How do I evolve Inkay? Evolving Inkay isn’t a straightforward process, meaning many trainers miss out on adding Malamar to their team. Well, we’re here to tell you how to evolve Inkay in Pokémon Go and the main series of Pokémon games so you can get your hands on one of the best dark-types in the entire franchise.
It’s all well and good getting a Malamar, but you need to know how to make the most out of the dark Pokémon. Our dark Pokémon weakness guide can help you do that. For more catch-em-all companion guides, be sure to browse through our picks of the best dog Pokémon, cat Pokémon, bear Pokémon, and bird Pokémon from across the franchise.
Let’s dive into our how to evolve Inkay guide.
Understanding the Evolution of Inkay in Pokémon Go
In Pokémon Go, the evolution of Inkay into Malamar requires 50 Inkay candies. This is an essential aspect to grasp, as it determines your ability to evolve this Pokémon. Catching more Inkay is the most obvious way to gather candy, but you can also take your Inkay for a walk or play with it to boost your candy collection.
Once you have collected 50 candies, follow these steps to evolve Inkay into Malamar:
- Select Inkay in your Pokémon Go roster.
- Turn your phone upside down.
- Ensure the red evolution button turns green.
- Hit the green button to initiate the evolution.
- Now, take your newly evolved Malamar into battle!
How to Evolve Inkay in Pokémon Sword and Shield
Pokémon Sword and Shield is the latest main series Pokémon title that features Inkay. To evolve this Generation 6 Pokémon, you need to reach level 30. After leveling up, follow these steps:
- Level up while at level 30 or higher.
- Turn your Nintendo Switch upside down before the evolution dialogue ends (this is easier in handheld mode).
- Do not press B during the evolution process.
- Enjoy exploring the Galar region with your new Malamar!
All previous games featuring Malamar and Inkay have similar evolution steps, so you can apply this knowledge across different Pokémon games.
Locating Inkay in Pokémon Sword and Shield
You can catch Inkay in Pokémon Sword and Shield at the following locations:
- Route 7
- Route 9
- Bridge Field
- Dusty Bowl
- Giant’s Mirror
- Hammerlocke Hills
- Watchtower Ruins
- West Lake Axewell
- Motostoke Riverbank
- Stony Wilderness
For catching Inkay easily, refer to our guides on dark and psychic Pokémon weaknesses. Usually, a Pokéball works well, but for better chances, using a Great Ball is advisable.
Now you’re all set to evolve Inkay! With your new Malamar, you’re ready to take on battles. And if you’re looking for more evolutions, we’re here to help you learn how to evolve Charcadet, Pawmo, Primeape, Finizen, and more!