Your Complete Guide to Evolving Riolu and Shinx in Pokémon
If you’ve been training your Pokémon and wondering, “What level does Riolu Sphinx at?” — don’t worry, you’re not alone! This search phrase pops up often among new and returning Pokémon trainers trying to figure out when and how their Riolu and Shinx evolve.
In this article, we’ll clear up exactly:
- What level Riolu evolves at
- What level Shinx evolves at (assuming “Sphinx” is Shinx!)
- Tips to evolve them faster
- Common mistakes trainers make
Let’s jump right in!
Understanding the Confusion: Riolu vs. Sphinx
First, let’s clarify:
- Riolu is a Fighting-type Pokémon introduced in Generation IV. It evolves into Lucario, a fan-favorite.
- Sphinx is not a Pokémon — but it’s a common misspelling for Shinx, an Electric-type Pokémon from the same generation.
So, this question really asks:
At what level does Riolu evolve, and at what level does Shinx evolve?
What Level Does Riolu Evolve?
Unlike most Pokémon, Riolu doesn’t evolve by leveling up alone — instead, it evolves through high friendship during the daytime.
✅ How to evolve Riolu into Lucario:
- Increase Riolu’s friendship to about 220 (out of 255).
- Level it up during the day (in-game time, usually from 4 AM to 8 PM).
Key tips to boost Riolu’s friendship fast:
- Walk with Riolu in your party.
- Use it in battles (but don’t let it faint).
- Give it a Soothe Bell to hold.
- Feed it vitamins like Protein or Iron.
- Avoid using bitter herbal medicines — these lower friendship!
Example:
In Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, players often catch Riolu near snowy mountains and evolve it by keeping it in their party and using auto-battles until it loves them enough.
What Level Does Shinx Evolve?

Shinx, the Electric-type lion cub, evolves by level — not by friendship.
✅ Shinx evolution stages:
- Shinx → Luxio: Evolves at level 15
- Luxio → Luxray: Evolves at level 30
So, just keep training Shinx, battle wild Pokémon, and watch it evolve naturally at these levels.
Example:
In Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl, Shinx is one of the earliest Electric-types you can catch. Many players level it up in the early routes until it becomes Luxio around level 15, and then Luxray at level 30 — a solid powerhouse for your team.
Tips to Evolve Riolu and Shinx Faster
✔️ Keep them in your active party.
✔️ Use Exp. Share to gain levels without fighting directly.
✔️ Feed them XP Candies in modern games like Sword & Shield or Scarlet & Violet.
✔️ Avoid fainting: Pokémon that faint lose happiness!
✔️ Visit the Pokémon Groomer or use a Soothe Bell for Riolu.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🔹 Trying to evolve Riolu at night: It won’t work! Riolu evolves only during daytime.
🔹 Confusing “Sphinx” with “Shinx”: Double-check the spelling if searching for guides.
🔹 Neglecting friendship for Riolu: Level 100 Riolu won’t evolve if it doesn’t love you yet!
Summary: Riolu and Shinx Evolution Levels
Pokémon | How It Evolves | Evolution Level |
---|---|---|
Riolu | High friendship + daytime | No fixed level |
Shinx → Luxio | By leveling up | Level 15 |
Luxio → Luxray | By leveling up | Level 30 |
FAQs
Q1: Can Riolu evolve at night?
No — Riolu only evolves during the day once it has high friendship.
Q2: Is Sphinx a real Pokémon?
No — “Sphinx” is a common typo for Shinx, an Electric-type lion cub Pokémon.
Q3: What’s the fastest way to evolve Riolu?
Keep it in your party, battle often, use a Soothe Bell, and level up during the day once it’s very friendly.
Meta Description
Wondering what level Riolu Sphinx at? Learn when and how Riolu and Shinx evolve in Pokémon games, with clear tips for fast evolution!
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Evolving your Pokémon is one of the most rewarding parts of the adventure. Now you know exactly how to evolve Riolu and Shinx (not Sphinx!). Show your Riolu some love, train your Shinx well, and enjoy watching them grow into Lucario and Luxray.