Evolving Nosepass in Pokemon Go requires understanding both game mechanics and real-world geography, because this Rock-type Pokemon has a unique evolution method tied to magnetic fields. By following the right steps, you can reliably trigger the evolution into Probopass and add a strong defensive Rock and Steel Pokemon to your team.
This guide breaks down how to evolve Nosepass in Pokemon Go, covering everything from buddy and trade evolution to regional variants and event forms. Use the details below to plan your progress and avoid common mistakes.
| Nosepass Evolution Target | Method | Key Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Probopass | Buddy Evolution | Walk 20 km with Nosepass as your buddy | Standard evolution for most players |
| Probopass | Trade Evolution | Trade Nosepass while buddy is set to Nosepass and has at least 20 km walked | Bonus Stardust applies if buddy criteria met |
| Regional Variant: Galarian Nosepass | Buddy Evolution | Walk 20 km with Galarian Nosepass as your buddy | Evolves into Galarian Probopass with Steel/Psychic typing |
| Event Form Nosepass | Special conditions | Check event details for unique methods | May differ from standard Probopass evolution |
Set Nosepass as Your Buddy and Walk the Distance
Buddy Pokemon Requirements
To evolve Nosepass into Probopass through the buddy method, you must first set Nosepass as your active buddy in the app. The game tracks total distance walked with that specific buddy, so every step counts toward the evolution goal.
Distance Tracking Tips
Nosepass requires 20 km of walking with it as your buddy before the evolution option becomes available. Use in-game tracking to monitor progress and complete routes that maximize steps while avoiding battery-heavy background usage.
Use Trading to Trigger Faster Evolution
How Trade Evolution Works
If you have at least 20 km recorded with Nosepass as your buddy, trading it to another player will immediately trigger evolution into Probopass. This method is useful when you want to evolve quickly or need to optimize your buddy records.
Stardust Bonuses
Completing the 20 km buddy walk before trading rewards both players with Stardust upon evolution. Plan trades with friends or community members who can meet the distance requirement so both sides benefit from the bonus.
Understand Regional Variants and Their Evolution
Galarian Nosepass Behavior
In certain regions, you may encounter Galarian Nosepass, which evolves into Galarian Probopass. The evolution process also requires 20 km walked with it as your buddy, but the resulting form has a different typing and appearance.
Type and Strategy Differences
Galarian Probopass gains Psychic coverage alongside its Steel and Rock defenses, making it valuable for specific gym battles and raid compositions. Check regional availability and plan accordingly if you aim to collect both forms.
Account for Special Events and Research Tasks
Event-Driven Changes
During seasonal events or Community Days, Niantic may alter evolution requirements or offer shortcuts for Nosepass and Probopass. Always check the current event details before assuming standard mechanics apply.
Research and Field Tasks
Some Field Quests and Special Research tasks may reward items or encounters that influence how you evolve Nosepass. Completing these activities can provide extra Stardust, items, or even guaranteed evolved forms under special conditions.
Key Takeaways for Evolving Nosepass Efficiently
- Always set Nosepass as your active buddy and monitor the distance counter regularly.
- Complete the full 20 km walk before trading to maximize Stardust rewards for both players.
- Check for regional variants like Galarian Nosepass if you seek different typing and battle roles.
- Stay updated on events, as they can temporarily change evolution requirements or provide bonuses.
- Use field research and special encounters to supplement your progression and reduce grind time.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I evolve Nosepass without walking 20 km as its buddy?
No, the standard evolution into Probopass requires 20 km walked with Nosepass as your active buddy, or the same distance completed before a trade, except in special event cases clearly announced by Niantic.
Does trading a Nosepass that has not walked 20 km still cause evolution?
No, trading will not trigger evolution unless the 20 km buddy condition is met on at least one player’s account, ensuring that both effort and planning are rewarded with Stardust bonuses.
Is Galarian Nosepass harder to evolve than regular Nosepass?
The evolution process for Galarian Nosepass is identical in terms of distance, but it is regionally locked or rarer in appearance, making acquisition more challenging while the 20 km requirement stays the same.
Can I reset my buddy distance with Nosepass to farm Stardust bonuses?
You can change your active buddy after meeting the 20 km requirement to farm Stardust from repeated trades, but you will need to walk the distance again with any new buddy to trigger future evolutions.