Unlocking the Power of XL Candy: A Trainer’s Guide to Rare Candy Conversion

So, you’re ready to supercharge your Pokémon beyond Level 40 in Pokémon GO? The key, of course, is XL Candy. But what if you’re sitting on a pile of Rare Candy and wondering if you can convert it into that coveted Rare Candy XL? Let’s dive right in!

Unfortunately, the answer is no. You cannot directly convert Rare Candy to Rare Candy XL in Pokémon GO. Rare Candy converts into the regular candy specific to the Pokémon you choose to use it on. Rare Candy XL is obtained through other means, such as catching Pokémon, hatching eggs, trading, and more, all of which we will cover in this comprehensive guide.

It can be frustrating to have a stash of Rare Candy when XL Candy is what you really need, but fear not, Trainer! This guide will give you a deep dive into everything XL Candy, including how to get it and how to use it effectively.

XL Candy: The Key to Unleashing Pokémon Potential

XL Candy is the key that unlocks your Pokémon’s true potential by allowing you to power them up beyond level 40. This unlocks a whole new level of competitiveness in raids, gyms, and the GO Battle League. It’s a game-changer, and understanding how to efficiently acquire XL Candy is crucial for any serious Pokémon GO player.

While you can’t directly convert Rare Candy, understanding how XL Candy works in tandem with regular candy and Stardust is key to optimizing your Pokémon.

Obtaining XL Candy: More Than Just Conversion

The most common and reliable methods for obtaining XL Candy are:

• Catching Pokémon: This is the most basic, yet arguably the most effective, way to earn XL Candy. Higher-level Pokémon and evolved forms have a higher chance of dropping more XL Candy.

• Hatching Eggs: Hatching eggs can provide a good amount of XL Candy, especially for rarer Pokémon.

• Trading Pokémon: Trading Pokémon with friends can randomly award one or both trainers with XL Candy. Trading Pokémon caught far apart increases the chances.

• Transferring Pokémon: While not guaranteed, transferring Pokémon to Professor Willow can sometimes yield XL Candy.

• Walking with your Buddy: Earning candy by walking with your buddy may also give you XL Candy.

• Special Events and Research: Niantic frequently includes XL Candy as rewards in special events, research tasks, and timed challenges. Pay attention to in-game announcements and take advantage of these opportunities!

Understanding the Cost: XL Candy and Regular Candy

Powering up a Pokémon from Level 40 to Level 50 requires a significant investment. You’ll need a substantial amount of Stardust and 296 XL Candy for non-Shadow Pokémon. Shadow Pokémon require 360 XL Candy, while purified Pokémon require 272 XL Candy.

On top of XL Candy, you’ll still need regular candy for the specific Pokémon you’re powering up. It is vital to manage your Stardust as well, since it is an important component in Powering up a Pokémon.

Making the Most of Your Rare Candy

Though you cannot directly transform Rare Candy into its XL counterpart, you can still leverage it strategically. Use Rare Candy to level up Pokémon you plan to evolve, which will then allow you to catch evolved forms. Evolved Pokémon have a better chance of dropping XL Candy when caught, making the investment a net gain towards your XL Candy goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about XL Candy, Rare Candy, and how they work in Pokémon GO.

1. Can I convert regular Candy to XL Candy?

   Yes, you can convert regular Candy to XL Candy, but it’s generally not recommended unless you have a massive surplus of regular candy. The conversion rate is steep: 100 regular candies for just 1 XL Candy.

2. What level do I need to be to get XL Candy?

   You can start obtaining XL Candy once you reach Trainer Level 31. Previously, it was Level 40, but this was changed in an update.

3. Are there any guaranteed ways to get XL Candy?

   Yes, catching Legendary, Mythical, or fully evolved Pokémon guarantees a certain amount of XL Candy.

4. How many XL Candies does it take to level a Pokémon to level 50?

   It takes 296 XL Candy to power up a regular Pokémon from Level 40 to Level 50. Shadow Pokémon require 360, and purified Pokémon require 272.

5. What are Rare XL Candies?

   Rare XL Candy functions just like Rare Candy, but for XL Candy. You can convert it into XL Candy for any Pokémon you choose. It is typically acquired through special events and research.

6. Is there a limit to how many Buddy Candies I can earn per day?

   Yes, there is a limit of 40 kilometers per day for earning Buddy Candies. It is important to note that this may affect the number of XL Candy you obtain in a day.

7. What is the best way to maximize XL Candy gains?

   The best way to maximize XL Candy gains is to actively catch Pokémon, especially evolved forms and during events that boost XL Candy drops. Hatching eggs, trading, and transferring Pokémon are also helpful.

8. What are the benefits of leveling up my Pokémon to level 50?

   Leveling up your Pokémon to level 50 significantly increases their CP (Combat Power) and stats, making them more powerful in raids, gyms, and the GO Battle League.

9. Are there any exploits to get XL Candy faster?

   There have been exploits in the past, such as the GPS manipulation exploit, but Niantic has taken action against these and is banning players who use them. It’s always best to play fairly.

10. Why am I not getting XL Candy even after reaching level 31?

    While you unlock the ability to obtain XL Candy at level 31, it’s not guaranteed with every catch or action. Keep playing and engaging in activities that reward XL Candy, and you’ll start seeing them accumulate.

11. Can I trade XL Candy?

    No, you cannot directly trade XL Candy with other players.

12. Is there a downside to using Rare Candies?

    In the main series Pokémon games, there are potential downsides to Rare Candy use due to EVs (Effort Values), but this is not a factor in Pokémon GO.

13. What is the average level of a Pokémon GO player?

    The average Pokémon GO player is around level 23, with most players falling between levels 21 and 30.

14. Can I convert XL candy to regular candy?

    No, you cannot convert XL Candy back into regular candy.

15. How important is Stardust in powering up a Pokémon with XL Candy?

    Stardust is extremely important. Powering up a Pokemon past Level 40 requires a significant investment of Stardust in addition to XL Candy and regular candy.

Embrace the Journey: Power Up with Knowledge

While the direct Rare Candy to Rare Candy XL conversion remains a dream, understanding the mechanics of XL Candy acquisition and strategic use of Rare Candy is key to excelling in Pokémon GO. Stay informed, participate in events, and keep catching those Pokémon to build your XL Candy stockpile!

For more insights into the world of gaming and learning, explore the resources at the GamesLearningSociety.org. Gaming can be an amazing learning tool, and this organization leads the way in exploring that potential. Embrace the adventure, and keep exploring!

Disclaimer: Pokémon GO is a trademark of Niantic, Inc. All other trademarks, service marks, and trade names are proprietary to their respective owners. This guide is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with Niantic, Inc.