For players revisiting the original Kanto region in Fire Red, understanding how to evolve Scyther remains a classic challenge. This powerful Bug/Flying type boasts impressive stats, but its evolution line requires specific knowledge that isn't always obvious to new trainers. The journey from Scyther to Scizor is one of the most rewarding transformations in the game, offering a significant boost in defensive capabilities and movepool flexibility. Mastering this process is essential for anyone aiming to build a competitive team in the Fire Red version.
The Pre-Evolution Requirements
Before attempting to evolve your Scyther, you must ensure it meets the basic criteria for evolution. The creature must be at least level 20 to unlock the potential for evolution, although the method used is what truly determines the final outcome. It is crucial to note that in Fire Red, there is no specific "Scytherite" item, as the evolution is triggered entirely by player action and the item held during the process. Having the correct setup before leveling up will save you from potential frustration and wasted experience points.
Item-Based Evolution: The Metal Coat Method
The primary method for evolving Scyther into Scizor involves using a specific held item during level up. This technique requires preparation, as you need to acquire a Metal Coat, an item that can be found in specific locations or purchased later in the game. Attaching this item to your Scyther before it gains a level is the critical step that changes the evolution into Scizor. If you forget to attach the item, the evolution will default to the standard form, forcing you to try again.
Where to Find the Metal Coat
Pokémon Tower in Lavender Town (requires specific story progression).
Goldenrod Department Store on the fifth floor.
Various high-level wild Pokémon have a chance to hold it upon capture.
The Execution Process
Once your Scyther is at or above level 20 and holding a Metal Coat, you can proceed with the evolution. Engage in battle with any wild Pokémon or trainer to gain experience points. When the battle concludes and the level-up animation occurs, check your Pokémon immediately after the evolution sequence. If the item was held correctly, the animation will be accompanied by the distinctive sound of metal clanking, and your Scyther will emerge as a Scizor. This visual and audio cue confirms that the evolution was successful.
Alternative Evolution: Trading
An older, more traditional method exists for evolving Scyther, which involves the use of the game's trading system. In this approach, you attach a Metal Coat to the Scyther and then initiate a trade with another player, even if that player is yourself via a link cable or local wireless. When the trade is accepted, the Scyther will evolve into Scizor. Upon completing the trade, the Scizor will retain the Metal Coat, although it becomes purely cosmetic as the evolution is now complete. This method is particularly useful for players who enjoy the social aspects of the game.
Post-Evolution Advantages
Evolving your Scyther into Scizor provides substantial benefits that make the effort worthwhile. Scizor gains a significant boost in Defense, making it far more resilient to physical attacks. Its typing changes to Bug/Steel, granting it a valuable resistance to Normal, Grass, Ice, and Psychic moves. This new typing also removes the critical weakness to Rock-type attacks that the Bug/Flying typing previously had, solidifying Scizor as a formidable wall in the late game. The move Bullet Punch, a priority Steel-type attack, becomes available, allowing Scizor to strike first and potentially decide the outcome of a match.
