So, you've got a Riolu and you're ready to make it the awesome fighting/steel type powerhouse that is Lucario? Excellent! But evolving Riolu isn't as simple as leveling up. This guide will provide fail-proof methods to ensure your Riolu evolves into Lucario in Pokémon Brilliant Diamond. Let's dive in!
Understanding Riolu's Evolution Requirements
Unlike many Pokémon that evolve simply by reaching a certain level, Riolu has a specific requirement: high friendship. This means you need to build a strong bond with your Riolu before it's ready to evolve. Simply battling with it won't suffice; you need to actively increase its happiness.
Fail-Proof Methods to Maximize Friendship
Here are several proven methods to skyrocket your Riolu's friendship level:
1. Consistent Use in Battles:
While battling alone won't guarantee evolution, it contributes. Using your Riolu regularly in battles, even against weaker opponents, slowly increases its friendship. Remember to heal it frequently; letting it faint repeatedly will decrease friendship.
2. The Soothe Bell:
This is the most efficient method. Equip your Riolu with the Soothe Bell item. This item dramatically accelerates friendship growth during battles and general gameplay. You can find the Soothe Bell relatively early in the game, and obtaining it should be your top priority.
3. Giving Vitamins:
While not as effective as the Soothe Bell, vitamins like Protein, Iron, Calcium, Zinc, and Carbos provide small friendship boosts. These can be purchased from various Pokémon Centers as you progress through the game. Use them sparingly, as they are expensive.
4. Using the Grooming Techniques:
Pamper your Riolu! Occasionally use items like a Shiny Stone, Moon Stone, Sun Stone etc. (Even if not applicable for evolution) to slightly boost its happiness. It may seem like a small gesture, but it contributes over time.
5. Leveling Up:
While not a direct friendship booster, leveling up your Riolu naturally increases friendship. Avoid over-leveling, as it can make the evolution process drag on unnecessarily. Keep a balance between battling and other friendship-building methods.
6. Walking with Riolu:
In Pokémon Brilliant Diamond, walking with your Pokémon in your party will increase friendship; however, this is a relatively slow method compared to using the Soothe Bell and battling.
The Final Step: Evolution
Once your Riolu's friendship is high enough, level it up. It will evolve into Lucario during the level-up sequence. There's no specific level; it all depends on the accumulated friendship level. You'll know you've succeeded when you see the evolution animation!
Troubleshooting: Riolu Isn't Evolving?
If you've followed these methods diligently and your Riolu still isn't evolving, double-check the following:
- Soothe Bell Equipped: Ensure your Riolu is consistently equipped with the Soothe Bell.
- Consistent Use: Are you using your Riolu regularly in battles and avoiding letting it faint?
- Patience: Evolving Riolu takes time. Keep consistently using the above methods.
By following these fail-proof methods, you'll soon have a powerful Lucario by your side, ready to conquer any challenge! Remember to strategically utilize your new Lucario in battles; it’s a powerful addition to any team. Good luck, Trainer!