Understanding Level-Up Mechanics in Pokémon Emerald

In Pokémon Emerald and other third-generation games, leveling up your Pokémon is guided by an experience (EXP) system. Each Pokémon species belongs to one of six unique EXP groups, determining how much EXP is required to reach the next level.

EXP Growth Groups:

1. Erratic (600,000 EXP at Level 100)
   • Requires less EXP at lower levels but significantly more at higher levels.
   • Examples: Whismur, Volbeat.
2. Fast (800,000 EXP at Level 100)
   • Quick to train, requiring less EXP overall.
   • Examples: Caterpie, Pidgey.
3. Medium Fast (1,000,000 EXP at Level 100)
   • Balanced growth curve, the most common group.
   • Examples: Pikachu, Bulbasaur.
4. Medium Slow (1,059,860 EXP at Level 100)
   • Requires more EXP than Medium Fast at higher levels.
   • Examples: Chansey, Dragonite.
5. Slow (1,250,000 EXP at Level 100)
   • Takes the longest to level up among common groups.
   • Examples: Legendary Pokémon like Articuno and Lugia.
6. Fluctuating (1,640,000 EXP at Level 100)
   • Starts with low EXP requirements but ramps up drastically later.
   • Examples: Wailmer, Swalot.

Practical Training Tips:

• EXP Share: Distribute EXP across your team efficiently.
• Battle High-Level Pokémon: Maximize EXP gain by battling tougher wild Pokémon or trainers.
• Use Rare Candies: Boost levels instantly but sparingly.

EV Training in Pokémon Emerald

Effort Values (EVs) are hidden points that allow players to customize their Pokémon’s stats based on the battles they engage in. Here’s how EVs work and how you can optimize your training.

Key EV Rules:

1. Max EVs Per Stat: 255 (but only multiples of 4 provide stat boosts, so aim for 252).
2. Total EV Limit: 510 (spread across all stats).
3. Impact on Stats: At Level 100, every 4 EVs increase a stat by 1 point.

How EVs Are Gained:

• EVs are awarded after defeating a Pokémon in battle.
• The EVs depend on the species of the defeated Pokémon. For example:
  • Zubat: 1 Speed EV
  • Geodude: 1 Defense EV

EV Training Tips:

1. Focus on Target Pokémon
   • Example: To train Speed, battle Zubat or Wingull.
   • To train Attack, target Shroomish or Machop.
2. Use Power-Boosting Items
   • Macho Brace: Doubles EVs earned in battle.
   • Vitamins: Add 10 EVs to a stat instantly (up to 100 EVs per stat).
     • Protein: +10 Attack EVs
     • Carbos: +10 Speed EVs
3. Track EV Progress
   • Since EVs are hidden, track manually or use external tools.
4. Remove Unwanted EVs
   • Use berries to reset EVs if needed:
     • Pomeg Berry: Lowers HP EVs
     • Tamato Berry: Lowers Speed EVs

EV Training Locations in Pokémon Emerald

Optimize your EV training by visiting areas with specific Pokémon that yield the EVs you want:

Practical Example: Speed EV Training

1. Choose a Location: Train on Route 104 (Wingull) or caves with Zubat.
2. Equip Macho Brace: Double the Speed EVs gained per battle.
3. Track Battles: Aim for 252 Speed EVs (126 battles with Macho Brace).
4. Use Carbos: Start with up to 100 EVs in Speed using Carbos.

Conclusion

By understanding the EXP growth groups and mastering EV training, you can build a powerful team tailored to your strategy. Whether you’re aiming for balanced stats or creating specialized powerhouses, these mechanics give you control over your Pokémon’s growth in Pokémon Emerald.