Trading Guide For Trade Evolutions In Pokemon

Jul 21, 2025 by Sam Evans 46 views

Trading for Trade Evolutions in Pokémon: A Comprehensive Guide

Hey there, fellow Pokémon trainers! Ever wanted a Golem, an Alakazam, or a Scizor but found yourself stuck because they evolve through trading? You're not alone! Trade evolutions are a unique and sometimes frustrating mechanic in the Pokémon world, but fear not, this comprehensive guide is here to help you navigate the ins and outs of trading for those awesome evolved forms. This guide will cover everything you need to know about trade evolutions, including what they are, how they work, which Pokémon evolve this way, and, most importantly, how to get them in your party. So, let's dive into the exciting world of Pokémon trading and evolution!

What are Trade Evolutions in Pokémon?

So, what exactly are trade evolutions? Well, in the Pokémon universe, some Pokémon don't evolve through the typical methods of leveling up or using evolution stones. Instead, these special Pokémon evolve when they are traded to another player. This mechanic has been around since the very first Pokémon games, Pokémon Red and Blue, and has remained a staple in the series ever since. The idea behind trade evolutions adds a social element to the game, encouraging players to connect and interact with each other to complete their Pokédex. Back in the day, this meant linking up Game Boys with a link cable – a truly nostalgic experience for many veteran trainers! But times have changed, and while the core concept remains, the methods of trading have evolved (pun intended!) to keep up with modern technology.

The History and Significance of Trade Evolutions:

Let's rewind a bit and explore why trade evolutions were introduced in the first place. In the early days of Pokémon, the developers wanted to create a sense of community and cooperation among players. Trading Pokémon was a key feature, and trade evolutions were a clever way to incentivize players to trade with each other. This added a layer of complexity and excitement to the game, as trainers couldn't simply catch and train every Pokémon on their own. They needed to interact with others to truly "catch 'em all!"

The Mechanics of Trading:

To understand trade evolutions, you first need to grasp the basics of trading in Pokémon. In most Pokémon games, trading involves connecting with another player, either locally or online, and exchanging Pokémon from your party or PC boxes. The exact method can vary slightly depending on the game you're playing, but the general process remains the same. You select the Pokémon you want to trade, the other player selects theirs, and then you confirm the trade. Once the trade is complete, the Pokémon is transferred to the other player's game.

The Evolution Trigger:

Now, here's where the magic happens for trade evolutions. When a specific Pokémon is traded, the act of being traded itself triggers the evolution. Once the trade is complete, the Pokémon will immediately evolve into its next form (assuming all other conditions are met, which we'll discuss later). This means that if you trade a Haunter, for example, it will evolve into a Gengar as soon as it arrives in the other player's game. It's a thrilling moment to witness, both for the player receiving the evolved Pokémon and for the player who initiated the trade. Trade evolutions add an exciting layer to the gameplay, and to truly experience the full potential of your Pokémon, you'll often find yourself needing to engage in these trades.

Why Trade Evolutions are Important:

Trade evolutions hold a special place in the hearts of many Pokémon fans. They encourage interaction, create memorable moments, and add a unique dimension to the game. For some, trading is a core part of the Pokémon experience, and the thrill of seeing a Pokémon evolve after a trade is unmatched. Trade evolutions also play a crucial role in completing the Pokédex. Without trading, it would be impossible to obtain certain Pokémon, making it a necessary step for any aspiring Pokémon master. The rarity and the social aspect combined make the process of obtaining trade evolutions that much more rewarding. So, whether you're a seasoned trainer or just starting your Pokémon journey, understanding trade evolutions is essential for truly experiencing everything the Pokémon world has to offer.

Which Pokémon Evolve Through Trading?

Alright, now that we've covered the basics, let's get to the exciting part: which Pokémon actually evolve through trading? There's a whole bunch of them spread across different generations, and some even require specific items to be held during the trade. So, buckle up, because we're about to dive into the list of trade evolution Pokémon!

Classic Trade Evolutions (Gen 1):

Let's start with the classics – the original trade evolution Pokémon from Generation 1, Pokémon Red and Blue. These are the Pokémon that started it all and hold a special place in many trainers' hearts:

Kadabra to Alakazam: The psychic powerhouse Alakazam is one of the most iconic trade evolutions. Kadabra evolves into Alakazam simply by being traded. The mental prowess and sleek design of Alakazam have made it a fan favorite for decades.
Machoke to Machamp: This Fighting-type behemoth, Machamp, is another classic trade evolution. Machoke evolves into Machamp upon being traded, gaining an extra pair of arms and immense strength. Machamp’s imposing presence and battling prowess make it a valuable addition to any team.
Haunter to Gengar: The spooky Ghost/Poison-type Gengar is a fan favorite, and its evolution method is a bit spooky too! Haunter evolves into Gengar when traded, becoming one of the most popular Ghost-types in the game. Gengar’s mischievous grin and powerful special attacks make it a formidable opponent.
Graveler to Golem: Last but not least, Graveler evolves into the rock-solid Golem upon being traded. Golem is a sturdy Ground/Rock-type Pokémon known for its defense and powerful physical attacks. Its design, resembling a massive boulder with limbs, is instantly recognizable.

