This guide details the specialized evolution method for Inkay into Malamar within the game Pok\u00e9mon Legends: Z-A, outlining the necessary steps involving both in-game mechanics and console interaction. It also provides information on an alternative acquisition route for Malamar for players who prefer to bypass the intricate evolution process.
Unlocking Malamar: A Comprehensive Guide to Inkay's Unique Evolution and Discovery
The Enigmatic Transformation: Evolving Inkay into Malamar in Pok\u00e9mon Legends: Z-A
Converting your Inkay into the formidable Malamar in Pok\u00e9mon Legends: Z-A presents a distinctive challenge among the various evolutionary paths. Beyond merely reaching a specific level, this transformation necessitates a series of precise actions, making it one of the more intricate evolutions players will encounter. Adhering to these specific criteria is essential for successfully evolving your Inkay into its advanced form.
Prerequisites for Evolution: Preparing Your Inkay for its Metamorphosis
To initiate Inkay's evolution into Malamar, your Inkay must be an active member of your team and possess a minimum level of 30. Unlike earlier iterations, it is no longer required to level up your Inkay while your console is inverted. Once your Inkay reaches the appropriate level, you must fulfill additional conditions to proceed with the evolution:
- Ensure your Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 is operating in handheld mode with the Joy-Cons securely attached.
- Verify that all other external controllers are disconnected from the console.
With these preparations in place, two distinct techniques allow you to trigger Inkay's evolution: either by inverting your console or by reorienting your Joy-Cons. To execute the first method, simply flip your Nintendo Switch upside down before interacting with Inkay in your game menu. While there may not be an overt indication that Inkay is ready, a prominent "Evolve" option will become visible upon interaction. The second method, exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch 2 due to its modular Joy-Con design, involves detaching and reattaching the Joy-Cons in an inverted configuration. Specifically, the red-accented Joy-Con should be affixed to the left side, and the blue-accented Joy-Con to the right. Following this, access your game menu and engage with Inkay to reveal the "Evolve" prompt. It is crucial to select the "Evolve" option before restoring your console to its normal orientation, as failing to do so will interrupt the process. Once the evolution sequence begins, you are free to reposition your console as desired, including transitioning to docked play or reconnecting a Pro Controller.
Locating Malamar: An Alternative Path to Acquiring the Mind-Controlling Pok\u00e9mon
For those who prefer a less involved approach than navigating the specific evolution mechanics, Malamar can also be encountered and captured directly within Wild Zone 20. However, accessing this particular area requires players to first complete the main storyline of the game. This means that while it offers a simpler acquisition method, it may take some time before players can add the intriguing mind-controlling Pok\u00e9mon to their collection via this route.
