How to Evolve Shelgon in Pokemon Violet: A Step-by-Step Guide
In Pokemon Violet, Shelgon is a powerful Dragon-type Pokemon that evolves into the formidable Salamence, a Dragon/Flying-type pseudo-legendary known for its high stats and devastating moves. Evolving Shelgon requires patience and strategy, but the reward is worth it. This guide will walk you through the process of evolving Shelgon into Salamence, including where to find Shelgon and the best ways to level it up.
Understanding Shelgon’s Evolution
Shelgon is the evolved form of Bagon, which evolves at level 30. To evolve Shelgon into Salamence, you need to level it up to level 50. No special items or conditions are required, making this a straightforward but grind-heavy process. Salamence is a powerhouse with 135 Attack, 95 HP, and access to moves like Dragon Tail and Fire Fang, making it a valuable addition to your team.
Step-by-Step Guide to Evolve Shelgon
Step 1: Obtain Shelgon
Before you can evolve Shelgon, you need to have one in your party. There are two primary ways to get Shelgon in Pokemon Violet:
- Evolve Bagon: Catch a Bagon in Pokemon Violet (it’s a Violet exclusive) and level it up to 30. Bagon can be found in cave and mountain biomes, such as the caves near Alfornada in South Province or East Province (Area Three). For faster spawns, try the Picnic Table Method: set up a picnic, end it immediately, and reset the nearby spawns until a Bagon appears.
- Catch Shelgon in the Wild: Shelgon is rarer but can be found in South Province (Area Six), particularly in caves. It spawns at levels 42-43, so bring Poke Balls or Great Balls to catch it. Eating a sandwich with Dragon-type Encounter Power can increase Shelgon spawns. You can also find Shelgon in 4-star Tera Raid Battles.
Note: If you’re playing Pokemon Scarlet, Bagon and Shelgon are exclusive to Pokemon Violet. You’ll need to trade with a friend or join a Union Circle session with a Violet player to obtain them.
Step 2: Level Shelgon to 50
To evolve Shelgon into Salamence, you must reach level 50 through experience points (XP). Shelgon has a slow growth rate, so expect a grind. Here are the best methods to level up efficiently:
- Battle Strategically: Shelgon is a Dragon-type, so it deals double damage to other Dragon-types like Dratini or Druddigon. Seek out these Pokemon in battles to earn XP quickly. Avoid Ice, Dragon, and Fairy-type Pokemon, as they deal increased damage to Shelgon. Battles against trainers yield more XP than wild Pokemon but are tougher.
- Use Exp. Candies: Exp. Candies are a fast way to level up. Exp. Candy L or XL can boost Shelgon’s level significantly, while Exp. Candy M works but requires more. You can earn candies by completing Tera Raid Battles, especially 4-star or higher. Rare Candies, which instantly increase a Pokemon’s level by one, are also useful but limited. Save them for higher levels (e.g., 45-50).
- Avoid Auto-Battles for Evolution: Using the “Let’s Go” auto-battle feature won’t grant enough XP for evolution, as it doesn’t provide level-appropriate experience. Stick to manual battles or candies.
- Equip Exp. Share: Ensure Shelgon is in your party with Exp. Share active (it’s automatic in Pokemon Violet). This allows Shelgon to gain XP even if it doesn’t participate in battles. Pair it with stronger Pokemon and roam late-game areas like North Province (Area Two) to gain XP faster.
Step 3: Reach Level 50 and Evolve
Once Shelgon hits level 50, it will automatically evolve into Salamence during a battle or when using Exp. Candies. No additional items or conditions are needed. Salamence gains the Intimidate ability (replacing Rock Head or Overcoat) and becomes a Dragon/Flying-type, making it vulnerable to Ice, Rock, Dragon, and Fairy moves but resistant to Fire, Water, Grass, and Fighting.
Tips for Success
- Optimize Shelgon’s Nature: For a stronger Salamence, aim for a Shelgon with an Adamant (+Attack, -Sp. Attack) or Jolly (+Speed, -Sp. Attack) Nature. These enhance Salamence’s offensive or speed capabilities. Check Shelgon’s Nature when catching it in the wild or breeding.
- Use Tera Raids for Quick Gains: Shelgon appears in 4-star Tera Raids, and Salamence can be found in 5- or 6-star raids. Defeating these raids grants Exp. Candies and the chance to catch a high-level Shelgon, reducing the grind.
- Train in High-Level Areas: South Province (Area Six) or Dalizapa Passage are good spots for battling high-level wild Pokemon to gain XP. Use a sandwich with Exp. Point Power to boost gains further.
- Consider Salamence’s Moveset: Once evolved, teach Salamence powerful moves like Dragon Claw, Dragon Pulse, or Fire Blast via TMs, or level it up to learn moves like Dragon Tail. These make it a versatile fighter in battles.
Why Evolve Shelgon?
Salamence is a pseudo-legendary with a base stat total of 600, excelling in Attack (135) and Speed (100). Its Dragon/Flying typing and access to moves like Fire Fang, Stone Edge, and Dragon Tail make it a top-tier choice for competitive battles and challenging Tera Raids. Evolving Shelgon is a grind, but Salamence’s strength makes it worthwhile.
Conclusion
Evolving Shelgon into Salamence in Pokemon Violet is a rewarding journey that requires reaching level 50 through battles, Exp. Candies, or Tera Raids. Whether you start with a Bagon or catch a Shelgon in South Province (Area Six), consistent training will transform it into the mighty Salamence. With no special items needed, focus on strategic battling and XP boosts to speed up the process. Get out there, train hard, and add this pseudo-legendary dragon to your team!