The Moon Stone in Pokémon Fire Red is a special evolution stone that, when used on specific Pokémon, instantly triggers their evolution into a more powerful form. Unlike leveling up, these Pokémon can only evolve through the direct application of this mystical item.
What Does the Moon Stone Do?
The primary function of the Moon Stone is to facilitate the evolution of certain Pokémon that do not evolve through experience or trading. When a Moon Stone is used on a compatible Pokémon, it immediately evolves, regardless of its level. This method of evolution is unique and bypasses the traditional leveling process for these specific species.
Pokémon That Evolve with a Moon Stone
In Pokémon Fire Red, the Moon Stone is essential for evolving three distinct Pokémon lines. These evolutions unlock more powerful forms with improved stats and, in some cases, different move pools.
- Nidorina evolves into Nidoqueen
- Nidorino evolves into Nidoking
- Clefairy evolves into Clefable
Here's a quick summary of the Pokémon that benefit from the Moon Stone:
| Pokémon to Evolve | Evolved Form | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nidorina | Nidoqueen | Poison/Ground | Female Nidoran line. |
| Nidorino | Nidoking | Poison/Ground | Male Nidoran line. |
| Clefairy | Clefable | Normal | Fairy-like Pokémon. |
How to Use a Moon Stone
Using a Moon Stone is straightforward:
- Open your Bag from the menu.
- Navigate to the "Items" section and locate the Moon Stone.
- Select the Moon Stone and then choose the compatible Pokémon you wish to evolve from your party or PC storage.
- Confirm your choice, and the Pokémon will immediately evolve.
Where to Find Moon Stones in Fire Red
Moon Stones are not found frequently, making them valuable items. Here are some common locations where you can obtain them in Pokémon Fire Red:
- Mt. Moon: This is one of the earliest and most iconic places to find a Moon Stone. It can often be found as a hidden item or obtained from a Team Rocket Grunt.
- Celadon Department Store: Sometimes, Moon Stones can be purchased on certain floors of the Celadon Department Store, though their availability might vary or require specific conditions.
- Pokémon Mansion: On Cinnabar Island, the Pokémon Mansion is another location where you might discover a Moon Stone as a hidden item or on the ground.
- Rocket Hideout (Game Corner): A Moon Stone can be found as a hidden item in the Team Rocket Hideout beneath the Celadon City Game Corner.
Strategic Considerations for Using Moon Stones
While instant evolution is tempting, there are strategic considerations when deciding when to use a Moon Stone:
- Move Learning: Pokémon that evolve via stones typically stop learning new moves by leveling up after evolution. It's often advisable to wait until your Pokémon has learned all the desired moves from its pre-evolved form before using the Moon Stone. For example, Nidorina learns Body Slam at level 23, and Nidorino learns Horn Drill at level 48.
- Stat Boosts: Evolution provides a significant boost to a Pokémon's stats, making them more powerful for battles. Weigh the immediate power boost against future move learning.
- Availability: Given their limited availability in Fire Red, plan which Pokémon you want to evolve carefully.
The Moon Stone is a crucial item for trainers looking to complete their Pokédex and utilize the full potential of specific Pokémon in the Kanto region.
