How to Evolve Pokémon in Pokémon TCG

Reviewed by Emchompite

Last Updated: November 5, 2025

Have you ever played with Pokémon cards? If you do, you probably have a lot of basic Pokémon. If this is the case, do you have the evolutions of your basic cards? If so, do you want to learn how to evolve them in a battle quickly? Is so, this article will provide you with the information you need.

Steps

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1
Start a game of Pokémon TCG. This can be against anyone that you choose, no-matter what either of your skill levels are.
2
Have a basic Pokémon on your active or bench, as well as the evolution in your hand. The Pokémon a card evolves from is listed on the top left, under the name. A basic Pokémon will evolve into a Stage 1 Pokémon, which will evolve into a Stage 2.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Emchompite
Pokémon Gaming and Collectibles Expert

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- You can find its evolution by searching it from your deck or drawing into it.
- You can also use something Supporter cards, which are special Trainer cards that usually help you draw cards. Use them to draw cards from your deck to increase the chance of getting an evolution card.
  - You can only play one Supporter per turn.
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3
Evolve the Pokémon by placing the evolution on top of it. You can only evolve during your turn, as long as it is not your first turn, or if the Pokémon you’re evolving wasn’t just put in play (this includes evolving a Pokémon).^{[2]
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Expert Source

Emchompite
Pokémon Gaming and Collectibles Expert

Expert Interview}
- You can bypass these restrictions by using an ability like Delta Evolution.
- Pokémon can also be evolved by using Item cards or effects, like Rare Candy or Wally.
- The evolved Pokémon will have its special conditions cured, but will keep its damage and energy, and cannot use the moves of its pre-evolution. It's also usually more powerful, with higher HP and stronger attacks.
4
Have fun with evolving your Pokémon cards!

Community Q&A

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Question

How do I make a strong deck?

TheArtOfSarcasm

Community Answer

Be sure to have basic Pokemon with evolved forms in your deck. It's also worth adding various items and energy cards to your deck.

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How many Pokemon can I evolve at 1 turn?

TheArtOfSarcasm

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Although it does depend on how you are playing, typically you can only evolve one.

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If you evolve your Pokemon, does it mean your turn ends?

Blaziken77g

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If you evolve your Pokemon, your turn doesn't end unless stated by a card in play (in the active positions or in the form of stadiums).

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Tips

Play alongside the rules.

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Most importantly of all, have fun. It is just a game, which is designed to create joy in its players.

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Remember that you need to have the second card to evolve it.

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