How to Evolve Gligar into Gliscor: A Comprehensive Guide

Evolving Pokémon is a core element of the Pokémon experience, and certain evolutions require specific methods beyond simply leveling up. One such Pokémon is Gligar, a Ground/Flying-type Pokémon introduced in Generation II. Gligar evolves into the powerful Gliscor, a Ground/Flying type that becomes incredibly useful in both casual playthroughs and competitive battling. However, evolving Gligar requires a specific item and condition. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of evolving Gligar into Gliscor, ensuring you understand the process regardless of the Pokémon game you’re playing.

Understanding Gligar and Gliscor

Before diving into the evolution process, let’s briefly understand Gligar and Gliscor.

* **Gligar:** Gligar is known as the Flyscorpion Pokémon. It’s a dual-type Ground/Flying Pokémon characterized by its scorpion-like appearance and ability to glide through the air. Gligar is generally found in mountainous regions and caves. In battle, Gligar has decent Attack and Speed stats but lacks significant defensive capabilities before evolution.

* **Gliscor:** Gliscor is the evolved form of Gligar, also a Ground/Flying-type. Gliscor’s design transforms Gligar’s scorpion-like features into a more menacing, bat-like appearance. Gliscor is significantly stronger than Gligar, possessing much higher Attack and Defense stats, making it a formidable opponent. Gliscor is well-regarded for its access to powerful moves and its Poison Heal ability when holding a Toxic Orb, making it a common choice in competitive battles.

The Key to Evolution: The Razor Fang

The critical item needed to evolve Gligar is the **Razor Fang**. This item is a held item that, when used under a specific condition, triggers Gligar’s evolution into Gliscor. The Razor Fang is described as having a jagged edge and possessing considerable sharpness. It’s often associated with Pokémon that have sharp claws or fangs.

Where to Find the Razor Fang

Finding the Razor Fang can vary depending on the Pokémon game you’re playing. Here’s a breakdown of where to obtain it in several popular titles:

* **Pokémon Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum:**
* **Route 214:** The Razor Fang can be found on Route 214 using the Hidden Moves (HM) Rock Climb to access an otherwise unreachable area.
* **Battle Frontier (Platinum only):** You can purchase the Razor Fang for 35 BP (Battle Points) at the Battle Frontier.
* **Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver:**
* **Battle Frontier:** Similar to Platinum, you can purchase the Razor Fang for 48 BP at the Battle Frontier after defeating Red.
* **Nighttime Item Pickup:** With some luck, certain Pokémon with the Pickup ability might find a Razor Fang after battles. This is a less reliable method but worth considering if you have a Pokémon with Pickup in your party.
* **Pokémon Black and White:**
* **Route 13:** The Razor Fang can be found on Route 13 as a hidden item. Use the Dowsing Machine (obtained from Professor Juniper) to locate it.
* **Giant Chasm:** Similar to Route 13, the Razor Fang can be found in the Giant Chasm as a hidden item using the Dowsing Machine.
* **Pokémon Black 2 and White 2:**
* **Route 13 and Giant Chasm:** The Razor Fang locations are the same as in Black and White, found as hidden items using the Dowsing Machine.
* **PWT (Pokémon World Tournament):** You can earn Battle Points at the PWT and exchange them for a Razor Fang.
* **Pokémon X and Y:**
* **Battle Maison:** The Razor Fang can be purchased for 48 BP at the Battle Maison.
* **Terminus Cave:** The Razor Fang can be found in Terminus Cave.
* **Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire:**
* **Battle Maison:** Same as X and Y, the Razor Fang can be purchased for 48 BP at the Battle Maison.
* **Mirage Spots:** Occasionally, the Razor Fang can be found in Mirage Spots that appear randomly on the map.
* **Pokémon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon:**
* **Poni Gauntlet:** The Razor Fang can be found as a hidden item in Poni Gauntlet. Use Tauros Charge to smash the rocks blocking your path.
* **Battle Royal Dome:** You can purchase the Razor Fang for 32 BP at the Battle Royal Dome.
* **Pokémon Sword and Shield:**
* **Lake of Outrage (Wild Area):** The Razor Fang can be found in the Lake of Outrage area of the Wild Area. It respawns periodically.
* **Battle Tower:** You can purchase the Razor Fang for 25 BP at the Battle Tower.
* **Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl:**
* The Razor Fang can be found on Route 214 using the Hidden Moves (HM) Rock Climb to access an otherwise unreachable area.
* You can purchase the Razor Fang for 5 BP at the Battle Park. You can obtain BP by winning battles in the Battle Tower.
* **Pokémon Legends: Arceus:**
* The Razor Claw (functions as Razor Fang for Gligar evolution) can be found in Space-Time Distortions, specifically in the Crimson Mirelands and Coronet Highlands.
* You can purchase it from the Trading Post in Jubilife Village for Merit Points (MP) earned by finding lost satchels.
* **Pokémon Scarlet and Violet:**
* **Delibird Presents (Mesagoza):** Purchase the Razor Fang for ₽3,000.
* **Casseroya Lake:** Found as an item on the ground in Casseroya Lake. Check online maps for precise locations.

