Top 10 Pokémon to Evolve in Pokémon GO: Best Choices for Trainers
1. Gyarados (Magikarp → Gyarados)
Gyarados is an all-time favorite for many Pokémon GO trainers. Evolving from Magikarp requires 400 candies, which may seem daunting but is worth every candy spent. Gyarados boasts impressive stats, with a max CP of 3,000+, making it a formidable asset in raids and gym battles. Additionally, it can learn moves like Hydro Pump and Aqua Tail, maximizing its potential as a Water-type attacker. Moreover, Mega Gyarados adds even more strength, enhancing both its stats and types.
2. Dragonite (Dratini → Dragonite)
Evolving Dratini into Dragonite requires 125 candies. Known for its high CP, Dragonite is a dragon-flying type, making it one of the best Pokémon for both PvP battles and raids. The max CP of Dragonite exceeds 3,500, cementing its role as one of the strongest attackers in the game. With access to powerful moves like Draco Meteor and Hyper Beam, trainers can unleash devastating damage. Its versatility allows it to excel in various situations, from gym defense to raid offense.
3. Tyranitar (Larvitar → Tyranitar)
Tyranitar evolves from Larvitar using 100 candies. As a rock-dark type Pokémon, it has a dual typing that makes it versatile against many opponents. With a max CP of 3,800+, Tyranitar is a top choice for high-damage output, particularly in gym battles. It benefits from a strong moveset as well, consisting of moves like Crunch and Stone Edge. Also, a Mega Evolution option is available, giving trainers even more reason to invest in this powerful Pokémon.
4. Machamp (Machop → Machamp)
Machamp is an excellent fighting type to consider for evolution, requiring 125 candies to evolve from Machop. With a maximum CP over 2,500, it stands out as one of the premier fighting-type Pokémon available. Machamp’s skills shine in PvP and raids, where it can utilize moves like Dynamic Punch and Cross Chop. Beyond its offensive capabilities, it’s a solid choice for gym defense, making it a well-rounded combatant in various scenarios.
5. Metagross (Beldum → Metagross)
Beldum evolves into Metagross with 200 candies. This steel-psychic type Pokémon boasts a max CP over 3,500 and showcases exceptional defensive and offensive stats. With moves like Meteor Mash and Psychic, Metagross can handle a variety of threats while maintaining its effectiveness in both raids and PvP battles. The addition of a Mega Evolution enhances its capabilities even further, making it a highly sought-after Pokémon for trainers willing to invest the candy.
6. Gallade (Meditite → Gallade)
Evolving Meditite into Gallade requires 100 candies and a Sinnoh Stone. As a fighting-psychic Pokémon, Gallade thrives in battles. With its max CP surpassing 2,500, it offers a high damage potential along with decent bulk. Notable moves such as Leaf Blade and Close Combat ensure Gallade can compete effectively in various formats, including Trainer Battles and raids. This versatility makes it an excellent candidate to evolve for any trainer looking to bolster their lineup.
7. Vaporeon (Eevee → Vaporeon)
In Pokémon GO, Eevee can evolve into Vaporeon, requiring 25 candies. Vaporeon is one of the most powerful water-type Pokémon, with a max CP of over 3,800, making it a great choice for raids and gym defenses. Its bulkiness allows it to take hits while dealing impressive damage with moves like Hydro Pump and Aqua Tail. Vaporeon can also function as a solid counter to fire and ground types, making it a versatile option in your Pokémon arsenal.
8. Snorlax (Munchlax → Snorlax)
Evolving Munchlax into Snorlax requires 50 candies and is well worth the investment. Known for its immense bulk and high max CP (over 3,800), Snorlax serves as an exceptional tank in both gym defense and raid scenarios. It can absorb damage while dishing out hits with moves like Body Slam and Earthquake. Having a Snorlax not only enhances your overall team strength but provides an excellent counter against many attackers.
9. Charizard (Charmander → Charizard)
Evolving Charmander into Charizard uses 125 candies but yields one of the game’s most iconic Pokémon. Charizard has a max CP of around 3,000 and excels as a fire-flying type Pokémon. With powerful moves like Blast Burn and Dragon Claw, Charizard can handle many challenges trainers face in battles and raids. Its Mega Evolutions add even more dynamism, enabling trainers to adapt to different battle formats and strategies.
10. Blissey (Chansey → Blissey)
Evolving Chansey into Blissey will require 50 candies and is a strategic choice for any trainer focused on defense. Blissey possesses outstanding HP, boasting a nearly 3,000 max CP, which makes it the ultimate tank in gyms. Utilizing moves such as Dazzling Gleam and Hyper Beam allows Blissey to withstand and counter many different attackers. This Pokémon is essential for those looking to fortify their gym defense strategies and create an obstacle for opposing trainers.
Final Notes on Evolving Pokémon
When considering which Pokémon to evolve, factors such as max CP, move effectiveness, and versatility in combat are essential elements trainers should assess. Balancing your evolved Pokémon for different types of battles—raids, gym defenses, and trainer battles—ensures a diverse and efficient team. Investing candies wisely in these top choices will yield tremendous benefits, allowing you to excel as a Pokémon GO Trainer while enjoying the thrill of catching and evolving these iconic creatures.
