It looks like new Pokémon Meltan can only be caught in Pokémon Go and can evolve
Steel a look.
The mystery surrounding new Pokémon Meltan has been somewhat lifted, as new videos shared on the official Pokémon channel hint the Pokémon may be able to evolve, is attracted by an ancient box, and can only be caught in Pokémon Go. Phew.
Right, let's start with the evolution news. Towards the end of the first information video, a group of Meltans (who appear to be having a nice nap) suddenly transform into a much bigger creature. We only see the shadow, but this glimpse alone is enough to tell us there's more to Meltan than meets the eye.
Given the video shows a group of Meltans before the transformation process begins, a fair guess would be that Meltan's evolutionary process requires catching multiple Meltans. It could be similar to generation 6 and 7 Pokémon Zygarde, which requires players collect Zygarde Cores and Cells to create types of Zygarde Pokémon.
A second video shared today also gave us more information on catching Meltan, although in typical Pokémon style, it's pretty cryptic. Delivered by comedy duo Professor Willow and Professor Oak, the video reveals that real Meltans (not Dittos) can be attracted by opening a mysterious ancient box when standing in nature. On opening the box, many Meltans appear - but only for a limited time.
Thankfully, some of this was explained in a press release. Apparently players will receive items when they send Pokémon from Pokémon Go to Pokémon Let's Go. The first time this happens, players will receive the "mystery box" and will be able to catch the hex nut Pokémon for a limited period of time - what appears to be 30 minutes, judging by the official artwork. After another (unknown) period of waiting, players will be able to open the box again if they send another Pokémon from Pokémon Go to Let's Go.
Interestingly, it sounds like Meltans can only be caught in Pokémon Go, and then transferred to Let's Go. This would make Meltan the first Pokémon which is exclusively catchable in Pokémon Go.
In recent weeks, the Meltans appearing in Pokémon Go had been transforming back into Dittos when caught - making life difficult for trainers wanting to complete their Pokédexes. It seems like the mystery box will finally allow trainers to catch the elusive critters.
To find out more about our favourite "nutboi" Pokémon, make sure to check out our Meltan guide.