A Shiny Magikarp is a very good trophy, and the Pokémon that it evolves into (Shiny Gyarados) is one of the most common Shiny Pokémon in the game. You can try to raise a Magikarp to Level 100 for a challenge. A Level 100 Magikarp will also make for pretty good trading stock, as it’s really tough to get. At Level 30, Magikarp learns Flail. This is a very powerful move if your Pokémon is injured, which can make it a risky choice. If Flail suits your playstyle, it can be one of Gyarados’s most powerful moves, and may be worth holding the evolution off until your Magikarp has learned it.
See the next section for some ways to get Magikarp to Level 20 easily.
Your Magikarp won’t evolve in the Day Care Center, even if it surpasses Level 20. It will immediately try to evolve after its first battle when you retrieve it if it meets the level requirements.
After obtaining the Mega Ring, you’ll need to upgrade it by defeating your rival again in Kiloude City. Professor Sycamore will upgrade your ring after the battle. Click here for more details on the Mega Evolution process in X and Y.
X and Y - You can find the Gyaradosite in Couriway Town near the three waterfalls on the east side. Alpha Sapphire and Omega Ruby - Find Chomper the Poochyena on Route 123. You can find him at the 123 Go Fish shop. Give Chomper a scratch to receive the Gyaradosite.
