
To some Pokémon, evolution means growing up, while to others, it just refers becoming another species or getting upgraded.

An evolution can also occur through multiple Pokémon of the same species combining. From Pokémon the Series: The Beginning through to Pokémon the Series: Diamond and Pearl, the Pokémon is surrounded by a white light, while in Pokémon the Series: Black & White to Pokémon Journeys: The Series, the Pokémon is surrounded by a golden or blue light. In the anime, during evolution, a Pokémon will become surrounded by a light and slowly change shape. In Pokémon Gold, Silver, Crystal, HeartGold and SoulSilver games, it is stated that Professor Elm is an expert on evolution, and discovered that Pikachu evolves from Pichu.

Evolution ( 進化 ( しんか ), Shinka) is the first evolution in the Pokémon franchise when one Pokémon, upon reaching a certain level, using certain stones, learning certain moves, or being traded, evolves into a different kind of Pokémon.