These Gen 1 trade evolutions are iconic and have been staples in the Pokémon series since the beginning. Many trainers have fond memories of trading these Pokémon with friends to complete their Pokédex.

Trade Evolutions with Held Items:

As the Pokémon series evolved, Game Freak added a new twist to trade evolutions: held items. Some Pokémon now require a specific item to be held during the trade in order to evolve. This adds an extra layer of complexity and strategy to the process. Here are some notable trade evolution Pokémon that require held items:

Onix to Steelix (with Metal Coat): The Rock/Ground-type Onix evolves into the Steel-type Steelix when traded while holding a Metal Coat. Steelix is a massive, serpentine Pokémon known for its incredible defense. The addition of the Steel typing gives it even more resilience in battle.
Scyther to Scizor (with Metal Coat): Scyther, the Bug/Flying-type Pokémon, evolves into the Bug/Steel-type Scizor when traded while holding a Metal Coat. Scizor is a formidable Pokémon with powerful physical attacks and a unique design. The Metal Coat not only triggers the evolution but also changes Scyther’s typing, making Scizor a strategic choice for many trainers.
Porygon to Porygon2 (with Up-Grade): The virtual Pokémon Porygon evolves into Porygon2 when traded while holding an Up-Grade. Porygon2 is a more refined and stable version of Porygon, with improved stats and abilities. This evolution method highlights the technological aspect of the Pokémon world.
Porygon2 to Porygon-Z (with Dubious Disc): Continuing the Porygon evolution line, Porygon2 evolves into Porygon-Z when traded while holding a Dubious Disc. Porygon-Z is an unstable and unpredictable Pokémon, but it's also incredibly powerful. This evolution adds a quirky and somewhat glitchy element to the Pokémon roster.
Clamperl to Huntail (with Deep Sea Tooth): The Water-type Clamperl evolves into Huntail when traded while holding a Deep Sea Tooth. Huntail is a deep-sea Pokémon with a menacing appearance and strong special attacks. Its evolution method reflects its mysterious and elusive nature.
Clamperl to Gorebyss (with Deep Sea Scale): Clamperl can also evolve into Gorebyss, another deep-sea Pokémon, when traded while holding a Deep Sea Scale. Gorebyss is a graceful and elegant Pokémon known for its beauty and special attacks. The two different evolution outcomes for Clamperl add a bit of choice and variety to the game.
Rhydon to Rhyperior (with Protector): The Rock/Ground-type Rhydon evolves into the massive Rhyperior when traded while holding a Protector. Rhyperior is an incredibly powerful Pokémon with high HP and Attack stats. This evolution gives Rhydon a significant boost, making Rhyperior a formidable addition to any team.
Electabuzz to Electivire (with Electirizer): The Electric-type Electabuzz evolves into Electivire when traded while holding an Electirizer. Electivire is a powerful Electric-type with impressive speed and special attack. Its design is dynamic and energetic, reflecting its Electric typing.
Magmar to Magmortar (with Magmarizer): The Fire-type Magmar evolves into Magmortar when traded while holding a Magmarizer. Magmortar is a fiery Pokémon with strong special attacks and a unique design featuring cannon-like arms. This evolution gives Magmar a significant power boost.
Feebas to Milotic (with Prism Scale): The often-elusive Feebas evolves into the beautiful Milotic when traded while holding a Prism Scale. Milotic is a Water-type Pokémon known for its stunning appearance and high special defense. This evolution is a testament to the idea that even the most unassuming Pokémon can evolve into something extraordinary.
Dusclops to Dusknoir (with Reaper Cloth): The Ghost-type Dusclops evolves into Dusknoir when traded while holding a Reaper Cloth. Dusknoir is a spooky and mysterious Pokémon with high defensive stats. Its design, featuring a single eye and a ghostly shroud, adds to its eerie presence.
Boldore to Gigalith: This Rock-type Pokémon evolves into Gigalith when traded, showcasing a powerful transformation into a towering geological force.
Gurdurr to Conkeldurr: Gurdurr evolves into Conkeldurr when traded. Conkeldurr is a Fighting-type Pokémon known for its incredible strength and using concrete pillars as weapons.
Karrablast to Escavalier (when traded with Shelmet): Karrablast evolves into Escavalier when traded specifically with a Shelmet. This unique evolution mechanic results in a Bug/Steel-type Pokémon with a knightly appearance, donning Shelmet's shell as armor.
Shelmet to Accelgor (when traded with Karrablast): Shelmet evolves into Accelgor when traded with a Karrablast. This Bug-type Pokémon is incredibly fast, shedding its shell to achieve greater agility.

