How to Evolve Machoke in Pokemon Legends: Arceus

Evolving Pokémon like Machoke in Pokémon Legends: Arceus can take a bit of working out. Here's what you need to know.

For as long as Pokémon has been around, there have been some creatures that have special requirements before they undergo an evolution. Machoke is one of them, having traditionally needed to undergo a trade before it evolves into Machamp.

But, with Pokémon Legends: Arceus and its focus on the single-player experience, that's not always necessary. This means that certain Pokemon who would usually need to be traded to evolve, like Machoke or Haunter, can also use something else in order to change forms.

Here's what you need to know about evolving Machoke into Machamp in Pokémon Legends: Arceus.

How to Evolve Machoke in Pokemon Legends: Arceus

In order to evolve Machoke into Machamp in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, you'll need to get your hands on a Linking Cord.

Players can purchase the Linking Cord from the Trading Post/Item Exchange shop in Jubilife Village. It costs 1,000 Merit Points, which players can obtain by returning the lost satchels of other players out in the world. 

There's also a slight chance that players can pick one up from a space-time distortion.

After obtaining a Linking Cord, with Machoke in your party you'll see that the item is compatible. Use it on your Machoke to trigger the evolution into Machamp. The item is single-use, however, so be sure to use it on the right Machoke. Once used, you'll need to find another one if you want to trigger another evolution.

It's worth noting that trading Pokémon is still a feature in Pokémon Legends: Arceus and can also be done via the Trading Post/Item Exchange. Simply trade your Machoke to another player and it'll evolve like normal. But, thankfully, trading Pokémon is no longer the only option available.

For all other evolution inquiries, make sure to check out our guide for evolving Pokemon in Pokemon Legends: Arceus.