How to Get Riolu in Pokemon Sword and Evolve It
Finding Riolu in Pokemon Sword can prove to be a challenging endeavor for trainers traversing the vast Galar region. This popular Fighting-type creature serves as the pre-evolution for the fan-favorite Lucario, making it a valuable addition to any roster. Knowing the precise spawn conditions and evolution triggers allows players to streamline their team building efficiently.
Where to Locate Wild Riolu in Pokemon Sword
Wild Riolu appears strictly within the Giant's Cap section of the Wild Area during heavy snowstorms. Because it only features a rare five percent chance to spawn in the overworld, searching for one demands patience. Changing system weather settings can help trigger the necessary blizzard conditions across the zone faster.
If finding a wild spawn proves too tedious, trainers can opt to catch a wild Lucario instead. Lucario frequently roams as a strong wandering encounter near North Lake Miloch under clear weather conditions. Breeding this Lucario with a Ditto at the Galar Nursery produces a Riolu Egg that hatches quickly.
Boosting Friendship Rating with Your Riolu
Unlike standard evolution lines that rely strictly on level thresholds, Riolu demands a high friendship rating to evolve. Equipping Riolu with a Soothe Bell significantly accelerates the amount of happiness gained from daily activities. Keeping Riolu in your party while walking around Galar steadily increases its affection.
Setting up a Pokemon Camp offers the fastest route toward building maximum friendship with your new companion. Interacting with Riolu using toy feathers and preparing delicious curry meals rapidly builds its trust. You can verify your current friendship level by visiting the young boy inside the house near the Hammerlocke Pokemon Center.
Evolving Riolu into Lucario During Daylight
After reaching the necessary friendship threshold, Riolu requires a single level increase during daytime hours to trigger its transformation into Lucario. Sunlight is mandatory for this process, meaning leveling up at night will delay the evolution until the next morning. Using an Exp. Candy or battling wild Pokemon in daylight instantly triggers the change.
Trainers should ensure Riolu does not faint in battle, as fainting reduces its hard-earned friendship level. Once evolved, Lucario acquires a powerful Fighting and Steel typing that grants useful defensive resistances. Mastering these mechanics guarantees you can secure a formidable Lucario for your adventure.