These item-based trade evolutions add a fun challenge to the game, requiring trainers to find the necessary items and coordinate trades with others.

Regional Forms and Trade Evolutions:

In recent Pokémon games, regional forms have been introduced, which are variants of existing Pokémon that have adapted to different environments. Some regional forms also have unique trade evolutions:

Galarian Slowpoke to Galarian Slowking (with King's Rock): The Galarian form of Slowpoke evolves into Galarian Slowking when traded while holding a King's Rock. This Poison/Psychic-type Pokémon has a distinctive appearance and a regal air about it.

Key Considerations for Trade Evolutions:

Items are Consumed: When a Pokémon evolves via trade while holding an item, the item is consumed in the process. Make sure you have enough items if you plan to evolve multiple Pokémon.
Communication is Key: Coordinating trades with other players is essential for trade evolutions. Discuss the terms of the trade beforehand to ensure both parties are happy with the outcome.
Trust is Important: Trading Pokémon involves trusting the other player to trade back your Pokémon after it evolves (if that's the agreement). It's always best to trade with someone you know or a reputable member of the Pokémon community.

Knowing which Pokémon evolve through trading is the first step in completing your Pokédex and building a powerful team. Now that you're armed with this knowledge, you can start your quest to obtain these awesome evolved forms!

How to Trade in Pokémon Games

Now that you know which Pokémon evolve through trading, the next step is to actually, well, trade! But how do you do it? The process can vary slightly depending on which Pokémon game you're playing, but the core mechanics remain the same. Let's break down the different methods of trading in Pokémon games, from the classic link cable days to modern online trading.

Local Trading (Link Cable Era):

Ah, the good old days of link cables! For the original Pokémon games on the Game Boy, Red, Blue, and Yellow, trading involved physically connecting two Game Boys using a link cable. This required being in the same room as the other player, which added a fun, social element to the experience. Here's how it worked:

The Setup: Each player needed a Game Boy, a copy of a compatible Pokémon game, and a link cable. The link cable would connect the two Game Boys together, allowing them to communicate.
The Pokémon Centers: In the game, players would visit a Pokémon Center and talk to the non-player character (NPC) at the trading counter. This would initiate the trading process.
The Trade: Both players would enter the trading room, select the Pokémon they wanted to trade, and confirm the trade. Once both players confirmed, the Pokémon would be exchanged, and the trade evolution would occur (if applicable).

Local trading with a link cable was a memorable experience for many players. It required a bit of effort to set up, but the excitement of trading Pokémon in person made it all worthwhile. It fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among players, as they would gather to trade, battle, and share their Pokémon adventures.

Local Wireless Trading (DS and 3DS Era):

As technology advanced, the link cable became a thing of the past, replaced by wireless connectivity. The Nintendo DS and 3DS consoles allowed for local wireless trading, making the process much more convenient. Here's how local wireless trading works:

The Setup: Players needed to be in close proximity to each other, but no physical cables were required. Each player needed a Nintendo DS or 3DS console and a compatible Pokémon game.
The Union Room/Festival Plaza: In the game, players would go to a specific location, such as the Union Room (in games like Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum) or the Festival Plaza (in Sun and Moon), to initiate local wireless communication.
The Trade: Players would connect to each other wirelessly, and then one player would initiate a trade request. Both players would select the Pokémon they wanted to trade and confirm the trade. The Pokémon would then be exchanged, triggering any trade evolutions.

Local wireless trading made it easier than ever to trade Pokémon with friends. The convenience of wireless connectivity allowed for impromptu trading sessions and made it simple to connect with other players at Pokémon events or gatherings.

Online Trading (Modern Era):

The most modern and convenient way to trade Pokémon is through online trading. This method allows you to trade with players from all over the world, making it much easier to find the Pokémon you need and complete your Pokédex. Online trading is available on the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo Switch consoles.

On the Nintendo 3DS (Global Trade System - GTS):

The Global Trade System (GTS) is a feature available in Pokémon games on the Nintendo 3DS, such as X and Y, Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, and Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon. The GTS allows players to offer Pokémon for trade and request specific Pokémon in return. Here's how it works:

Accessing the GTS: Players access the GTS through the Player Search System (PSS) or Festival Plaza in the game.
Depositing Pokémon: Players can deposit a Pokémon they want to trade and specify which Pokémon they want in return. They can also set conditions, such as the level and gender of the requested Pokémon.
Searching for Trades: Players can search the GTS for Pokémon they want to obtain. They can filter their search by Pokémon species, level, gender, and other criteria.
Completing the Trade: If a player finds a trade they like, they can accept it, and the Pokémon will be exchanged. Any trade evolutions will occur automatically during the trade.

