In the vast world of Pokémon, each creature has its own unique evolution path, which can be a crucial aspect of building a successful team. Tatsugiri, a Dragon/Water-type Pokémon introduced in Generation IX, is one such Pokémon with an interesting evolution journey. In this detailed guide, we will explore everything you need to know about when Tatsugiri evolves, including its evolution process, strategies for evolution, and tips for making the most of Tatsugiri in your Pokémon team.
What is Tatsugiri?
Tatsugiri is a Dragon/Water-type Pokémon introduced in the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet games. It is known for its vibrant appearance and its ability to blend seamlessly into its environment. Tatsugiri resembles a small, dragon-like fish and is known for its powerful moves and unique abilities that make it a valuable addition to any Pokémon team.
Key Characteristics of Tatsugiri
- Type: Dragon/Water
- Species: Fish Pokémon
- Height: 0.3 m (1’00”)
- Weight: 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs)
- Abilities: Storm Drain, Adaptability (Hidden Ability)
Tatsugiri’s design and typing give it a distinctive role in battles, making it a versatile Pokémon for various strategies.
When Does Tatsugiri Evolve?
Unlike many Pokémon, Tatsugiri does not evolve into another Pokémon through traditional means such as leveling up or using an Evolutionary Stone. Instead, Tatsugiri evolves based on a specific battle scenario in the game.
Evolution Mechanism: Dondozo
Tatsugiri evolves into Dondozo under specific battle conditions. This unique evolution is triggered during Double Battles, a type of battle where two Pokémon from each trainer face off simultaneously.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the evolution process:
- Participate in a Double Battle: Tatsugiri must be in a Double Battle alongside Dondozo to trigger its evolution. This is a unique feature of Tatsugiri’s evolution compared to most Pokémon that evolve through level or item-based methods.
- Dondozo Uses Order Up: During the battle, Tatsugiri will only evolve if Dondozo uses the move Order Up. This move is a Dragon-type move that can be learned by Dondozo.
- Tatsugiri’s Abilities: Tatsugiri must have the ability Commander to evolve during the battle. When Tatsugiri is in the same battle as Dondozo and Dondozo uses Order Up, Tatsugiri will automatically evolve into a more powerful form.
- Battle Conditions: Ensure that both Tatsugiri and Dondozo are on the field and that Order Up is used. If these conditions are met, Tatsugiri will evolve into Dondozo.
Summary of Evolution Process
| Condition | Requirement |
| Battle Type | Double Battle |
| Partner Pokémon | Dondozo |
| Dondozo’s Move | Order Up |
| Tatsugiri’s Ability | Commander |
Understanding these conditions will help you successfully evolve Tatsugiri into Dondozo.
How to Prepare for Tatsugiri’s Evolution
To ensure a smooth evolution process for Tatsugiri, follow these preparation tips:
Level Up Tatsugiri and Dondozo
Make sure both Tatsugiri and Dondozo are at a sufficient level. Dondozo must know the move Order Up, so it’s important to level up Dondozo to learn this move.
- Dondozo: Ensure that Dondozo knows Order Up. You can teach this move to Dondozo through leveling up or using a TM.
- Tatsugiri: Keep Tatsugiri in your party and make sure it is ready for the Double Battle scenario.
Check Abilities
Ensure Tatsugiri has the Commander ability to trigger the evolution during the battle.
- Tatsugiri’s Ability: Tatsugiri must have Commander for the evolution to occur. You may need to check Tatsugiri’s abilities and use ability-changing items if necessary.
Prepare for the Battle
- Double Battle Setup: Prepare for a Double Battle scenario where you will use Tatsugiri and Dondozo together.
- Move Preparation: Ensure that Dondozo has Order Up in its move set for the evolution to take place.
Choose the Right Battle Environment
Select a battle environment where you can face off against trainers or wild Pokémon in a Double Battle format. Many areas in the game offer Double Battles, or you can participate in trainer battles that have Double Battle formats.
