Trading Pokémon has always been a core mechanic in the Pokémon series, and Pokémon Legends: Arceus is no exception. While the game introduces many new features and changes to the traditional formula, trading remains a vital way to complete your Pokédex and obtain powerful Pokémon. If you're wondering how to trade with friends or evolve certain Pokémon, you've come to the right place.

To trade Pokémon in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, you need to visit Simona at the trading post in Jubilife Village. You can trade with other players either locally or online. For online trading, a Nintendo Switch Online membership is required. You and your trading partner will need to set and enter the same eight-digit link code to connect and begin trading.

How to Trade with Other Players

Trading in Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Head to Jubilife Village: The trading post is located in the main hub of the game, Jubilife Village. You can't miss it!

2. Speak with Simona: Simona is the NPC who facilitates all trades. Talk to her, and she'll give you the option to trade Pokémon.

3. Choose Your Trading Method: You can either trade locally with someone nearby or online with a friend from anywhere in the world. As mentioned, online trading requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership.

4. Set a Link Code: To connect with your friend, you'll both need to enter the same eight-digit link code. This ensures you connect with the right person. I remember trying to trade with my cousin who lives in a different city. We coordinated a unique link code over a call to make sure we connected with each other and not some random stranger.

5. Select Your Pokémon: Once you're connected, you can choose the Pokémon you want to trade. You'll be able to see which Pokémon your friend is offering before you confirm the trade.

Trading for Evolution

In previous Pokémon games, some Pokémon could only evolve when traded. This is still the case in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, but with a twist. The game introduces a new item called the Linking Cord. This item allows you to evolve trade-evolution Pokémon without needing to trade them at all.

You can purchase a Linking Cord from the Merit Point shop in Jubilife Village. Once you have a Linking Cord, simply use it on a Pokémon that normally evolves through trading, and it will evolve. I was so excited when I found this out! I had been wanting to evolve my Graveler into a Golem for a while, and the Linking Cord made it so much easier than having to find someone to trade with. Some of the Pokémon that evolve with the Linking Cord include:

• Kadabra into Alakazam
• Machoke into Machamp
• Graveler into Golem
• Haunter into Gengar

Of course, you can still evolve these Pokémon the old-fashioned way by trading them with a friend. For more information on the multiplayer features in the game, check out our post on whether Pokémon Legends Arceus is multiplayer.

If you're looking to get your hands on Pokémon Legends: Arceus or need to renew your Nintendo Switch Online membership for online trading, consider using Playstorm. By playing fun mobile games on the Playstorm app, you can earn gems that can be redeemed for Nintendo eShop gift cards. It's a great way to save money on your gaming purchases!