Key points
- The unique concept for the evolution of Pokemon based on the use of the Substitute sparks debate among fans.
- Fans express mixed feelings about the idea, fearing that random evolutions could be devastating.
- The proposed solution would have evolved divided Pokemon like Shedinja, posing interesting possibilities.
A Pokémon fan designed a unique evolution for a Pokemon, imagining what could happen if Pokemon forgot who they were due to using the Substitute move. The unique concept of evolution has sparked conversations and debates Pokémon fans, who have mixed feelings about the implementation of this design in an actual game.
Pokemon evolutions have changed a lot over the years, creating new ways and methods for Pokemon to evolve. Some of the more unusual ones include Pokemon splitting during evolution or achieving alternate evolutions depending on a variety of factors. This fan's concept would certainly qualify as an unusual form of evolution and one that could backfire on some players.

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Reddit user and artist Matratzfratz shared his unique concept for a substitute-based evolution called Substititan. The idea behind evolution is that if a Pokemon used the Substitute and still hid behind it when it leveled up, evolution could trigger, transforming it into another Pokemon entirely. Matratzfratz's idea was for the Pokemon to forget who it was by hiding behind a Substitute, transforming into something that resembled an adult version of the plush toy-like decoy that takes the Pokemon's place while it uses the move. This could result in an entirely different Pokemon, turning any creature with the Substitute Ability into a four-legged, dinosaur-like green Pokemon.
Pokemon fans have mixed feelings about replacement evolution
Many players commented on the artist's post. While many have expressed interest in the idea of this concept, many have also shared their concerns about its drawbacks. Players point out that losing a valuable Pokemon due to a random evolution like this could be devastating for a player, especially if they were a child and didn't know what would happen. While stopping evolution would be a potential tactic to prevent a Pokemon from transforming into Substititan, there would definitely be some trainers who had no idea that it was a potential outcome and could end up regretting it.
One possible proposed solution is to separate Substititan from the Pokemon it evolved from, much like Shedinja. Players would need a free slot in their Pokemon lineup and an available Poke Ball. However, it is unclear how this might impact the lore, as Shedinja is essentially an animated carapace. Maybe the replacement plush would take on a life of its own, somehow. It could potentially make for an interesting evolution for Ditto, as his inherent copying techniques could theoretically transform him into a creature like this in a moment of confusion. In any case, a Pokemon's moves and choices made in battle just before evolving affect the outcome would be a very interesting twist on a game.

Pokémon
Pokemon is a franchise that needs no introduction. One of the most successful media empires in history, Pokemon spans games, television, films, manga, merchandise, music and more.
- Created by
- Satoshi Tajiri