How to Evolve Vulpix into Ninetales in Every Pokémon Game
Evolving Pokémon is a core mechanic of the Pokémon franchise, and Vulpix, the charming Fox Pokémon, is no exception. Its evolution, Ninetales, is a sought-after Pokémon with its elegant design and powerful stats. However, the method to evolve Vulpix varies slightly depending on the generation of Pokémon game you’re playing. This comprehensive guide provides detailed instructions on how to evolve Vulpix into Ninetales in every Pokémon game, ensuring you don’t miss a step.
## Understanding Vulpix and Ninetales
Before we dive into the evolution process, let’s familiarize ourselves with Vulpix and Ninetales.
* **Vulpix:** This Fire-type Pokémon is known for its six beautiful tails and adorable appearance. It’s a relatively common Pokémon in most games where it’s available, making it relatively easy to find and catch.
* **Ninetales:** The evolved form of Vulpix. Ninetales is also a Fire-type, except for the Alolan Ninetales, which is an Ice/Fairy-type. Ninetales is known for its wisdom and longevity, with legends claiming it can live for a thousand years. It boasts improved stats compared to Vulpix, making it a valuable addition to any team. The Alolan Ninetales is an Ice/Fairy type, so evolution is different from the original Vulpix.
## General Requirements for Evolving Vulpix
Regardless of the specific game, there are a few general requirements to keep in mind when evolving Vulpix:
* **A Vulpix:** This seems obvious, but you can’t evolve what you don’t have! You’ll need to find and catch a Vulpix in the wild or obtain one through trading.
* **A Fire Stone (for most games):** The primary method for evolving Vulpix into Ninetales is through the use of a Fire Stone. These stones can be found in various locations throughout the game world, purchased from shops, or obtained as rewards for completing certain tasks.
* **Leveling Up (for Alolan Vulpix):** For Alolan Vulpix, you need to level it up in a cold climate, not use a stone.
* **Patience:** Finding the right item and leveling up can take time, so be patient and persistent.
## Evolving Vulpix in Each Generation
Now, let’s explore the specific steps for evolving Vulpix into Ninetales in each generation of Pokémon games.
### Generation I: Red, Blue, and Yellow
In the original Pokémon games, evolving Vulpix is straightforward:
1. **Catch a Vulpix:** Vulpix is exclusive to Pokémon Blue. If you’re playing Pokémon Red, you’ll need to trade with someone who has Pokémon Blue.
2. **Obtain a Fire Stone:** Fire Stones can be found in the Celadon Department Store for a purchase price of 2,100 Pokédollars. They are located on the fourth floor.
3. **Use the Fire Stone:** Open your Bag, select the Fire Stone, and use it on Vulpix. The evolution will begin immediately.
### Generation II: Gold, Silver, and Crystal
The process remains similar to Generation I:
1. **Catch a Vulpix:** Vulpix appears on Route 8.
2. **Obtain a Fire Stone:** Fire Stones can be obtained in several ways:
* **Pokéathlon Dome:** Redeem your points for a Fire Stone.
* **Trainers:** Phone trainers that you have battled before, some might give you Fire Stones if you call them on certain days.
* **Mystery Gift:** Though no longer available, it was once an option.
3. **Use the Fire Stone:** Open your Bag, select the Fire Stone, and use it on Vulpix.
### Generation III: Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald
In these games, the method remains consistent:
1. **Catch a Vulpix:** Vulpix is not natively available in Ruby and Sapphire. It’s only obtainable in Emerald at Mt. Pyre.
2. **Obtain a Fire Stone:** Fire Stones can be found in the following locations:
* **Fire Stone Location 1:** Fiery Path.
* **Fire Stone Location 2:** Lilycove Department Store.
3. **Use the Fire Stone:** Open your Bag, select the Fire Stone, and use it on Vulpix.
### Generation IV: Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum
1. **Catch a Vulpix:** Vulpix appears on Route 209 and Route 214.
2. **Obtain a Fire Stone:** Fire Stones can be found in the following locations:
* **Fire Stone Location 1:** Fuego Ironworks.
* **Fire Stone Location 2:** The Underground (Mining).
* **Fire Stone Location 3:** Pick up item on Route 212.
3. **Use the Fire Stone:** Open your Bag, select the Fire Stone, and use it on Vulpix.
### Generation V: Black and White, Black 2 and White 2
1. **Catch a Vulpix:** Vulpix can be found at Abundant Shrine.
2. **Obtain a Fire Stone:** Fire Stones can be found in the following locations:
* **Dust Clouds:** Found in caves, such as Chargestone Cave or Twist Mountain.
* **Route 18:** Pick up item.
3. **Use the Fire Stone:** Open your Bag, select the Fire Stone, and use it on Vulpix.
### Generation VI: X and Y, Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire
1. **Catch a Vulpix:**
* **X and Y:** Vulpix appears on Route 6.
* **Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire:** Transfer it from another game, as it’s unavailable in the wild.
2. **Obtain a Fire Stone:** Fire Stones can be found in the following locations:
* **X and Y:** Found in Laverre City. Go to the northwest part of town and use Dowsing Machine.
