How To Stop Pokémon Evolution: A Comprehensive Guide

Dec 3, 2025 by Tom Lembong 53 views

Hey Pokémon trainers! Ever been in a situation where you don't want your Pokémon to evolve? Maybe you're attached to its current form, or perhaps you're aiming for a specific strategy. Whatever your reason, stopping evolution in the Pokémon games is totally doable. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Understanding Pokémon Evolution

First off, let's get a grip on what evolution is all about. In the Pokémon world, evolution is how your Pokémon get stronger and change form. Usually, this happens when they level up, but sometimes it requires special items, conditions, or even friendship levels. Knowing the basics helps you plan when and how to intervene if you want to halt the process.

Why Stop Evolution?

So, why would you want to stop evolution in the first place? There are a few cool reasons:

Aesthetic Preference: Sometimes, you just dig the look of a Pokémon's pre-evolution form way more than its evolved form. We all have our favorites, right?
Competitive Battling: In some competitive scenes, certain unevolved Pokémon, like the iconic Pikachu, can be surprisingly powerful with the right setup. They can hold specific items, like the Eviolite, which boosts their Defense and Special Defense, making them tougher than you'd think.
Nostalgia: Maybe that Pokémon was your first, or it has sentimental value. Keeping it in its original form can be a fun way to relive those early-game vibes.

Methods to Prevent Evolution

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. There are primarily two ways to stop a Pokémon from evolving: using an Everstone or pressing the 'B' button during the evolution sequence. Each method has its own quirks and advantages, so let’s dive in.

The Everstone Method

The Everstone is a nifty little item that, when held by a Pokémon, prevents it from evolving. Think of it as a magical no-evolution shield. Here’s how to use it:

Obtain an Everstone: Everstones can be found in various locations depending on the Pokémon game you're playing. Check online guides or in-game item lists to pinpoint where to snag one in your specific game.
Give the Everstone to Your Pokémon: Simply go into your bag, select the Everstone, and give it to the Pokémon you want to keep from evolving. The Pokémon needs to hold the item for it to work.
Level Up or Meet Evolution Conditions: Now, you can battle, train, and do whatever you need to do to level up your Pokémon or meet any other evolution conditions (like friendship levels). As long as the Everstone is equipped, evolution won't occur.

The beauty of the Everstone is its consistency. You don't have to worry about timing button presses or accidentally letting your Pokémon evolve. It's a set-it-and-forget-it solution.

The 'B' Button Method

The 'B' button method is the old-school way to stop evolution. It requires a bit of timing and vigilance but can be handy if you don't have an Everstone or prefer a more hands-on approach. Here’s how it works:

Recognize the Evolution Sequence: When your Pokémon levels up and is about to evolve, the evolution sequence will start. You'll see the screen change, and the Pokémon will begin to transform.
Press 'B' Repeatedly: As soon as the evolution sequence starts, mash the 'B' button on your Nintendo Switch (or whatever console you’re using). Keep pressing it until the sequence ends.
Success (or Failure): If you press 'B' with enough gusto, the evolution will be interrupted, and you'll get a message saying something like, "(Pokémon name) wants to evolve, but it stopped!" If you don't press 'B' in time, well, congrats on your newly evolved Pokémon!

This method is a bit riskier because you need to be alert and have quick reflexes. Accidentally spacing out for a second can result in an unwanted evolution.

Common Scenarios and Solutions

Let's tackle some common scenarios you might encounter when trying to prevent evolution.

What if I Accidentally Let My Pokémon Evolve?

Oops! We've all been there. If you accidentally let your Pokémon evolve, there's usually no going back within the game itself. However, depending on the game, you might be able to trade it to another game or use external tools to revert it, but these methods can be complex and might not be available in all cases.

Can I Stop an Evolution That Requires Trading?

For Pokémon that evolve through trading, like Kadabra evolving into Alakazam, the process is a bit different. You can still use an Everstone to prevent evolution immediately after the trade. If the Pokémon is holding an Everstone when it's traded, it won't evolve upon arrival in the new game.

What About Pokémon That Evolve Through Friendship?

Pokémon that evolve based on friendship levels, like Eevee evolving into Sylveon, can also be prevented from evolving with an Everstone. Just make sure your Pokémon is holding the Everstone as its friendship level increases.

Tips and Tricks for Trainers

Here are some extra tips to make your Pokémon-keeping-from-evolving journey smoother:

Plan Ahead: Before you start training a Pokémon you want to keep unevolved, get an Everstone ready. Knowing where to find one in your game can save you a lot of hassle.
Stay Alert: If you're using the 'B' button method, pay close attention when your Pokémon is about to level up. Keep your finger poised and ready to mash that button!
Consider Breeding: If you want multiple copies of an unevolved Pokémon, breeding is your best bet. You can even pass down the Everstone to the offspring by having one of the parents hold it in the Day Care.

Conclusion

So there you have it, trainers! Stopping Pokémon evolution is a simple yet strategic aspect of the game that can add a lot of fun and customization to your team. Whether you're rocking an Everstone or mastering the 'B' button, you now have the knowledge to keep your Pokémon exactly as you like them. Happy training, and may your teams always be exactly as you envision them!