Pokemon Scarlet & Violet: How To Catch And Evolve Deino

This guide details how to obtain and utilize the powerful Dark/Dragon-type Pokémon, Hydreigon, in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. Hydreigon, a pseudo-legendary Pokémon, boasts impressive stats and is a valuable asset to any team. However, its evolutionary line, starting with Deino, is exclusive to Pokémon Scarlet.

Updated January 13, 2025 by Renri Seong: This guide has been updated to include the latest information on Hydreigon's stats and type matchups.

Acquiring Deino in Pokémon Scarlet:

Deino and its evolution, Zweilous, can be found in several locations within Pokémon Scarlet: Alfornada Cavern, Dalizapa Passage, Glaseado Mountain, Area Zero, and North Province (Area Two). Those in Dalizapa Passage and Alfornada Cavern are higher leveled (35-40). Koraidon's high jump ability is necessary for accessing Alfornada Cavern. Additionally, Deino can be found in 3-star Tera Raids (requiring 3 gym badges), offering a chance for a Hidden Ability. Zweilous appears in 4-star Tera Raids. Hydreigon can be obtained from 5/6-star Tera Raids.

Obtaining Deino in Pokémon Violet:

Since Deino is exclusive to Pokémon Scarlet, trading or transferring is necessary to obtain it in Pokémon Violet. Utilize the Union Circle (requires Nintendo Switch Online) for trading, or transfer via Pokémon HOME from compatible games such as Pokémon Sword/Shield, Pokémon GO, or Pokémon Scarlet. The Pokémon HOME method involves moving Deino to your HOME Basic Box, then transferring it to your Pokémon Violet PC Box.

Evolving Deino:

Deino evolves into Zweilous at level 50, and Zweilous evolves into Hydreigon at level 64. Utilize auto-battling or Exp. Candies (L and XL recommended) to expedite the evolution process.

Hydreigon's Strengths and Weaknesses:

Hydreigon possesses a base stat total of 600, excelling in Special Attack and Attack with good Speed. A Timid or Jolly Nature is recommended.

• Type Effectiveness:
  • Super Effective Against: Dragon, Ghost, Psychic
  • Weaknesses: Fairy (4x), Fighting, Bug, Dragon, Ice
  • Resistances: Grass, Water, Fire, Electric, Ghost, Dark
  • Immunities: Ground, Psychic

Its 4x weakness to Fairy-type moves is significant. Consider using Terastallization to mitigate this weakness, and equip moves like Flash Cannon (Steel-type TM) to cover this vulnerability. Other recommended moves include Nasty Plot, Dragon Pulse (or Draco Meteor), and Dark Pulse. Hydreigon's movepool allows for both physical and special attacking strategies.