* **Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire:** Route 124.
3. **Use the Fire Stone:** Open your Bag, select the Fire Stone, and use it on Vulpix.
### Generation VII: Sun and Moon, Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon
This generation introduces regional variants, including Alolan Vulpix, which evolves differently.
* **Kanto Vulpix:**
1. **Catch a Vulpix:** You can only acquire this through trading or transferring from previous games via Pokémon Bank, as it does not appear in the wild.
2. **Obtain a Fire Stone:** Fire Stones can be found in the following locations:
* **Diglett’s Tunnel**
* **Konikoni City:** Purchase at Olivia’s jewelry store.
3. **Use the Fire Stone:** Open your Bag, select the Fire Stone, and use it on Vulpix.
* **Alolan Vulpix:**
1. **Catch an Alolan Vulpix:** Alolan Vulpix can be found on Mount Lanakila.
2. **Evolution Method:** Alolan Vulpix evolves into Alolan Ninetales when leveled up at Mount Lanakila, which is a cold area. Ensure that your Vulpix is holding no Everstone. Level up at night or day on Mount Lanakila.
### Generation VIII: Sword and Shield, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, Legends: Arceus
* **Sword and Shield:**
1. **Catch a Vulpix:** Vulpix appears on Route 8.
2. **Obtain a Fire Stone:** Fire Stones can be found in the following locations:
* **Lake of Outrage:** In the Wild Area, behind the Stones.
* **Digging Duo:** Ask them to find one for you.
3. **Use the Fire Stone:** Open your Bag, select the Fire Stone, and use it on Vulpix.
* **Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl:**
1. **Catch a Vulpix:** Vulpix appears on Route 209 and Route 214. However, it is a Pokemon exclusive to Pokemon Pearl.
2. **Obtain a Fire Stone:** Fire Stones can be found in the following locations:
* **Fuego Ironworks**
* **The Underground (Mining)**
* **Pick up item on Route 212**
3. **Use the Fire Stone:** Open your Bag, select the Fire Stone, and use it on Vulpix.
* **Legends: Arceus**
1. **Catch a Vulpix:**
* **Standard Vulpix:** Can be found in the Cobalt Coastlands (specifically, Cape Veil).
* **Alolan Vulpix:** Complete Request 83 ‘Snow-White Vulpix in the Snow’. You will then be able to find it in the Alabaster Icelands, near the Avalanche Slopes.
2. **Evolving Vulpix:**
* **Standard Vulpix:** Use a Fire Stone.
* **Alolan Vulpix:** Use an Ice Stone.
### Generation IX: Scarlet and Violet
1. **Catch a Vulpix:** Vulpix appear in South Province (Area Four) and West Province (Area One).
2. **Obtain a Fire Stone:** Fire Stones can be found in the following locations:
* **South Province (Area Five):** Located near a cliff area.
* **Porto Marinada Auction:** Periodically offered in the auction.
* **Delibird Presents Stores:** Available after you have three gym badges.
3. **Use the Fire Stone:** Open your Bag, select the Fire Stone, and use it on Vulpix.
## Tips for Finding Fire Stones
Finding Fire Stones can sometimes be challenging, but here are some helpful tips:
* **Explore Thoroughly:** Check every nook and cranny of the areas where Fire Stones are known to appear. Hidden items can be well-hidden.
* **Use Dowsing Machines/Itemfinders:** These tools, available in some games, can help you locate hidden items, including Fire Stones.
* **Check Shops Regularly:** The items available in shops can change over time, so check back periodically to see if a Fire Stone has become available.
* **Talk to NPCs:** Non-player characters (NPCs) can sometimes provide hints about the location of rare items or even give you a Fire Stone directly.
* **Mining:** In games with mining mechanics, Fire Stones can sometimes be found as rare drops.
* **Participate in Events:** Some games hold special events that offer rare items as rewards, including evolution stones.
## Troubleshooting Common Evolution Problems
If you’re having trouble evolving Vulpix, here are some common issues and their solutions:
* **Incorrect Stone:** Make sure you’re using a Fire Stone (or Ice Stone for Alolan Vulpix in Legends: Arceus) . Using the wrong stone will not trigger the evolution.
* **Not Using the Stone:** Ensure that you actually select the Fire Stone from your bag and use it on Vulpix. Simply having the stone in your inventory is not enough.
* **Game Glitches:** In rare cases, a game glitch may prevent evolution. Try saving and restarting your game to see if that resolves the issue.
* **Wrong Location (Alolan Vulpix):** Ensure you are leveling up your Alolan Vulpix on Mount Lanakila in Sun/Moon/Ultra Sun/Ultra Moon or using an Ice Stone in Legends: Arceus.
* **Everstone:** Make sure that Vulpix isn’t holding an Everstone. This item prevents evolution.
## Conclusion
Evolving Vulpix into Ninetales is a rewarding experience that enhances your Pokémon team. By following these detailed instructions specific to each generation of Pokémon games, you’ll be well-equipped to obtain this elegant and powerful Pokémon. Remember to be patient, explore thoroughly, and enjoy the journey of evolving your Vulpix!