How to Evolve Inkay: Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Obtain Malamar

How to evolve Inkay is one of the most unique and memorable evolution methods in the entire Pokémon franchise. Introduced in Generation VI in 2013, Inkay—the Revolving Pokémon—requires players to level it up to 30 while holding the game system upside down. This quirky mechanic has carried over across every major Pokémon title since its debut, making how to evolve Inkay a fun, sometimes frustrating challenge that has become a fan favorite for its clever design and the Pokémon’s own upside-down nature.

Once evolved, Inkay turns into Malamar, a powerful Dark/Psychic-type squid-like creature nicknamed the Overturning Pokémon. Malamar boasts strong stats, versatile moves, and incredible competitive potential, making how to evolve Inkay essential for building teams in games like Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Pokémon GO, and the latest Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Whether you are a casual trainer completing the Pokédex, a competitive battler chasing Tera Raid glory, or a fan reliving the classic 3DS/ Switch evolution trick, mastering how to evolve Inkay opens up one of the franchise’s most iconic Dark-type options.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about how to evolve Inkay, from catching the pre-evolution in every major game to troubleshooting common issues, competitive strategies, and tips for success. You will also learn why Malamar makes an excellent addition to any team and how this evolution ties into the broader Pokémon universe. By the end, you will confidently navigate how to evolve Inkay in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Pokémon GO, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and beyond.

Understanding Inkay: The Revolving Pokémon

Inkay is a small, squid-like Dark/Psychic-type Pokémon with a distinctive upside-down design that perfectly matches its evolution requirement. Standing at just 1’04” tall and weighing 3.3 lbs, Inkay is known for its bioluminescent spots that flash and emit psychic waves, disorienting opponents. Its Pokédex entry reveals it lives in the depths of coastal waters, instinctively reacting to light and sound by floating upside down to improve blood flow and boost its psychic abilities.

In battle, Inkay’s Contrary Ability reverses stat drops into boosts, making moves like Superpower surprisingly powerful pre-evolution. Its base stats are modest—53 HP, 54 Attack, 53 Defense, 37 Special Attack, 46 Special Defense, and 45 Speed—but the evolution into Malamar dramatically improves its kit. Malamar gains access to devastating moves such as Superpower, Psychic Fangs, and Dark Pulse, turning it into a balanced sweeper with strong physical and special coverage.

The name “Inkay” comes from its squid appearance and the Japanese term for cuttlefish, while Malamar’s name combines “mal” (evil) and “amar” (from an older term for octopus). This pair represents one of the few Pokémon capable of learning Topsy-Turvy, a move that flips stat changes, making how to evolve Inkay even more thematic. Because Malamar cannot be obtained through other methods like trading in some titles, mastering how to evolve Inkay is the only reliable way to add it to your roster.

Inkay Evolution Mechanics: Why the Upside-Down Method?

The core of how to evolve Inkay is simple yet ingenious: Inkay evolves at level 30, but the process only triggers when the game system is held upside down. This mechanic was first implemented on the Nintendo 3DS to utilize its built-in gyroscope, and it has remained consistent across the Switch family and Pokémon GO. The upside-down pose ties directly to Inkay’s lore—the Pokémon prefers floating inverted to optimize its physiology.

In mainline games, the requirement is strict. You must level Inkay while the system is inverted, and no other controllers can be connected. In Pokémon GO, the process uses 50 Inkay candies and the same upside-down screen rotation. This consistency across platforms has made how to evolve Inkay a signature feature that has amused fans for over a decade.

The evolution is irreversible in most cases, so players must plan carefully. Some titles allow leveling through battles or Rare Candy, but the system inversion is non-negotiable. Understanding these mechanics is the first step in successfully completing how to evolve Inkay.

How to Evolve Inkay in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet (The Indigo Disk DLC)

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet introduced Inkay as a native of the Indigo Disk DLC’s Blueberry Academy Terrarium. In the Coastal Biome, you can find Inkay freely floating above water or on beaches. Wild Inkay are already level 50+, making how to evolve Inkay straightforward once you catch one.

