The Classic Trade Evolution Method
Since the very first Pokémon games, the only way to evolve Haunter has been through a special method: trading. Unlike most Pokémon that evolve by reaching a certain level, Haunter requires interaction with another player. When you trade your Haunter to another trainer's game, the evolution process is triggered on their end, transforming it into Gengar. To get your newly evolved Gengar back, your trade partner must then trade it back to you. This mechanic has been a staple of the series, encouraging players to connect and trade with friends to complete their Pokédex.
This method applies to nearly all core series games, from Pokémon Red and Blue all the way to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. Without a trade, your Haunter will remain a Haunter, no matter how high its level gets.
- Haunter evolves into Gengar.
- The primary evolution method is by trading Haunter to another player.
- In Pokémon Legends: Arceus, a Linking Cord item can be used as an alternative to trading.
EVOLUTION CHAIN
SPRITE GALLERY
OFFICIAL ARTWORK
OFFICIAL SHINY
HOME 3D
HOME 3D SHINY
FRONT
FRONT SHINY
BACK
BACK SHINY
ANIMATED
ANIMATED SHINY- Pokémon
- Haunter
- Type
- Ghost, Poison
- Total stats
- 405
| Pokémon | Type | Total stats |
|---|---|---|
| Haunter | Ghost, Poison | 405 |
Game-Specific Methods and Special Cases
While trading is the standard, some games have introduced alternative ways to evolve Haunter. The most significant exception is found in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. In this title, you can use a special item called the 'Linking Cord' on your Haunter to evolve it into Gengar directly, completely bypassing the need for a trade. You can purchase this item using Merit Points at the Trading Post in Jubilife Village.
In Pokémon GO, the trading mechanic is also rewarded. While you can evolve Haunter using 100 Gastly Candy, if you receive a Haunter in a trade from another player, the Candy cost to evolve it into Gengar is reduced to zero, making it a free evolution.
Discover Gengar's Evolution Line
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Haunter evolve by leveling up?
No, Haunter does not evolve by leveling up. Its evolution into Gengar is specifically triggered by trading it to another player in most games, or by using a Linking Cord in Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
What happens if I trade a Haunter holding an Everstone?
If Haunter is holding an Everstone when traded, it will not evolve. The Everstone is an item that specifically prevents a Pokémon from evolving, and its effect takes priority over the trade evolution trigger.
Does the level of my Haunter matter when I trade it?
No, the level of your Haunter does not affect its ability to evolve via trade. A Haunter at any level (from the level it evolved from Gastly onwards) will evolve into Gengar as soon as it is successfully traded.