The GTS is a fantastic tool for finding specific Pokémon, including those that evolve through trading. It allows you to connect with players worldwide and complete your Pokédex efficiently.

On the Nintendo Switch (Pokémon Home and In-Game Trading):

The Nintendo Switch offers two primary methods for online trading: Pokémon Home and in-game trading features.

Pokémon Home: Pokémon Home is a cloud-based service that allows players to store and trade Pokémon from various games. It's available on the Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. Here's how it works:
1. Transferring Pokémon: Players can transfer Pokémon from compatible games (such as Pokémon Sword and Shield, Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!, and Pokémon GO) to Pokémon Home.
2. Trading Methods: Pokémon Home offers several trading methods:
  - Wonder Box: Players can deposit a Pokémon in the Wonder Box, and it will be traded randomly with another player. This is a fun way to get unexpected Pokémon.
  - GTS: The GTS in Pokémon Home functions similarly to the 3DS version, allowing players to offer Pokémon for trade and request specific Pokémon in return.
  - Room Trade: Players can create a trade room and invite friends to trade with them. This is a great way to coordinate trades with specific people.
  - Friend Trade: Players can trade directly with friends who are registered in Pokémon Home.
3. Trade Evolutions: When a Pokémon that evolves through trading is traded in Pokémon Home, it will evolve automatically.
In-Game Trading: Some Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch, such as Pokémon Sword and Shield and Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, offer in-game trading features. Here's how it works:
1. Link Codes: Players can set up a trade using a Link Code, which is an eight-digit code that allows them to connect with a specific player.
2. Surprise Trade: Similar to the Wonder Box in Pokémon Home, Surprise Trade allows players to trade Pokémon randomly with other players online.
3. Trade Evolutions: When a Pokémon that evolves through trading is traded in-game, it will evolve automatically.

Online trading on the Nintendo Switch is incredibly convenient and offers a variety of methods to connect with other players. Whether you're using Pokémon Home or in-game trading features, you'll be able to trade Pokémon with ease and obtain those elusive trade evolutions.

Tips for Successful Trading:

Communication is Key: If you're trading with a specific player, communicate with them beforehand to discuss the terms of the trade. Make sure you both agree on what you're trading and whether you want the Pokémon traded back after it evolves.
Be Patient: Finding the right trade can sometimes take time. Don't get discouraged if you don't find a trade immediately. Keep searching and be patient.
Be Honest: Be honest about the Pokémon you're offering and the Pokémon you're requesting. Don't try to scam other players or offer Pokémon that aren't what you claim them to be.
Use Online Communities: There are many online communities and forums dedicated to Pokémon trading. These communities can be a great resource for finding trading partners and getting advice on trading.
Consider Time Zones: If you're trading with players from other countries, be mindful of time zones. Schedule your trades at a time that works for both of you.

Trading is a fundamental part of the Pokémon experience, and mastering the art of trading will help you complete your Pokédex and build a powerful team. So, go out there, connect with other trainers, and start trading!

Tips and Tricks for Trade Evolutions

Okay, so you know what trade evolutions are, which Pokémon evolve this way, and how to trade. Now, let's dive into some tips and tricks to make the process even smoother and more efficient. Getting those trade evolution Pokémon can sometimes feel like a quest in itself, but with these strategies, you'll be a master trader in no time!

Finding a Reliable Trading Partner:

One of the biggest challenges in obtaining trade evolutions is finding a trustworthy trading partner. After all, you're entrusting someone with your Pokémon, and you want to make sure you'll get it back (especially if you're planning a tradeback). Here are some tips for finding a reliable trading buddy:

Trade with Friends: The easiest and most reliable way to trade is with friends or family members who play Pokémon. You already have a level of trust established, which makes the process much smoother.
Join Online Communities: There are tons of online communities dedicated to Pokémon trading, such as Reddit's r/PokemonTrades, Serebii.net forums, and various Discord servers. These communities often have reputation systems, where users can vouch for traders, giving you an idea of who's trustworthy.
Use Reputable Platforms: When using online trading platforms like the GTS or Pokémon Home, stick to reputable platforms with built-in security measures. Avoid trading with random users in unofficial channels.
Check Trader Feedback: If you're trading with someone online, check their feedback or reputation in the community. Look for positive reviews and avoid traders with a history of scamming or not trading back.
Communicate Clearly: Before initiating a trade, clearly communicate your intentions and expectations with your trading partner. Discuss whether you want a tradeback or if the trade is permanent. This will help avoid misunderstandings and potential disappointment.

Tradeback Strategies: