Is My Ditto Foreign? Unlocking the Secrets of International Pokémon Breeding
So, you’ve got a Ditto, huh? Excellent choice! These amorphous wonders are the backbone of any serious Pokémon breeder, and if you’re aiming for those elusive shiny Pokémon, a foreign Ditto is practically a necessity. But how can you tell if your Ditto has seen the world, or if it’s a local Paldean native? Let’s dive into the specifics.
The clearest indicator is right on the Pokémon’s summary screen. Look next to the Pokémon’s name. If the Ditto is from a game of a different language than your own, you will see a small black box containing letters indicating the country of origin. For example, “JPN” for Japanese, “FRE” for French, “GER” for German, and so on. If there’s no box, your Ditto is from the same language region as your game. Easy peasy!
Understanding the Foreign Ditto Advantage
Why all the fuss about foreign Dittos? It all boils down to something called the Masuda Method. This is a breeding technique that significantly increases the odds of hatching a shiny Pokémon. When you breed two Pokémon from different language versions of the game, the shiny chance skyrockets. Since Ditto can breed with almost any Pokémon (excluding Legendaries, Mythicals, and other Ditto), a foreign Ditto opens the door to shiny hunting on a whole new level.
Without the Masuda Method, the base shiny odds in modern Pokémon games are roughly 1 in 4096. Using the Masuda Method, this improves to approximately 1 in 683, or even better at around 1 in 512 if you also have the Shiny Charm.
Foreign Ditto Hunting: A Practical Guide
Obtaining a foreign Ditto typically involves trading with players from other regions. The most popular method is to use link codes specifically designed for Ditto trading. The most widely used code is 4448 4448. When you connect to the internet and use this code in the Link Trade option in your game, you’ll likely be paired with someone else looking to trade Dittos.
Before accepting the trade, always check the other player’s Ditto’s summary. This is where that telltale black box will reveal its origin. If it matches your game’s language, politely decline and try again. Patience is key, but with enough attempts, you’ll eventually find a trainer willing to part with a foreign Ditto.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Foreign Dittos
Let’s tackle some common questions about foreign Dittos and the Masuda Method to further clarify the process.
1. What is the best link code for trading Dittos?
The most commonly used and recognized link code for trading Dittos is 4448 4448. Using this code will connect you with other players who are also seeking to trade Dittos.
2. Does a foreign Ditto guarantee a shiny Pokémon?
No. A foreign Ditto significantly increases the chances of hatching a shiny Pokémon through the Masuda Method, but it doesn’t guarantee one. It simply improves your odds dramatically.
3. Do all foreign Pokémon work for the Masuda Method, or does it have to be Ditto?
Any two Pokémon from different language regions will trigger the Masuda Method. A foreign Ditto is simply the most versatile option because it can breed with almost any Pokémon.
4. How do I change my Pokémon game’s language?
On the Nintendo Switch, you can change the language of your game in the system settings before starting the game. Note that this setting usually applies to the entire system interface. In mobile versions of Pokémon GO, the language can be changed within the app’s settings.
5. Can Ditto breed with other Ditto?
Unfortunately, Ditto cannot breed with other Ditto. The Ditto Egg Group is unique, and its members cannot breed with each other. You can only obtain Ditto through catching, trading, or special events.
6. Are Dittos found in Tera Raids more likely to be foreign?
The region or language of a Ditto found in Tera Raids is determined by the language setting of the host’s game. So, doing Tera Raids does not increase the odds of getting a foreign Ditto; you will still need to trade.
7. Does the Masuda Method work in Pokémon GO?
The Masuda Method as it’s traditionally understood doesn’t apply to Pokémon GO. Shiny rates in Pokémon GO are generally fixed and influenced by events or species-specific boosts.
8. What does ENG, JPN, FRE, SPA, GER, ITA, KOR, and CHS mean on the Ditto summary screen?
These abbreviations represent the language of the game the Ditto originates from:
- ENG: English
- JPN: Japanese
- FRE: French
- SPA: Spanish
- GER: German
- ITA: Italian
- KOR: Korean
- CHS: Chinese (Simplified)
- CHT: Chinese (Traditional)
9. Does having a Shiny Charm affect the Masuda Method odds?
Yes! Having a Shiny Charm further improves your chances when using the Masuda Method. It stacks with the benefits of the Masuda Method, bringing your shiny odds even higher.
10. How can I increase my chances of getting a foreign Ditto in a trade?
Be patient and persistent. Keep searching using the 4448 4448 link code and always check the summary of the Ditto before accepting the trade. Consider being active in online Pokémon communities, where you can find specific trading partners.
11. Can I use a hacked Ditto for the Masuda Method?
Yes, a hacked Ditto will function the same as a legitimate Ditto for the Masuda Method. The game only checks the language region of the Pokémon. However, using hacked Pokémon carries ethical considerations, and using them in official competitions or online battles may violate the game’s terms of service.
12. How can I check the IVs (Individual Values) of my Ditto?
You can check the IVs of your Pokémon by unlocking the Judge function in the game. This typically involves completing a certain milestone, such as defeating the Elite Four or reaching a specific rank in the Battle Tower. Once unlocked, you can view a Pokémon’s IVs in its summary screen.
13. Is it possible to get a Ditto with perfect IVs through trading?
While it’s possible, it’s rare to find a foreign Ditto with perfect IVs through random trading. You may need to use online forums or communities to coordinate trades with players who have Dittos with desirable IVs. Keep an eye on Tera Raids where high IV Pokémon can appear.
14. Can I use a foreign Pokémon from a previous generation game for the Masuda Method in a newer game?
Yes, as long as the Pokémon can be transferred to the newer game (usually via Pokémon HOME) and they originate from a game with a different language setting, the Masuda Method will work.
15. Where can I learn more about breeding strategies and shiny hunting in Pokémon?
There are numerous resources available online, including websites, forums, and YouTube channels dedicated to Pokémon breeding and shiny hunting. Communities like Serebii.net and Bulbapedia provide comprehensive information on game mechanics and strategies. The Games Learning Society also explores the educational potential behind games and the strategies required to play effectively. You can find more information at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Final Thoughts
Hunting for a foreign Ditto is a rite of passage for any dedicated shiny hunter. Understanding how to identify a foreign Ditto and utilizing the Masuda Method will significantly increase your chances of adding those coveted shiny Pokémon to your collection. Good luck, and happy breeding!