Evolution stones are unique and powerful items in the world of Pokémon that facilitate the evolution of specific Pokémon, bypassing traditional methods like leveling up or reaching a certain friendship level. They provide a direct and instant path for these Pokémon to transform into their next stage.
Understanding the Mechanism
To evolve a Pokémon using an evolution stone, trainers need to perform a simple action within their game:
- Access your bag: Navigate to your inventory of items.
- Select the stone: Choose the appropriate evolution stone that corresponds to the Pokémon you wish to evolve.
- Give it to your Pokémon: Select the compatible Pokémon from your party or storage.
Once the correct stone is given to the right Pokémon, it will instantly evolve into its new form, regardless of its current level. This makes evolution stones a crucial tool for trainers looking to acquire powerful Pokémon quickly.
What Are Evolution Stones?
Evolution stones are special consumable items that, upon use, trigger a Pokémon's evolution. Unlike experience-based evolutions, which require a Pokémon to reach a specific level, stone evolutions are immediate and bypass any level requirements. This unique property makes them invaluable for certain species.
The Evolution Process Step-by-Step
Using an evolution stone is straightforward:
- Open your in-game bag from the main menu.
- Locate the desired evolution stone within your "Items" or "Evolution Items" section.
- Select the stone and choose the "Use" or "Give" option.
- Pick the compatible Pokémon from your current party or PC storage that you wish to evolve.
- Confirm the action to initiate the evolution sequence, and watch your Pokémon transform.
Common Evolution Stones and Their Effects
There is a variety of evolution stones, each capable of evolving specific Pokémon. Here's a look at some of the most well-known stones and their associated evolutions:
| Stone Name | Common Pokémon Evolved | Description/Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Stone | Eevee (Flareon), Growlithe (Arcanine), Vulpix (Ninetales) | Triggers evolution in Fire-type Pokémon or those with fiery traits. |
| Water Stone | Eevee (Vaporeon), Poliwhirl (Poliwrath), Staryu (Starmie) | Used for Water-type Pokémon. |
| Thunder Stone | Eevee (Jolteon), Pikachu (Raichu), Eelektrik (Eelektross) | Evolves Electric-type Pokémon. |
| Leaf Stone | Gloom (Vileplume), Nuzleaf (Shiftry), Weepinbell (Victreebel) | For Grass-type Pokémon. |
| Moon Stone | Nidorina (Nidoqueen), Clefairy (Clefable), Jigglypuff (Wigglytuff) | Associated with lunar power; often for Fairy- or Normal-types. |
| Sun Stone | Gloom (Bellossom), Sunkern (Sunflora), Cottonee (Whimsicott) | Linked to solar energy; for specific Grass-type or light-associated Pokémon. |
| Dawn Stone | Kirlia (Gallade - male only), Snorunt (Froslass - female only) | Evolves specific male or female Pokémon based on gender. |
| Dusk Stone | Murkrow (Honchkrow), Misdreavus (Mismagius), Lampent (Chandelure) | Used for Ghost- and Dark-type Pokémon. |
| Shiny Stone | Togetic (Togekiss), Roselia (Roserade), Minccino (Cinccino) | Often for elegant or shining Pokémon. |
| Ice Stone | Eevee (Glaceon - in some games), Alolan Vulpix (Alolan Ninetales) | Used for Ice-type Pokémon. |
Note: The specific Pokémon that evolve with certain stones, especially Eevee's evolutions, can vary slightly between game generations or regional forms.
Where to Find Evolution Stones
Evolution stones can be acquired through various methods depending on the Pokémon game you are playing. Common ways to obtain them include:
- Exploration: Finding them as hidden items or sparkling spots in specific routes, caves, or dungeons.
- In-game Shops: Purchasing them from special vendors, department stores, or antique shops.
- Battle Rewards: Receiving them as rewards for defeating certain trainers, wild Pokémon, or completing battle facilities.
- Mini-Games & Features: Earning them through activities like the Poké Pelago in Sun and Moon, mining in the Grand Underground in Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, or as gifts from NPCs.
Key Considerations for Trainers
When using evolution stones, keep the following in mind:
- One-Time Use: Each evolution stone is consumed after a single use, so plan carefully which Pokémon you want to evolve.
- No Level Restrictions: Pokémon evolve instantly, regardless of their level. This can be advantageous for quickly adding powerful Pokémon to your team, especially early in the game.
- Move Sets: Pokémon that evolve via stones may miss out on learning certain moves naturally by leveling up in their unevolved form. It's often strategic to delay evolution until a Pokémon learns a key move, or to rely on TMs and TRs for move acquisition.
- Alternative Methods: Some Pokémon, like Leafeon and Glaceon, have evolved using evolution stones in later generations, but historically also evolved by leveling up near specific in-game locations (Moss Rock/Ice Rock). Always check the specific game mechanics.
Evolution stones offer a vital and straightforward path for many Pokémon to reach their full potential, adding an exciting layer to the evolution mechanic within the Pokémon series.
