How To Evolve Applin Into Hydrapple In Pokemon Scarlet and Violet
The introduction of new evolutionary lines in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet expanded the potential of Applin, a Grass and Dragon-type creature from Generation VIII. Trainers looking to add the powerful multi-headed Hydrapple to their party must navigate a two-stage evolution process introduced across the DLC expansions. Understanding the exact steps required ensures you can seamlessly upgrade your team during your journey through the Blueberry Academy.
First Step: Catching Applin and Evolving into Dipplin
To begin the journey toward Hydrapple, players must first secure an Applin within the Paldea region or early DLC areas. Once caught, you need to evolve Applin into its intermediate form, Dipplin, using a special item called the Syrupy Apple. This item can be purchased for 500 Pokédollars at a small shop located in the Mossfell Confluence area of Kitakami.
Applying the Syrupy Apple from your inventory directly to Applin triggers an immediate transformation into Dipplin. This stage is necessary because Applin cannot evolve directly into Hydrapple without passing through this form. Ensuring you have a Dipplin ready in your party sets the stage for the final move-based evolution.
Unlocking TM 226 Dragon Cheer in The Indigo Disk
Evolving Dipplin into Hydrapple requires a specific move named Dragon Cheer, which cannot be learned through standard level progression. To acquire TM 226 Dragon Cheer, trainers must progress through the story of The Indigo Disk DLC and challenge the Blueberry League Elite Four. You must head to the Polar Biome and defeat Drayton, the Dragon-type specialist.
After defeating Drayton in battle, he rewards you with TM 226 Dragon Cheer and unlocks its recipe at the TM Machine in the Central Plaza. Crafting extra copies of this TM requires League Points along with materials dropped by wild Tatsugiri, Lapras, and Applin. Having this TM ready allows you to teach the crucial move to Dipplin at any point.
Final Stage: Teaching Dragon Cheer and Leveling Up
Once you possess TM 226, open your inventory and teach Dragon Cheer to your Dipplin. The evolution condition activates as soon as Dipplin gains a single level while having Dragon Cheer in its active moveset. You can trigger this level-up through regular battle experience or by using an EXP Candy or Rare Candy.
Upon leveling up, Dipplin transforms into Hydrapple, gaining boosted statistics and its signature move Fickle Beam. This impressive Grass and Dragon-type Pokémon serves as an exceptional defensive and offensive pivot for competitive and casual teams alike. Following these precise steps guarantees a smooth addition to your Blueberry Academy Pokedex roster.