Pokémon TCG Evolution Rules: Stage 1, Stage 2 and Rare Candy

A normal evolution line follows the Stage label and the name listed in the Evolves from field. A Basic Pokémon evolves into its matching Stage 1 Pokémon. That Stage 1 Pokémon then evolves into its matching Stage 2 Pokémon.

For an ordinary evolution, place the matching evolution card from your hand on the Pokémon already in play. The names must match the evolution relationship shown on the card.

A Pokémon cannot evolve during the first turn it is in play. This applies to a Pokémon put into play during your current turn. Wait until it has been in play for at least one turn before using ordinary evolution.

After a Pokémon evolves, it is treated as new in play. Therefore, it cannot evolve again during the same turn through ordinary evolution. For example, a Basic Pokémon cannot normally become Stage 1 and then Stage 2 in one turn.

There is no single evolution limit for your whole turn. You may evolve as many eligible Pokémon as you want during your turn. Each Pokémon must still meet the timing rule and the correct evolution relationship.

This means several Pokémon can evolve in the same turn if each one has already been in play for the required time and you have the matching cards in hand.

When a Pokémon evolves, its attached cards stay with it. This includes cards attached to that Pokémon before evolution. Damage counters also stay on the evolved Pokémon.

Evolution removes attack effects and Special Conditions affecting that Pokémon. If you need a refresher on conditions such as Poisoned or Asleep, see our [Pokémon TCG Special Conditions guide](/blog/pokemon-tcg-special-conditions-guide).

Rare Candy lets you choose a Basic Pokémon in play and put a matching Stage 2 Pokémon from your hand onto it. This skips the Stage 1 card, but it does not remove the timing restrictions printed on Rare Candy.

Rare Candy cannot be used during your first turn or on a Basic Pokémon put into play during that turn. Follow the current text on the Rare Candy card when resolving it.

The most common mistake is evolving a Basic Pokémon on the same turn it was played. Another mistake is placing a Stage 2 on a Basic through ordinary evolution. Ordinary evolution needs the matching Stage 1 first, unless a card such as Rare Candy provides a legal shortcut.

Players also sometimes remove damage counters or attached cards after evolution. Those remain on the Pokémon. Only the effects and Special Conditions covered by the evolution rule are cleared.