Step-by-Step Guide to Evolve Inkay in Scarlet and Violet:

1. Catch an Inkay in the Coastal Biome of the Terrarium.
2. Add Inkay to your party.
3. Level Inkay to 30+ (use battles or Rare Candy; EXP Candy works in some cases).
4. Ensure your Nintendo Switch is in handheld mode with only Joy-Cons attached (no Switch Pro Controllers or third-party controllers connected).
5. Flip the Switch upside down and keep it level.
6. Open the party menu and select Inkay. The evolution option should now appear.
7. Confirm evolution while the Switch remains upside down.

If the option does not appear, wait a few seconds for the game to register the orientation change. Some players report needing to level Inkay in actual battles rather than just EXP Candy for the final level-up, though both methods can work if the console is inverted. Once complete, Malamar becomes available for raids, breeding, or competitive play.

This method makes how to evolve Inkay feel like a special reward after grinding the Indigo Disk. The Coastal Biome is rich with Inkay, so you will not struggle to find one.

How to Evolve Inkay in Pokémon GO

In Pokémon GO, how to evolve Inkay follows the same upside-down principle but uses candies instead of leveling. Inkay spawns in the wild (especially during events), as Tier 1 Raid bosses, or from 12 km eggs. Shiny Inkay is available and evolves into Shiny Malamar.

Step-by-Step Guide to Evolve Inkay in Pokémon GO:

1. Collect 50 Inkay candies (by catching wild Inkay, using them as your Buddy, or completing Field Research).
2. Select your Inkay in your roster.
3. Turn your phone or device upside down (gyroscope must be enabled).
4. The evolution button should turn green—tap it to evolve.
5. Once evolved, use Malamar in raids, Gym Battles, or Great League.

This method is faster than many other evolutions because only 50 candies are needed. Outbreaks of Inkay can make candy collection quicker. The upside-down screen rotation is mandatory on Android and iOS devices, just as on consoles. Pokémon GO players often combine how to evolve Inkay with Buddy candies for extra rewards, making it an efficient way to add Malamar to your collection.

How to Evolve Inkay in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

Pokémon Legends: Z-A brings Inkay back to Lumiose City’s Wild Zone 11 and the sewers, where it appears at level 30 or above naturally. This title keeps the classic method but adds modern conveniences.

Step-by-Step Guide to Evolve Inkay in Pokémon Legends: Z-A:

1. Reach Wild Zone 11 (Rank E or higher) and catch an Inkay in the water or sewers.
2. Add Inkay to your party (it is already level 30+).
3. Put your Nintendo Switch (or Switch 2) in handheld mode with Joy-Cons attached and no other controllers connected.
4. Flip the console upside down.
5. Open the menu (X button) and select Inkay. The Evolve option appears at the top of the list.
6. Confirm while keeping the Switch inverted.

On Switch 2, you can also detach and reattach Joy-Cons upside down for an alternative trigger. Once evolved, Malamar can be used to explore Lumiose City and participate in Wild Zone battles. This version of how to evolve Inkay feels fresh yet true to the original 3DS experience.

How to Evolve Inkay in Older Games (Sword & Shield and Earlier)

Even in mainline games like Pokémon Sword and Shield, how to evolve Inkay remains unchanged. Inkay appears in certain areas, and the upside-down method works identically on the Switch.

General Steps for Sword & Shield or Similar Titles:

1. Level Inkay to 30+ (via battles or candy).
2. Enter handheld mode.
3. Flip the Switch upside down.
4. Select Inkay in the party menu.
5. Choose Evolve before flipping back.

This method has been consistent since the 3DS era, ensuring that how to evolve Inkay feels like a true franchise tradition.

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Evolving Inkay

Many players struggle with how to evolve Inkay due to technical glitches. Common problems include:

• The evolution option not appearing: Ensure the Switch is perfectly level and inverted, not tilted. Restart the game or save before trying again.
• Evolution fails after flipping: Disconnect all extra controllers and make sure Joy-Cons are the official first-party ones.
• In Pokémon GO: Gyroscope issues—turn it off in settings or restart the app.
• Inkay not leveling correctly: Some titles require actual battles for the final level-up.

