How to Evolve Riolu in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Since its introduction in Pokemon Diamond and Pearl, Lucario has become one of the fan-favorite Pokemon. All thanks to its Anubis-like intimidating design and competitive capabilities. But, before you can own one, you might need to evolve a Riolu first. Here’s how you can evolve a Riolu into Lucario in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.

How To Evolve Riolu Into Lucario in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet

In Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, a Riolu can evolve into a Lucario once it reaches a high enough Friendship and leveled up during the day. There are a few easy ways to increase a Pokemon’s Friendship level:

1. Walking with them.
2. Leveling them up (Fainting decreases Friendship)
3. Doing autobattles with Let’s Go mode.
4. Washing them during Picnic.
5. Let them hold Soothe Bell item.
6. Catching them in a Friend Ball also increases the Friendship gain rate.

To check your Friendship level, talk with the Friendship Checker — the NPC standing near a Marril — in the middle area of Cascarrafa.

Riolu usually spawns in Grass and Mountain biomes, particularly in South Province (Area Four). Meanwhile, Lucario can be spotted around Rocky and Mountain biomes, in South Province (Area Four), South Province (Area Six), North Province (Area One), and North Province (Area Two). Thankfully, both Pokemon are not subject to version exclusivity and are available to be caught by Pokemon Scarlet and Violet owners.

Lucario Base Stats – Generation IX

• Type: Fighting/Steel
• HP: 70
• Attack: 110
• Defense: 70
• Special Attack: 115
• Special Defense: 70
• Speed: 90
• Ability:
  • Steadfast: Increases Speed by one stage when flinched.
  • Inner Focus: Prevents flinching and effect from Intimidate. However, it’s not resistant to Mold Breaker, Teravolt, or Turboblaze.
• Hidden Ability: Justified – When hit by a Dark-type damaging move, its Attack is increased by one stage.

Movelist:

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are available on Nintendo Switch.