If you are playing Pokémon Legends: Arceus, you may have noticed that some Pokémon evolve in very different ways compared to older titles. One of the most interesting examples is Stantler. Instead of evolving through a simple level-up or stone, Stantler requires a specific move-based condition to evolve into Wyrdeer.
In this game, Stantler evolves into Wyrdeer, a powerful Normal and Psychic-type Pokémon. Unlike traditional evolution methods, this one is tied to mastering and repeatedly using a specific move.
You cannot evolve Stantler just by leveling it up. Instead, the evolution depends on using a move called Psyshield Bash in Agile Style multiple times. This adds a layer of strategy and forces players to actually use their Pokémon in battle rather than relying only on experience points.
Step 1: Get a Stantler
First, you need to catch a Stantler. These Pokémon are commonly found in the Obsidian Fieldlands, especially in areas like Deertrack Heights. They are not rare, so you should be able to find one without too much effort.
When catching one, it is a good idea to check its level and move set. A higher-level Stantler may already have access to the required move, saving you time later.
Step 2: Learn Psyshield Bash
The key to evolving Stantler is the move Psyshield Bash. Most Stantler will learn this move naturally as they level up, usually around the mid-level range.
If your Stantler does not know the move yet, you have two options:
- Level it up until it learns Psyshield Bash naturally
- Visit the move tutor in Jubilife Village to teach it the move manually
Using the move tutor is often faster, especially if you want to evolve Stantler quickly.
Step 3: Master Psyshield Bash
Learning the move is not enough. You must also master it. In the game, mastering a move allows you to use it in different styles, such as Agile Style and Strong Style.
To master Psyshield Bash, you can:
- Use the move repeatedly in battles
- Spend money at the move tutor to master it instantly
Once the move is mastered, you unlock the ability to use it in Agile Style, which is essential for evolution.
Step 4: Use Psyshield Bash in Agile Style
Now comes the most important part. You must use Psyshield Bash in Agile Style at least 20 times in battle.
This is a strict requirement. Regular use of the move does not count. It must specifically be:
- Psyshield Bash
- Used in Agile Style
- Successfully executed in battle
To make this easier:
- Fight weaker wild Pokémon so battles last longer
- Use Agile Style repeatedly instead of ending battles quickly
- Carry items like potions to keep Stantler healthy
Tracking the number of times can be tricky since the game does not show a counter. It is best to estimate and slightly exceed 20 uses to be safe.
Step 5: Trigger the Evolution
After using Psyshield Bash in Agile Style enough times, your Stantler will be ready to evolve. Unlike traditional games, evolution does not happen automatically after battle.
Instead, you need to:
- Open your satchel
- Select Stantler
- Choose the option to evolve
Once you do this, Stantler will evolve into Wyrdeer.
Why Wyrdeer Is Worth It
Wyrdeer is not just a simple upgrade. It offers strong stats and a unique Normal and Psychic typing, making it useful in many battles. It also plays an important role in exploration, as it becomes one of the rideable Pokémon used to travel across the Hisui region quickly.
This makes evolving Stantler both a combat and exploration upgrade, giving you real value for the effort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many players struggle with this evolution because of small misunderstandings. Here are some common mistakes:
- Using Psyshield Bash without Agile Style
- Forgetting to master the move first
- Not using the move enough times
- Expecting automatic evolution after battle
Avoiding these mistakes will save you a lot of time and frustration.
