Politoed is a beloved and iconic Water-type Pokémon that has been a fan favorite since the Johto region. Known for its cheerful demeanor and powerful Drizzle ability in competitive battles, many trainers look to add this green amphibian to their Paldean adventure. If you are playing Pokémon Violet and wondering how to obtain Politoed, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every single step required to successfully add it to your collection.
Table of contents
Understanding the Evolution Line
Before diving into the mechanics, it is important to understand how Politoed is traditionally obtained. Politoed does not spawn in the wild in its fully evolved form within the base Paldea map. Instead, it is the evolved form of Poliwhirl. To trigger this specific evolution, you must complete a trade evolution method that requires a special held item known as the King’s Rock.
Step 1: Finding a Poliwhirl or Poliwag
Your first task is to secure a Poliwhirl. You have a couple of options here:
- Catching Poliwhirl: Poliwhirl can be found swimming in various rivers and lakes, particularly within the Kitakami region if you are playing with the downloadable content expansions.
- Catching and Evolving Poliwag: You can also catch a lower-level Poliwag and level it up to level 25, at which point it will naturally evolve into Poliwhirl.
Step 2: Acquiring the King’s Rock
The King’s Rock is a rare evolutionary item required to transform Poliwhirl into Politoed. In Pokémon Violet (specifically with the Teal Mask DLC content in Kitakami), you can purchase a King’s Rock directly from the Delibird Presents shop located in Mesagoza, Levincia, or Cascarrafa, but it often appears after you have progressed far enough or check the Sundae Bazaar stall in Kitakami. Make sure you check your inventory to ensure you have secured the rock before proceeding.
Step 3: The Trade Evolution Process
Once you have your Poliwhirl and your King’s Rock ready, follow these instructions carefully:
- Open your main menu and select your Bag.
- Navigate to the Held Items pocket and select the King’s Rock.
- Give the King’s Rock to your Poliwhirl to hold.
- Connect to the internet and access the Poké Portal.
- Select Link Trade and enter a trade code with a trusted friend, or use online communities to find someone willing to help you trade back and forth.
- Trade your Poliwhirl holding the King’s Rock to the other player.
- Upon completion of the trade, the game will trigger an animation, and your Poliwhirl will evolve into Politoed!
- Have your trade partner send your newly evolved Politoed right back to you.
Tips for Successful Trading
Because trade evolutions require another human player, it is best to coordinate with someone you know or use dedicated online trading forums. Always ensure you trust the person you are trading with so you do not lose your treasured Pokémon. Enjoy your new Politoed as you explore the vast regions of your game!
