Evolution is the biggest power spike your units get. An evolved unit shoots up in stats, gets new ability effects, and often a wider attack range — way more effective than the same unit unevolved. But evolution materials don't grow on trees, so who you evolve first decides how fast you cut through mid-game.
Each unit needs specific materials — star fragments, element shards, gold — depending on its rarity and level. After evolving, the unit keeps its level but gets a full stat reset upward. So the higher you level them before evolving, the bigger the post-evolution boost. Don't rush it at minimum level — wait until they're close to max for their current tier.
Materials drop from story stages, daily dungeons, and event shops. Harder stages drop better stuff but cost more energy. Most efficient move: farm the hardest stage you can 3-star consistently, not the one you barely scrape through. Save your gems for energy refills during 2x material events — your return per gem doubles during those windows.
DPS first, then control, then support. Same sequence every time. Damage and control clear stages — support just makes your clearers better at their job. Limited materials hit hardest when you follow that order.
See which units are worth evolving in the Units Guide. Stage-by-stage material advice on the Stages Guide. Stock up with Anime Adventures codes.