Pokémon Legends: Z-A introduces numerous unique evolution methods that go far beyond simple leveling up. From Primeape's rage-fueled transformation to Farfetch'd's critical hit challenge, this guide covers every special evolution requirement you need to know.
Whether you're tracking move usage, building friendship, or collecting rare items, understanding these evolution mechanics is essential for completing your Pokédex. Let's dive into each category of special evolution methods available in the Lumiose City region.
Battle-Based Evolution Requirements
Some Pokémon require you to complete specific battle challenges before they can evolve. These evolutions test your strategic skills and patience.
Primeape → Annihilape
Use the move Rage Fist 20 times in battle, then level up. The move counter persists across multiple battles, so you don't need to use it 20 times in a single fight.
Pro Tip: Rage Fist's power increases each time Primeape is hit, making it both a tracking tool and a powerful offensive move as you work toward evolution.
Galarian Farfetch'd → Sirfetch'd
Land 3 critical hits in a single battle. The critical hits must occur within one continuous battle encounter.
Pro Tip: Equip the Leek item (purchasable at the item shop) to dramatically increase Farfetch'd's critical hit ratio. Use moves like Leaf Blade which have high crit rates.
Qwilfish → Overqwil
Use the move Barb Barrage 20 times in battle, then level up. Like Rage Fist, this counter accumulates across multiple battles.
Clobbopus → Grapploct
Level up after learning the move Taunt. Once Clobbopus knows Taunt, simply gain one level to trigger evolution.
Friendship-Based Evolutions
Building strong bonds with your Pokémon unlocks powerful evolutions. Friendship level 158 or higher is required for most friendship evolutions in Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
Standard Friendship Evolutions (158+)
- •Alolan Meowth → Alolan Persian: Reach friendship 158 or higher, then level up
- •Golbat → Crobat: Reach friendship 158 or higher, then level up
- •Igglybuff → Jigglypuff: Reach friendship 158 or higher, then level up
Friendship + Time of Day
- •Chingling → Chimecho: Reach friendship 158 or higher and level up during nighttime (8:00 PM - 3:59 AM in-game)
How to Build Friendship Quickly
- Keep the Pokémon in your active party during battles and exploration
- Use the Pokémon in battles without letting it faint
- Feed your Pokémon berries and other favorite foods
- Avoid letting the Pokémon faint, as this reduces friendship
Evolution Stone Requirements
Several Pokémon in Legends: Z-A require specific evolution stones. These stones can be purchased at the Stone Shop in Lumiose City.
Fire Stone Evolutions
Capsakid → Scovillain: Use Fire Stone (purchasable at Stone Shop)
Moon Stone Evolutions
- Munna → Musharna: Use Moon Stone (purchasable at Stone Shop)
- Jigglypuff → Wigglytuff: Use Moon Stone (purchasable at Stone Shop)
Ice Stone Evolutions
Crabrawler → Crabominable: Use Ice Stone (purchasable at Stone Shop)
Where to Buy Evolution Stones
All evolution stones (Fire Stone, Moon Stone, Ice Stone) can be purchased at the Stone Shop located in central Lumiose City. Prices vary depending on the stone's rarity.
Link Cable Evolution Mechanics
Pokémon Legends: Z-A replaces traditional trading with the Link Cable item, allowing solo players to access trade evolutions. Some Pokémon require specific held items in addition to the Link Cable.
Porygon Evolution Chain
- Porygon → Porygon2: Use Link Cable while Porygon holds the Up-Grade item
- Porygon2 → Porygon-Z: Use Link Cable while Porygon2 holds the Dubious Disc item
Feebas → Milotic
Use Link Cable while Feebas holds the Prism Scale item. This replaces the traditional beauty-based evolution method from previous games.
How to Get Prism Scale: Complete the side quest available at the marked location shown in the guide. The quest becomes available after progressing through the main story.
Unique Special Condition Evolutions
These Pokémon have evolution requirements that don't fit standard categories, often involving collection challenges or specific move knowledge.
Gimmighoul → Gholdengo
Collect 999 Gimmighoul Coins in your bag inventory. Coins are obtained by catching Gimmighoul in the wild and through special chest encounters. Once you have 999 coins, level up Gimmighoul to trigger evolution.
Greavard → Houndstone
Level up Greavard to level 30 or higher during nighttime (8:00 PM - 3:59 AM in-game). Both the level requirement and time condition must be met simultaneously.
Charcadet Split Evolution
Charcadet can evolve into two different forms depending on which armor item you use:
- •Charcadet → Armarouge: Use Auspicious Armor item
- •Charcadet → Ceruledge: Use Malicious Armor item
How to Get Armor Items: Both Auspicious Armor and Malicious Armor are obtained through side quests at the marked location. You can only choose one armor per game, so choose wisely based on your team composition.
Mime Jr. → Mr. Mime
Level up Mime Jr. after it learns the move Mimic. Mimic is learned naturally through leveling, typically around level 15-18.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I evolve Primeape into Annihilape?
Use the move Rage Fist 20 times across any number of battles, then level up Primeape. The move counter is cumulative and persists across all battles, so you don't need to use it 20 times in a single fight.
What's the easiest way to get critical hits with Farfetch'd?
Purchase and equip the Leek item from the shop to boost Farfetch'd's critical hit ratio. Use moves with high crit rates like Leaf Blade, and battle wild Pokémon with lower defensive stats to maximize your chances.
Can I get both Armarouge and Ceruledge in one playthrough?
No, you can only obtain one armor item per playthrough (either Auspicious Armor for Armarouge or Malicious Armor for Ceruledge). You'll need to trade with other players or start a second save file to get both evolutions.
How do I check my Pokémon's friendship level?
Speak to the Friendship Checker NPC in Lumiose City. They'll give you a general indication of your Pokémon's friendship level. For friendship evolutions, you need friendship level 158 or higher.
Master Every Evolution
Understanding special evolution methods is key to building a complete Pokédex in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Each unique requirement adds depth to the training experience and rewards dedicated trainers.
Remember that evolution tracking persists across battles, so there's no pressure to complete challenges in a single encounter. Take your time, plan your strategy, and enjoy discovering these powerful transformations.
For more information on specific Pokémon stats, abilities, and movesets, explore our complete Pokédex database.