On your quest to catch ’em all, you’re going to need to catch some particularly rare Pokemon. Two that definitely fall into this category are Riolu and Lucario. In this Pokemon Sword and Shield guide, we’ll talk through how to get Riolu, as well as how to evolve it into Lucario.

Getting Riolu in Pokemon Sword and Shield

Riolu can be caught in both Pokemon Sword and Shield by heading to the Giant’s Cap in the east of the north part of the Wild Area. Unfortunately, you’re going to have to hope for a snowstorm, as that’s the only weather this little tyke will show up in.

Even if you’re in Giant’s Cap will a snowstorm blowing you off your feet, Riolu only has a 5% spawn rate. This is the only location Riolu can be found in Pokemon Sword and Shield right now, so best get ready to do some hunting.

Evolving Riolu Into Lucario

To evolve Riolu, you need to make it reach maximum happiness during the daytime. Then, simply get it to level up once, and it’ll evolve into Lucario.

To make Riolu reach maximum happiness, you’ll want to try out a variety of different things. For example, simply keeping your Pokemon in your party and battling with it will increase happiness on their own.

Giving your Pokemon curry or berries can also help increase happiness, as can playing with in Pokemon Camp. Finally, if you get the Soothe Bell and give it to Riolu, this will help to make it the happiest Pokemon it can possibly be.

Time needed: 20 minutes

Evolving Riolu Into Lucario in Pokemon Sword & Shield

Catch a Riolu in Giant’s Cap During a Snowstorm
Make Riolu Reach Max Happiness
This can be done with the Soothe Bell, keeping it in your party and battling with it. You can also play with it in your camp, and feed it berries and curry.
Level Riolu Up Once at Max Happiness to Evolve it Into Lucario

That’s everything you need to know on how to get Riolu and evolve it into Lucario in Pokemon Sword and Shield. Our guide wiki has plenty more tips and tricks, or you can search for Twinfinite. Alternatively, you can search more of our guides below.

About the author

Chris Jecks

Chris is the Managing Editor of Twinfinite. Chris has been with the site and covering the games media industry for eight years. He typically covers new releases, FIFA, Fortnite and any good shooters for the site, and loves nothing more than a good Pro Clubs session with the lads. Chris has a History degree from the University of Central Lancashire. He spends his days eagerly awaiting the release of BioShock 4.