Typically in Pokemon games, evolution is a mechanic that for the most part, occurs naturally when a Pokemon reaches a certain level. Unless a Pokemon has the exception of not being able to evolve, or needing to meet bonus critera such as hold items, trade, or time of day, then evolution usually automatically occurs at the end of a battle, once the required level has been met.
However, in Pokemon Legends: Z-A, this is not the case. Because of this, it can be slightly confusing at first working out how to get the evolution to trigger, especially if you know all evolution requirements have been met. If you’re wondering how to evolve your monsters in Pokemon Legends: Z-A, a complete explainer has been included in the guide below.
How to Get Your Pokemon to Evolve in Pokemon Legends: Z-A
In Pokemon Legends: Z-A, level-based evolutions are not triggered automatically, meaning you have to take a few simple steps to initiate the evolution process yourself.
Once your Pokemon has levelled up enough to meet its evolution level, or meets all necessary requirements (such as time of day or friendship), you will notice an evolution indicator on its profile. When this symbol (up arrow) appears on their icon, you can click the Pokemon, and trigger a prompt that lets you know it can evolve. From here, simply confirm the evolution by selecting the Let it Evolve button.
Once you make this final selection, the evolution process will automatically begin. If you choose to back out at this stage, the evolution process will be cancelled. This is a rather useful way to implement the evolution mechanic, as it takes away the need for hold items such as the Everstone – if you do not wish to evolve your monster, simply never go through with the evolution process from their profile.
After entering the evolution screen, your Pokemon will begin to evolve, with a short evolution animation playing. After a few seconds, your Pokemon will have evolved, and you will now have their new form at your disposal for exploration and battle.
Sometimes, certain Pokemon can even discover brand new moves through evolution, and it is necessary for completing the Pokedex. So, while you have the freedom to pick and choose which monsters you evolve and when, it’s important to know how to access the evolution process.
However, there are some situations in which evolution is triggered immediately, such as when using an Evolution Stone. This is because sometimes the stone itself is the only evolution requirement, and the item gets ‘consumed’ upon use, meaning the Pokemon will immediately start the transformation. Remember to be sure of your choice before using any evolution items!
