Riolu, the adorable Fighting-type Pokémon, is a fan favorite. Many players eagerly anticipate evolving it into the powerful Lucario. But knowing how to evolve Riolu in Pokémon Brilliant Diamond isn't always intuitive. This guide will walk you through the trusted methods, ensuring you add a Lucario to your team without frustration.
Understanding Riolu's Evolution Requirements
Unlike many Pokémon that evolve through leveling up or using specific items, Riolu's evolution hinges on a crucial factor: friendship. This means you need to build a strong bond with your Riolu before it will evolve. There's no shortcut; consistent attention and care are key.
Key Factors Affecting Friendship
Several actions contribute to increasing your Riolu's friendship level:
- Battling: Regularly using Riolu in battles, even if it's not always effective, increases its happiness. Winning battles provides a larger boost.
- Winning Streaks: Maintaining a winning streak significantly improves friendship. Try to avoid losing too many battles in a row.
- Using Vitamins: Items like Carbos, Protein, Iron, Calcium, Zinc, and HP Up increase friendship levels. They're readily available at various points in the game.
- Keeping Riolu Healthy: Avoid letting Riolu faint frequently. Healing it with items or at a Pokémon Center is important.
- Using Affection-Boosting Items: Certain berries can boost friendship, but their effectiveness varies. The Soothe Bell is an invaluable tool, greatly accelerating friendship increases. Equip this item on your Riolu at all times.
- Talking to it: In the main menu, you can check your Pokémon's summary and select the option to talk to them. Doing this regularly, even if it seems insignificant, contributes towards improving their friendship.
Checking Riolu's Happiness
There isn't a direct happiness meter in Pokémon Brilliant Diamond. However, you can get a good indication of your Riolu's friendship level by visiting the Pokémon daycare located in the southeast of Hearthome City. The daycare attendant will give you a vague but helpful assessment. If they describe your Riolu as "very happy," it is very likely ready to evolve.
The Evolution Trigger: Leveling Up
Once your Riolu's friendship is high enough, simply level it up. This can be done through battling wild Pokémon, training against other trainers, or using Rare Candies. Upon reaching level 30, provided its friendship is sufficiently high, it will evolve into Lucario.
Pro Tip: To maximize your chances, level it up during the day to boost happiness during the level up process.
Troubleshooting: Riolu Not Evolving?
If Riolu isn't evolving even after reaching level 30 and you feel its friendship should be high, consider these points:
- Soothe Bell: Ensure the Soothe Bell is equipped.
- Daycare Check: Get a second opinion from the daycare attendant.
- Battle Strategy: Try to use Riolu strategically. This might boost the friendship increase.
Conclusion: Your Lucario Awaits!
Evolving Riolu into Lucario is a rewarding experience. By following these trusted methods, focusing on building friendship, and strategically utilizing Riolu in battles, you'll soon have a powerful Lucario by your side, ready to take on any challenge in your Pokémon Brilliant Diamond adventure. Remember, patience and consistent care are the keys to success!