If these steps fail, try leveling Inkay while the system is inverted from the start, or use a table to hold the console steady. Clearing the cache on Switch or checking game updates can also help. With patience, mastering how to evolve Inkay becomes second nature.

Competitive Uses of Malamar After Evolving Inkay

Once you complete how to evolve Inkay, Malamar becomes a staple in many competitive formats. Its high Attack (177) and balanced Defense (165) make it excellent for physical sets. Moves like Superpower, Psychic Fangs, and Dark Pulse provide coverage against common threats.

In Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Malamar shines in VGC Doubles or Singles with items like Life Orb or Choice Band. Its Contrary ability turns dropped stats into boosts, creating snowballing potential. In Pokémon GO, Malamar excels in Great and Ultra League due to its solid bulk and move pool.

Malamar’s role as a tanky special attacker or physical wall makes it valuable for mid-tier teams. Whether you use it in raids or ranked battles, evolving Inkay gives you a unique Dark-type that most players cannot easily obtain otherwise.

Tips for Success When Completing How to Evolve Inkay

• Catch Inkay in water biomes for easier encounters.
• Use Rare Candy or battles strategically for the final level-up.
• Save before flipping the console to avoid lost progress.
• If using EXP Candy, perform the level-up while inverted.
• For competitive teams, prioritize Malamar in lower tiers where its stats shine.

These tips ensure smooth how to evolve Inkay every time.

Why Malamar is Worth Evolving Inkay For

Malamar is more than just a strong Pokémon—it is a fan-favorite design with a menacing presence. Its Psychic/Fang moves and high Attack make it a terror in raids and competitive play. The fact that it cannot be caught in the wild in many games makes evolving Inkay the primary (and only) way to obtain it in some titles. Completing this evolution adds depth to your team and honors one of the franchise’s most clever mechanics.

FAQs 

What is the exact level for evolving Inkay?

Inkay evolves at level 30, but the final level-up must occur while the game system is held upside down.

Does Inkay evolve in all Pokémon games?

Yes, the method is consistent in mainline titles on 3DS, Switch, and Pokémon GO, though availability varies by region and game.

Can I evolve Inkay using only candy?

In Pokémon GO yes with 50 candies, but in mainline games the level-up itself triggers the process when inverted.

Is Malamar obtainable in the wild?

No, Malamar is exclusively obtained by evolving Inkay in most games; it cannot be caught directly.

What if the evolution option does not appear?

Ensure the console is perfectly inverted, handheld mode is active, and no extra controllers are connected. Restart the game if needed.

Can I evolve Inkay in Pokémon Legends: Z-A?

Yes, catch Inkay in Wild Zone 11 at level 30 and flip the Switch upside down in handheld mode.

Is there a Mega Evolution for Malamar?

Yes, players can obtain the Malamarite stone to Mega Evolve Malamar after evolving Inkay.

How many Inkay candies are needed in Pokémon GO?

Exactly 50 Inkay candies to trigger evolution while turning the phone upside down.

Can I use Rare Candy to evolve Inkay?

Yes, but the level-up must still happen while the system is inverted, and some titles require battle leveling for the final step.

Why is evolving Inkay unique compared to other Pokémon?

No other Pokémon requires holding the system upside down, making how to evolve Inkay one of the most recognizable and fun mechanics in the series.

Conclusion

Mastering how to evolve Inkay is a rewarding journey that highlights the creativity behind Pokémon design. From the Coastal Biome of the Indigo Disk to Wild Zone 11 in Legends: Z-A and the candy system in Pokémon GO, the upside-down method remains a constant, fun challenge that has defined this evolution since Generation VI. Whether you are a new trainer catching your first Inkay or a veteran optimizing Malamar for ranked battles, following the steps above will get you the Overturning Pokémon in no time.

Inkay’s revolving nature perfectly mirrors its evolution requirement, turning a simple level-up into an interactive experience that every Pokémon fan should experience. Once you evolve Inkay into Malamar, you gain a powerful, versatile Dark-type that stands out in any team. Take your Nintendo Switch or phone in hand, flip it upside down, and embark on this classic adventure today. The world of Pokémon awaits your next Malamar victory!