With the release of yet another generation of Pokèmon being released in November of this year, a question arises that comes up with every generation: which Eeveelution (or Eevee evolution) is the best. As of Generation 8, Eevee has eight possible evolutions that can be obtained using different methods. Some Eeveelutions require stones, others require certain moves, and some require high friendship levels.
In Pokèmon's first generation, there were only 3 possible evolutions for Eevee: Flareon, Vaporeon, and Jolteon, all obtained using the appropriate stones. Generation 2 added Espeon and Umbreon which evolve depending on the time of day or whether the player has a Sun or Moon Shard. Leafeon and Glaceon were added in Generation 4 and also need a specific stone to evolve and Sylveon was added in Generation 6. Each of the many Pokèmon Eevee evolutions has its own type with the corresponding moves.
Many Pokèmon players have a particular Eeveelution that is their favorite, whether it's based on aesthetic, type, or stats, but which one truly is the best? The answer ultimately depends upon exactly what a player is looking for and needs to add to their team. It can also depend on which game the player is building a team for.
Every Eevee Evolution Is The Best Depending On The Player
Each Eevee evolution has different stats and different starting moves that make choosing the best difficult depending on what the player needs. As far as base stats, each evolution varies in its strong and weak points (see table). If players are looking for an evolved Eevee with a high HP and Special Attack, Vaporeon will be the best choice. Players looking for a fast Pokèmon with a high Special Attack will have the best luck with Jolteon or Espeon, voted a favorite Pokémon Eevee evolution. Players who prefer to be on the defensive will probably think that Leafeon or Umbreon is the best. As far as stats are concerned, each Eevee evolution can be the best for a player depending on the player's playing style. Newer players may want to focus more on an Eeveelution that has a higher HP whereas more seasoned players may want something with better Attack and Defense.
With eight different choices for Eevee to evolve into, Pokèmon players will forever disagree as to which is the best, though there are certainly some that rise a little higher in overall popularity compared to their counterparts. As far as raw popularity goes, many believe that Vaporeon is Pokémon's best Eevee evolution. With a strong defense and set of moves, it is a good addition to any team. Aesthetically, Vaporeon is adorable with its wide eyes, mermaid-like tail, and cat-like features. Other players may prefer a Pokèmon that is a different type than those from the starter types, avoiding Water-Type, Fire-Type, and Grass-Type.
Ultimately, the best Eeveelution is up to each individual player. Each has their positives and negatives and all can help make a great Pokèmon team. Whether or not players will see a ninth Eevee evolution in Pokèmon Scarlet and Violet is yet to be known, but fans can always hope.