Why Tatsugiri’s Evolution is Unique
Tatsugiri’s evolution process is distinct from the traditional evolution methods used for other Pokémon. Here’s why:
Double Battle Requirement
Most Pokémon evolve through leveling up, using items, or meeting specific conditions. Tatsugiri’s evolution requires a specific battle scenario involving a partner Pokémon, making it a unique feature in Pokémon games.
Evolution Triggered by a Move
Tatsugiri evolves based on Dondozo’s use of the move Order Up rather than Tatsugiri learning a new move or leveling up. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy to the evolution process.
Strategic Battle Play
To evolve Tatsugiri, you need to set up a strategic Double Battle where Dondozo uses Order Up. This requires a different approach compared to the standard evolution methods, emphasizing teamwork and strategy.
Tips for Using Tatsugiri and Dondozo in Battles
Tatsugiri and Dondozo have unique abilities and moves that make them valuable assets in battle. Here are some tips for maximizing their effectiveness:
Combining Tatsugiri and Dondozo’s Abilities
The combination of Tatsugiri and Dondozo’s abilities creates powerful synergies.
- Storm Drain: Dondozo’s ability, Storm Drain, draws in Water-type moves to boost its Special Attack. Tatsugiri’s Water-type moves can be used to activate this ability and boost Dondozo’s stats.
- Commander Ability: Tatsugiri’s Commander ability allows it to evolve during battle, making it a strategic choice for teams focusing on Double Battles.
Optimal Move Sets
Equip Tatsugiri and Dondozo with moves that complement their abilities and enhance their battle effectiveness.
- Tatsugiri: Consider moves like Dragon Pulse, Muddy Water, and Draco Meteor for a balanced move set.
- Dondozo: In addition to Order Up, moves like Body Slam, Aqua Jet, and Earthquake can be effective.
Battle Strategies
Develop strategies that utilize Tatsugiri and Dondozo’s strengths.
- Order Up and Commander: Use Order Up from Dondozo to trigger Tatsugiri’s evolution. Follow up with powerful Dragon and Water-type moves to take down opponents.
- Storm Drain Synergy: Use Tatsugiri’s Water-type moves to activate Dondozo’s Storm Drain ability and boost its Special Attack.
Where to Find Tatsugiri and Dondozo
In Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Tatsugiri and Dondozo can be found in specific locations:
Tatsugiri
- Location: Tatsugiri can be found in the waters of the Paldea region.
- Habitat: Look for Tatsugiri in areas with abundant water, such as lakes and rivers.
Dondozo
- Location: You can catch Dondozo in the same waters where Tatsugiri is found.
- Habitat: Dondozo is found in similar aquatic environments.
Evolution Mechanics and Game Mechanics
Understanding Pokémon game mechanics can help you navigate Tatsugiri’s evolution more effectively. Here’s a breakdown of how the evolution system works:
Evolution Systems in Pokémon
Different Pokémon evolve through various methods including:
- Leveling Up: Pokémon evolve when they reach a certain level.
- Using Items: Some Pokémon evolve when exposed to specific Evolutionary Stones or items.
- Trading: Certain Pokémon evolve when traded between players.
- Happiness: Some Pokémon evolve based on their happiness level.
- Battle Conditions: Unique scenarios like Tatsugiri’s evolution require specific battle conditions.
Tatsugiri’s Evolution as a Case Study
Tatsugiri’s evolution mechanism represents an innovative approach to Pokémon evolution, focusing on battle dynamics rather than traditional methods.
- Double Battles: Emphasizes the strategic importance of Double Battles.
- Move-Based Evolution: Highlights how Pokémon can evolve through the use of specific moves in battle.
Conclusion
Tatsugiri is a fascinating Pokémon with a unique evolution process that sets it apart from many other creatures in the Pokémon universe. Understanding when and how Tatsugiri evolves into Dondozo can greatly enhance your Pokémon team’s effectiveness and your overall gameplay experience.
By participating in Double Battles, ensuring Dondozo knows the move Order Up, and utilizing Tatsugiri’s Commander ability, you can successfully evolve Tatsugiri and unlock new strategic possibilities for your team.
