# How to Get Espeon in Pokémon GO: A Comprehensive Guide
Espeon, the Sun Pokémon, is a beloved Psychic-type evolution of Eevee, known for its elegant design and powerful special attack. In Pokémon GO, obtaining this elusive creature involves a specific set of conditions and a bit of strategic planning. Evolving Eevee into Espeon requires not only a sufficient amount of Candy but also the correct method to influence its evolution. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can add this radiant Pokémon to your collection.
Espeon’s evolution is tied to Eevee’s happiness or “buddy” level, alongside the time of day within the game. Unlike some other Pokémon evolutions that are purely random or candy-dependent, Espeon’s requires a bit more player interaction and attention to the in-game environment. Understanding these nuances is key to successfully evolving your Eevee into Espeon.
| Category | Information |
| :——————– | :————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————– |
| **Pokémon Name** | Espeon |
| **Type** | Psychic |
| **Evolution Method** | Evolve Eevee when it is your Buddy Pokémon, with at least 70 friendship, and during the daytime in the game. **Alternatively**, use the “Kira” name trick once per account. |
| **Base Stats** | Attack: 261, Defense: 170, Stamina: 130 |
| **Max CP** | 3,000 |
| **Key Moves** | **Fast Move:** Confusion, Zen Headbutt
**Charge Move:** Psychic, Future Sight, Dazzling Gleam |
| **Weaknesses** | Bug, Ghost, Dark |
| **Resistances** | Fighting, Psychic |
| **Reference Website** | [https://pokemongo.fandom.com/wiki/Espeon](https://pokemongo.fandom.com/wiki/Espeon) |
## The Eevee Evolution Mechanic in Pokémon GO
Eevee is unique in Pokémon GO for its multi-branched evolution possibilities. While some evolutions, like Vaporeon, Jolteon, and Flareon, are achieved through random candy expenditure, Espeon and its Dark-type counterpart, Umbreon, have specific requirements. Niantic, the developer of Pokémon GO, introduced these methods to add an extra layer of depth to the game.
### Acquiring an Eevee
Before you can evolve an Eevee, you first need to catch one. Eevees can be found in various environments, often in grasslands or urban areas. They also frequently appear during certain in-game events or can be hatched from eggs. Keep an eye out for them on your Pokémon GO map, and utilize incense or lures if you’re having trouble finding one.
### The Buddy System and Friendship
The primary method for obtaining an Espeon involves the Buddy System. To evolve Eevee into Espeon, you must first set Eevee as your Buddy Pokémon. Then, you need to walk with it for a total of 10 kilometers, earning at least two Eevee candies along the way. Crucially, Eevee must still be your Buddy Pokémon when you initiate the evolution, and your friendship level with it needs to be at least “Good” (which translates to about 70 friendship points).
The friendship level can be increased by:
* Feeding Eevee berries.
* Playing with Eevee.
* Battling with Eevee as your buddy.
* Visiting PokéStops with Eevee as your buddy.
Once you have walked the required distance and ensured Eevee has sufficient friendship, you must evolve it during the in-game daytime. The in-game clock usually reflects the real-world time, so pay attention to whether it appears to be day or night in your Pokémon GO app.
### The “Kira” Name Trick
For a guaranteed evolution to Espeon (or Umbreon), Pokémon GO offers a one-time “name trick.” To evolve Eevee into Espeon using this method, you must nickname your Eevee “Kira” *before* you press the evolution button. This trick works only once per Eevee evolution type across your entire account. If you have already used the “Kira” trick for Espeon, you will need to use the buddy system method.
Espeon’s design is inspired by the mythological cat-like creatures of ancient Egypt, particularly the concept of a feline deity. Its Psychic typing and elegant appearance are a clear nod to these mystical origins.
## Espeon in Battle
Once you’ve successfully evolved your Espeon, you’ll want to know how to best utilize it in battles. Espeon boasts a high Special Attack stat, making it a potent offensive threat, particularly against Fighting and Poison-type Pokémon.
### Recommended Movesets
* **Offensive:** Confusion (Fast Move) + Psychic (Charge Move) or Future Sight (Charge Move)
* **Alternative:** Zen Headbutt (Fast Move) + Psychic (Charge Move)
These movesets allow Espeon to deal significant Psychic-type damage, which is super effective against its weaknesses.
### Strengths and Weaknesses
Espeon’s Psychic typing grants it advantages against:
* Fighting-type Pokémon
* Poison-type Pokémon
However, it is vulnerable to:
* Bug-type Pokémon
* Ghost-type Pokémon
* Dark-type Pokémon
When building a team, consider pairing Espeon with Pokémon that can cover its weaknesses and exploit its strengths.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
### Q1: Can I use the “Kira” name trick more than once for Espeon?
A1: No, the “Kira” name trick can only be used once per Eevee evolution type on your account. After using it, you must rely on the buddy system and in-game daytime method.
### Q2: What if I evolve Eevee at night after setting it as my buddy?
A2: If you evolve Eevee at night after meeting the buddy requirements, it will evolve into Umbreon instead of Espeon (assuming you haven’t used the “Linnea” name trick for Umbreon).
### Q3: How do I check my friendship level with Eevee?
A3: You can check your friendship level by tapping on your Buddy Pokémon and then tapping the heart icon. It will show you the current level, from “Good Buddy” to “Best Buddy.”
### Q4: Does the 10 km walking distance reset if I stop being buddies with Eevee?
A4: Yes, if you switch Eevee out as your buddy before completing the 10 km, the progress will reset. Ensure Eevee remains your buddy throughout the walking process.
### Q5: What is the best way to increase friendship quickly?
A5: Playing with your buddy, feeding it berries, and completing daily tasks with it as your buddy are the fastest ways to increase friendship.
In the main series Pokémon games, Espeon’s evolution was first introduced in Generation II (Gold and Silver). It represented a darker, more mystical side to Eevee’s potential evolutions, contrasting with its more elemental counterparts.
By following these steps, you can successfully obtain your very own Espeon in Pokémon GO. Remember to pay close attention to the in-game time and your Eevee’s buddy status for the most reliable evolution.
