In the expansive world of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, trainers encounter a myriad of creatures, each with its unique traits and evolution methods. Among these is Finizen, a delightful Water-type Pokémon that resembles a playful dolphin. Evolving Finizen into its formidable form, Palafin, requires specific steps that set it apart from other evolutions. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough on how to evolve Finizen, ensuring trainers can harness the full potential of this aquatic companion.

Understanding Finizen

Finizen is introduced in the Paldea region and quickly captures the hearts of trainers with its charming demeanor. Its design draws inspiration from real-world dolphins, known for their intelligence and sociability. As a pure Water-type Pokémon, Finizen boasts strengths against Fire, Ground, and Rock-type opponents, making it a valuable asset in various battles.

Locating Finizen in Paldea

To begin the journey of evolving Finizen, trainers must first locate and capture it. Finizen is predominantly found in the oceanic areas surrounding the Paldea region. Specifically, trainers can encounter Finizen in the following locations:

• East Paldean Sea: The waters east of Paldea are teeming with marine life, including Finizen.
• West Paldean Sea: Exploring the western seas offers a good chance of encountering this Water-type Pokémon.
• South Paldean Sea: The southern maritime regions are also known habitats for Finizen.
• North Paldean Sea: Trainers venturing into the northern waters can find Finizen among other aquatic species.

It’s important to note that while Finizen can appear near shorelines, having the swimming ability for Koraidon or Miraidon enhances the chances of encountering and capturing Finizen in deeper waters.

Evolving Finizen into Palafin

Evolving Finizen into Palafin is a unique process that emphasizes the cooperative aspects of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. The steps to achieve this evolution are as follows:

1. Level Up Finizen: Ensure that Finizen reaches at least level 38. This can be accomplished through regular battles, utilizing Rare Candies, or using EXP Candies.
2. Engage in Multiplayer Mode: The evolution process requires participation in a Union Circle session, which is the game’s cooperative multiplayer feature. Trainers can join or host a Union Circle either locally or online.
   • Accessing Union Circle: Visit any Pokémon Center and interact with the yellow kiosk to open the Poké Portal menu. From there, select the Union Circle option.
   • Forming or Joining a Group: Trainers can choose to form a new group and invite friends or join an existing group by entering a provided link code.
3. Level Up During Union Circle Session: While in the Union Circle session, level up Finizen once more. This can be achieved through battles or by using items like Rare Candies. Upon leveling up during this multiplayer session, Finizen will evolve into Palafin.

Understanding Palafin and Its Forms

Upon evolution, trainers might notice that Palafin closely resembles Finizen, with the primary distinction being a heart-shaped symbol on its chest. This form is known as Palafin’s Zero Form. However, Palafin possesses a unique ability called Zero to Herowhich allows it to transform into its Hero Form during battles, significantly boosting its stats.

Activating Hero Form

To utilize Palafin’s Hero Form:

1. Enter a Battle: Send Palafin into battle as you would with any other Pokémon.
2. Switch Out Palafin: During the battle, switch Palafin out to another Pokémon in your party.
3. Reintroduce Palafin: After being switched out, send Palafin back into the battle. Upon re-entry, Palafin will transform into its Hero Form, showcasing a more muscular appearance and enhanced stats.

This strategic mechanic encourages trainers to think tactically about when to switch Palafin in and out of battles to maximize its potential.

Alternative Methods to Obtain Palafin

For trainers who may find the Union Circle method challenging, there is an alternative way to acquire Palafin:

• Tera Raid Battles: Palafin can occasionally appear in 5-star Tera Raid Battles. These raids are challenging and require a well-prepared team, but successfully completing them offers a chance to catch Palafin directly.

Strategic Advantages of Palafin

Palafin’s unique ability and transformation mechanics provide several strategic benefits:

• Enhanced Stats: In its Hero Form, Palafin’s stats receive significant boosts, making it a formidable opponent in battles.
• Versatile Moveset: Palafin can learn a variety of moves, allowing trainers to adapt their strategies based on the opponents they face.
• Element of Surprise: The transformation from Zero Form to Hero Form can catch opponents off guard, providing a tactical advantage in battles.