Evolving Riolu into Lucario in Pokémon Sword is a sought-after goal for many trainers. This powerful fighting and steel-type Pokémon is a valuable asset to any team. But the evolution process isn't as straightforward as simply leveling up. This guide provides concise steps to successfully evolve your Riolu.
Understanding Riolu's Evolution Requirement
Unlike many Pokémon that evolve based solely on level, Riolu requires a specific condition to transform into Lucario: high friendship. This means you need to build a strong bond with your Riolu before it will evolve.
Key Friendship Indicators
While the game doesn't give a precise friendship meter, you can look for these indicators to gauge your Riolu's happiness:
- Heart Animations: Pay close attention to the hearts that appear above Riolu's head during interactions. More frequent hearts suggest higher friendship.
- Trainer Dialogue: NPCs may comment on your Pokémon's happiness level in certain situations, such as at the Pokémon daycare.
Steps to Maximize Riolu's Friendship:
1. Consistent Battles: Using Riolu in battles is crucial. Winning battles will boost its happiness significantly. Ensure it's actively participating, not just sitting on the bench.
2. Strategic Use of Items: Certain items are designed to increase friendship. Soothe Bell is highly recommended. Equip it to your Riolu at all times, and ensure the bell remains equipped even outside of battle.
3. Vitamins: While not as effective as battling and using the Soothe Bell, vitamins can give a small friendship boost.
4. Grooming & Affection: Regularly use the grooming options in the Pokémon menu. Spend time talking to Riolu and showing affection.
5. Leveling Up: Even though friendship is the primary factor, leveling up is still important. Leveling up contributes to your bond and can improve its friendship, ensuring you are progressing the friendship efficiently. Ensure Riolu is participating actively in battles to earn XP, and it should level up organically while boosting friendship.
6. Avoiding Serious Damage: Don't let Riolu faint frequently, as this decreases friendship. If it's weak, heal it before sending it back into battle.
7. Keep Riolu in Your Party: The more time Riolu spends in your active party, the better chance you have of improving its friendship.
The Final Evolution:
Once you've diligently followed these steps and believe your Riolu's friendship is high enough (you may observe more frequent heart animations), simply level it up. Upon reaching Level 30, your Riolu will evolve into a Lucario. Congratulations!
Beyond Evolution: Training Your Lucario
Remember that evolving is just the beginning. Invest in training your Lucario to maximize its potential. Proper EV training and moveset selection are crucial to creating a truly powerful combatant.
This guide should equip you with the knowledge to successfully evolve your Riolu. Remember patience and consistency are key to strengthening your bond and obtaining the powerful Lucario. Good luck, trainer!