Tips for Finding Hidden Items

When searching for hidden items like the Razor Fang, keep these tips in mind:

* **Use the Dowsing Machine/Itemfinder:** These key items (available in most games) help locate hidden items in your vicinity. They usually emit a signal or sound when you’re near a hidden item.
* **Check Corners and Dead Ends:** Hidden items are often tucked away in corners, behind rocks, or at the end of paths.
* **Consult Online Resources:** Websites and online communities dedicated to Pokémon often provide detailed maps and locations of hidden items.

The Evolution Process: Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you’ve obtained the Razor Fang, follow these steps to evolve Gligar into Gliscor:

1. **Give the Razor Fang to Gligar:** Access your bag and select the Razor Fang. Choose “Give” and select Gligar from your party. Gligar must be holding the Razor Fang for the evolution to occur.
2. **Level Up Gligar at Night:** This is the most crucial step. Gligar must level up while holding the Razor Fang **during nighttime**. The game’s internal clock determines whether it’s night or day. Make sure your Nintendo DS/3DS/Switch or emulator clock is correctly set if you’re playing an older game.

* **How to Determine Nighttime:** Generally, nighttime is considered to be from 8:00 PM to 4:00 AM in-game time. However, this can vary slightly between different Pokémon games. Look at the in-game sky and lighting to confirm that it’s nighttime. Some games have a clock on the screen to verify the time directly.
3. **Leveling Up:** There are several ways to level up Gligar:

* **Battling:** Participate in battles against wild Pokémon or trainers. This is the most common method.
* **Rare Candies:** Rare Candies instantly raise a Pokémon’s level by one. This is a quick but often limited resource. Save these for when you’re in a pinch.
* **Exp. Share:** If you have the Exp. Share enabled (a key item available in later games), Gligar will gain experience even if it doesn’t participate in the battle, as long as it’s in your party.
4. **Witness the Evolution:** Once Gligar levels up at night while holding the Razor Fang, it will begin to evolve into Gliscor. Congratulations!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

* **Gligar isn’t evolving even though it’s holding the Razor Fang:**

* **Check the Time:** Ensure that it’s actually nighttime in the game. A slight miscalculation can prevent the evolution.
* **Level Up:** Gligar needs to *level up* while holding the Razor Fang at night. Simply holding the item won’t trigger the evolution.
* **Razor Fang:** Make sure you actually gave Gligar the Razor Fang and it’s holding it.
* **I can’t find the Razor Fang:**

* **Double-Check Locations:** Review the specific locations mentioned earlier for your game version. Use online maps for detailed guides.
* **Hidden Items:** Remember to use the Dowsing Machine/Itemfinder for hidden items. They often require a bit of searching.
* **Battle Points:** If available in your game, consider earning Battle Points at the Battle Frontier/Maison/Tower to purchase the Razor Fang.
* **My game doesn’t have a day/night cycle:**

* **Older Games:** Some older Pokémon games (like the original Red, Blue, and Yellow) do not have a day/night cycle. Therefore, Gligar cannot evolve in those games. You would need to trade Gligar to a game that *does* have a day/night cycle.

Gliscor’s Strengths and Strategies

Once you have your Gliscor, it’s time to put it to use. Gliscor is a powerful Pokémon with several strengths:

* **High Defense:** Gliscor possesses excellent Defense, making it difficult to take down with physical attacks.
* **Good Attack:** Gliscor also has a respectable Attack stat, allowing it to deal significant damage.
* **Poison Heal Ability:** When holding a Toxic Orb, Gliscor’s Poison Heal ability heals it each turn instead of taking poison damage. This provides incredible sustain and makes it a formidable wall.
* **Versatile Movepool:** Gliscor has access to a wide range of moves, including Earthquake, Acrobatics, Stone Edge, Swords Dance, and Roost.

Here are some common strategies for using Gliscor in battle:

* **Defensive Wall:** Utilize Gliscor’s high Defense and Poison Heal ability to absorb physical attacks and stall out opponents. Moves like Roost can further enhance its survivability.
* **Swords Dance Sweeper:** Use Swords Dance to boost Gliscor’s Attack stat, then unleash powerful physical attacks like Earthquake or Acrobatics.
* **Status Absorber:** Gliscor can switch into status moves like Toxic or Will-O-Wisp, benefiting from Poison Heal rather than being hindered by them.
* **Hazard Control:** With access to moves like Defog (in some generations), Gliscor can remove entry hazards like Stealth Rock from the field, supporting your team.

Recommended Movesets

Here are a couple of example movesets for Gliscor:

* **Defensive Wall:**
* Earthquake
* Roost
* Toxic
* Protect
* *Item:* Toxic Orb
* *Ability:* Poison Heal
* **Swords Dance Sweeper:**
* Earthquake
* Acrobatics
* Swords Dance
* Roost/Stone Edge
* *Item:* Toxic Orb/Life Orb
* *Ability:* Poison Heal

Conclusion

Evolving Gligar into Gliscor is a rewarding process that yields a powerful and versatile Pokémon. By following the steps outlined in this guide – obtaining the Razor Fang, holding it, and leveling up at night – you can add Gliscor to your team and dominate your opponents. Remember to explore the different strategies and movesets available to maximize Gliscor’s potential. Happy training!