So, you've got yourself a Riolu in Pokémon Black 2, and you're ready to evolve it into the powerful Lucario. But you're not sure how? Don't worry, this guide will walk you through the exact steps, providing actionable advice and answering common questions found on Reddit and other forums.
Understanding Riolu's Evolution Requirements
Unlike some Pokémon that evolve through level-ups or items, Riolu's evolution is a bit more specific. It requires a boost in friendship, also known as happiness. This isn't something you can easily quantify with a number; it's about building a strong bond with your Riolu.
Actionable Steps to Maximize Friendship
Here's a breakdown of the most effective methods to increase your Riolu's friendship:
1. Consistent Leveling:
- Strategic Battles: Don't over-level your Riolu. Winning battles consistently, but avoiding overwhelming opponents, is key. Small, incremental level increases contribute to friendship growth.
- Avoid Critical Hits: While a critical hit might seem beneficial, it can negatively impact friendship growth. Aim for controlled battles to maximize friendship gains.
2. Keeping Riolu in Your Party:
- Constant Companionship: Keep Riolu in your active party as much as possible. The more time it spends with you, the stronger your bond will become.
3. Utilizing Specific Items:
- Soothe Bell: This invaluable item significantly accelerates friendship growth. Equip it to your Riolu for a noticeable boost. You can often find it in various locations throughout the game, or potentially trade for it. Look for it in shops and from other trainers.
- Friendship-Boosting Berries: Certain berries, like the Pomeg Berry, can also help increase friendship. However, the Soothe Bell is generally more efficient.
4. Minimizing Negative Impacts:
- Avoid Fainting: Allowing your Riolu to faint repeatedly will drastically hinder friendship growth. This is a critical point often overlooked by players.
- Careful with Vitamins: While vitamins might seem like a quick way to boost stats, overuse can have a negative effect on friendship. Use sparingly.
5. Leveling Up at Night:
Some players report increased friendship gains when leveling up their Pokémon at night in-game. While not scientifically proven, it's a common tip found in online communities.
Knowing When Riolu is Ready to Evolve
There's no exact meter for friendship. However, you'll know Riolu is ready to evolve when it levels up. The evolution animation will trigger, transforming Riolu into a powerful Lucario.
Troubleshooting: My Riolu Isn't Evolving!
If you've followed these steps and your Riolu still isn't evolving, it's likely you haven't reached the required friendship level. Keep working on those friendship-building techniques. Consistency is key!
Conclusion: Unlocking Lucario's Potential
Evolving your Riolu into Lucario is a rewarding experience in Pokémon Black 2. By following these actionable steps, you'll be well on your way to adding this powerful Pokémon to your team. Remember, patience and consistent effort are essential to maximizing your Riolu's friendship and ensuring a successful evolution. Happy training!
