(what level does magikarp evolve) Magikarp has earned its reputation as one of the weakest Pokémon in the franchise, but those who are patient enough to nurture this humble Water-type will be rewarded with one of the most fearsome creatures in all of Pokémon—Gyarados. If you’re wondering at what level Magikarp evolves and how to make it happen in various Pokémon games, you’ve come to the right place.
What Level Does Magikarp Evolve?
The answer is simple—Magikarp evolves into Gyarados at level 20. Once your Magikarp gains enough experience points (EXP) to hit this level, it will automatically attempt to evolve into Gyarados, a Water/Flying-type Pokémon with a majorly powerful Attack stat.
This evolution doesn’t require any fancy items or methods—it’s all about leveling up through battles or experience-sharing mechanics. If you’re raising a Magikarp, level 20 is the magic number you’re aiming for!
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Can a Level 21 Magikarp Still Evolve?
Yes, absolutely! If your Magikarp is already at level 21 or higher, it can still evolve into Gyarados. It simply needs to gain another level—no need to worry about missing your chance. The evolution process remains straightforward regardless of Magikarp’s level. Just earn one more level, whether through battle, Rare Candy, or experience-sharing, and watch the transformation unfold.
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What If I Catch a Magikarp at Level 20?
If you’re lucky enough to catch a Magikarp at level 20, the good news is that it only requires one EXP point to push it into its evolution. Simply put it into battle and have it participate in defeating an opposing Pokémon. Afterward, you’ll finally meet your ferocious sea serpent, Gyarados.
On another note, if you prefer skipping the grind altogether, you can use an item like a Rare Candy to instantly level it up.
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Can You Evolve Magikarp Without Candy?
Absolutely! While Rare Candy is a convenient item to fast-track a level-up, it’s not strictly necessary for evolving Magikarp. You can simply involve Magikarp in battles to gain EXP or add it to your party with an experience-sharing mechanic active in the game. Over time, these methods will give it enough EXP to evolve naturally.
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What Level Does Magikarp Evolve in Different Pokémon Games?
Magikarp evolving at level 20 is consistent throughout most Pokémon games, but here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular titles:
Magikarp Evolution in Fire Red
Magikarp evolves at level 20 in Pokémon Fire Red, just like in other games. This Gen III classic doesn’t deviate from the standard evolutionary process. Battle Magikarp in the wild or at the Cerulean City Pokémon Center to start raising it.
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Magikarp Evolution in Pokémon Brick Bronze
For Pokémon Brick Bronze, the now-retired Roblox game, the story is no different—Magikarp reaches its evolution glory at level 20. You’ll be able to unlock Gyarados’ full potential even in this fan-favorite adventure.
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Magikarp Evolution in Pokémon Emerald
Like Fire Red, Pokémon Emerald maintains Magikarp’s evolution level at the standard 20. Take advantage of Hoenn routes to train your Magikarp; the rich water-bound environment is perfect for its growth.
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Magikarp Evolution in Pokémon Violet and Scarlet
The latest installments, Pokémon Violet and Scarlet, stick to tradition. Magikarp evolves at—you guessed it—level 20. These games allow for modern mechanics like EXP Candy and the EXP Share, which make leveling up quicker than before.
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Magikarp Evolution in Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver
For players adventuring through Johto in HeartGold and SoulSilver, Magikarp evolution follows the same rulebook—it evolves at level 20. You can find Magikarp in numerous fishing spots around the Johto region.
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Magikarp Evolution in Pokémon Platinum
Magikarp follows the same evolution rule in the Sinnoh region, which Platinum introduces. Using Gyarados in the climbing levels of this region can be a great strategy when preparing for battle against Gym Leaders and exploring challenging routes.
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How to Evolve Magikarp Faster
If patience isn’t your thing, here are some tips to evolve your Magikarp faster across all games:
- Battle Wild Pokémon – Even if Magikarp doesn’t actively attack, it can gain EXP by being swapped into battle before another Pokémon finishes the fight.
- Use Rare or EXP Candy – These items give instant EXP boosts, making leveling up a breeze.
- Enable EXP Share – When active, your party Pokémon, including Magikarp, share the EXP earned. This is particularly helpful if you don’t want to train Magikarp directly in battles.
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Why Evolving Magikarp is Worth the Effort
Gyarados is one of the most iconic Pokémon for good reason. With its impressive stats and powerful moves like Waterfall, Dragon Dance, and the game-changing Hydro Pump, it’s a force to be reckoned with in battles. Additionally, its secondary Flying type provides unique advantages against certain opponents.
Trainers often catch or raise Magikarp precisely because of the payoff—this modest Water-type transforms into a Pokémon with exceptional fighting power, solidifying its place in many competitive teams.
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Key Takeaways
- Magikarp evolves into Gyarados at level 20, and this rule applies consistently across most Pokémon games.
- You can level up Magikarp through battles, EXP Share, or Rare Candy.
- A level 21+ Magikarp can still evolve; it just needs to gain another level.
Whether you’re playing Pokémon Violet, Fire Red, Platinum, or Emerald, setting your sights on a Gyarados is a solid move. With a bit of patience (or some clever EXP farming), you’ll have one of the strongest Water-type Pokémon by your side.
Start raising your Magikarp today and experience the thrill of unleashing Gyarados in your next epic battle!