with other players in your area who are interested in trading.

Engage in these communities by posting about the Pokémon you are looking to trade and coordinating meetups with other players. Online communities can provide a valuable resource for finding trading partners and expanding your network of Pokémon GO friends.

6. Consider the Pokémon's Moveset: Before evolving a traded Pokémon, consider its moveset. Some Pokémon learn different moves depending on whether they evolve through trading or other methods. A Pokémon with a favorable moveset can be more effective in battles, so it's essential to check this before committing to the evolution.

Use resources like Pokémon GO move rankings and battle simulators to evaluate the potential of different movesets. If a traded Pokémon has a particularly strong moveset, you may want to prioritize evolving it to maximize its battle potential.

7. Be Mindful of Stardust Costs: Trading Pokémon requires Stardust, and the cost varies depending on your friendship level with the other player. Higher friendship levels result in lower Stardust costs.

Work on increasing your friendship level with your Pokémon GO friends by regularly interacting with them through gifting, battling, and trading. Achieving higher friendship levels not only reduces the Stardust cost for trades but also unlocks other benefits, such as increased damage in raids when battling together.

8. Know the Exceptions: Some Pokémon that traditionally evolve through trading in the main series games have alternative evolution methods in Pokémon GO. For example, while trading can reduce the Candy cost for evolving Pokémon like Kadabra and Machoke, they can also be evolved using a certain number of Candies without trading.

Research the evolution methods for each Pokémon to determine the most efficient way to obtain its final form. Sometimes, it may be more cost-effective to evolve a Pokémon using Candies rather than trading, especially if you have a limited number of trading opportunities.

FAQ

Q: What happens to the IVs of a Pokémon after it's traded? A: The IVs of a Pokémon are re-rolled when it is traded. This means that the IVs will be different for the receiving player compared to the original player. However, the CP (Combat Power) of the Pokémon will remain relatively the same.

Q: Can I trade a Pokémon multiple times? A: No, a Pokémon can only be traded once. After it has been traded, it cannot be traded again to another player.

Q: Is there a limit to how many Pokémon I can trade per day? A: Yes, you are limited to 100 regular trades per day. In addition, you can only make one special trade per day, which is reserved for trading Pokémon not already in your Pokédex, Legendary Pokémon, or Shiny Pokémon.

Q: What is the maximum distance I can be from another player to trade with them? A: The standard trading distance is relatively short, typically around 100 meters. However, Niantic occasionally increases this distance during special events or under specific circumstances.

Q: Do I need to be a certain level to trade Pokémon? A: Yes, you need to be at least Trainer Level 10 to trade Pokémon with other players.

Q: Can I trade Mythical Pokémon? A: No, Mythical Pokémon cannot be traded in Pokémon GO. This restriction is in place to maintain the rarity and exclusivity of these Pokémon.

Q: Does the friendship level affect the trade evolution? A: While the friendship level doesn't directly affect the ability to trigger a trade evolution, higher friendship levels reduce the Stardust cost associated with trading. This makes it more economical to trade with close friends.

Q: What happens if I trade a Pokémon that can evolve through multiple methods? A: If you trade a Pokémon that can evolve through trading and other methods (such as using Candies), the reduced evolution cost will apply after the trade. You can then choose to evolve the Pokémon using the reduced cost or opt for the alternative method if preferred.

Conclusion

Mastering trade evolutions in Pokémon GO is a rewarding endeavor that enhances both your gameplay and social experience. By understanding which Pokémon benefit from trading, coordinating with friends, and utilizing available resources, you can efficiently complete your Pokédex and obtain powerful evolved Pokémon. The mechanic not only encourages player interaction but also adds a strategic layer to team building, requiring you to consider IVs, movesets, and trade limitations.

Now that you're equipped with the knowledge and tips to navigate the world of trade evolutions, it's time to put your skills to the test. Connect with your Pokémon GO friends, plan your trades strategically, and unlock the full potential of your Pokémon. Don't forget to stay updated on the latest events and developments, as Niantic continues to refine and expand the trading system. Share your experiences and successes in the comments below, and let's build a stronger, more collaborative Pokémon GO community together!