So, you've got a Riolu and you're ready to evolve it into the powerful Lucario? Great! But evolving Riolu in Pokémon Black 2 isn't as straightforward as simply leveling it up. This guide will walk you through the core strategies and steps to successfully evolve your Riolu. Let's dive into the essential tactics needed for this evolution!
Understanding Riolu's Evolution Requirements
Unlike many Pokémon that evolve through leveling up, Riolu has a specific requirement: high friendship. This isn't just about battling with Riolu; it's about building a genuine bond. Neglecting this crucial element will result in a frustrated trainer and an unevolved Riolu.
Key Factors Influencing Friendship
Several factors contribute to increasing Riolu's friendship level:
- Battling: Winning battles with Riolu boosts its happiness, but only if it contributes significantly. Don't rely solely on this; other methods are more efficient.
- Using Vitamins: Vitamins like Protein, Calcium, Iron, Zinc, Carbos, and HP Up directly increase Riolu's stats and boost friendship.
- Affection Items: Holding an item like a Soothe Bell will passively increase Riolu's happiness over time.
- Grooming and other actions: Talking to Riolu regularly, ensuring it doesn't faint frequently, and using healing items like Potions will all contribute to its happiness. Avoiding unnecessary battles where Riolu might get hurt will also improve your chances.
- Leveling up: This is useful but not the most efficient. Focus on other methods listed for quicker results.
Maximizing Friendship: Step-by-Step Guide
Here's a practical strategy to ensure your Riolu's happiness reaches the necessary threshold for evolution:
- Equip the Soothe Bell: This is the most crucial step. The Soothe Bell passively increases friendship, making it a must-have for this process.
- Use Vitamins Strategically: Vitamins are a significant friendship booster. Use a few of each type; don't overdo it in one go, though, to avoid potential issues.
- Avoid Fainting: Riolu's friendship decreases when it faints, so be cautious during battles.
- Regular Interaction: Remember to talk to Riolu regularly in your party menu.
- Level Up Gradually: While not the most effective method, leveling up still contributes to friendship, so gradually level your Riolu alongside the other methods.
- Minimize unnecessary battles: Use the first 4 steps consistently. This is more effective than continuous battling.
- Level up at Night: The friendship increase is higher at night.
Recognizing the Evolution: Signs of High Friendship
Before you level your Riolu, check for these signs that your efforts are paying off:
- Heart Symbol: In the summary screen, a heart symbol will appear next to Riolu's name when its friendship is high enough. This is your primary indicator.
- Trainer's Reaction: The happiness indicator may appear when you talk to your Riolu.
Final Steps to Evolution
Once you see the heart symbol, it's time to evolve your Riolu. Simply level it up – even by a single level – and it will transform into the powerful Lucario. Congratulations!
Conclusion: Patience and Consistency Are Key
Evolving Riolu in Pokémon Black 2 requires patience and a consistent approach. Don't rush the process; focus on building a strong bond with your Riolu through various methods mentioned above. Following these steps and utilizing the various friendship-boosting techniques will make the evolution a successful and rewarding experience. Good luck, Trainer!
