Can You REALLY Catch ‘Em All in Pokémon GO? A Deep Dive into Pokedex Completion
The burning question on every Pokémon GO trainer’s mind: Is it possible to get a full Pokedex in Pokémon GO? The answer, sadly, is a nuanced no, not completely, and not permanently. While theoretically possible to register every available Pokémon at a given time, Niantic constantly introduces new Pokémon, regional exclusives, and event-specific creatures, meaning the “full” Pokedex is a perpetually moving target. Achieving true, lasting completion is an ongoing journey, not a final destination.
The Ever-Expanding World of Pokémon GO
Pokémon GO launched with the promise of catching 151 Pokémon, echoing the original Red and Blue games. But since then, the game has exploded with new generations, regional variants, shinies, and mythical creatures. This constant influx of new content is a double-edged sword. It keeps the game fresh and exciting but also makes achieving a truly complete Pokedex virtually impossible.
Regional Exclusives: The Geographic Hurdle
One of the biggest roadblocks to Pokedex completion is regional exclusive Pokémon. These Pokémon only spawn in specific parts of the world, requiring trainers to travel or rely on trading with others. While trading has made these Pokémon more accessible, the sheer cost and logistical challenges remain significant.
Mythical and Legendary Pokémon: Event-Locked Challenges
Mythical and Legendary Pokémon are another significant hurdle. These powerful Pokémon are typically only available during special events or through research tasks. Missing an event can mean waiting months or even years for another opportunity to catch a particular Mythical or Legendary Pokémon. The article mentions ftb_hodor who completed the North American Pokédex but even that excluded the Pokemon only available outside of North America.
Seasonal and Event-Specific Pokémon: A Fleeting Opportunity
Beyond Legendaries and Regionals, seasonal and event-specific Pokémon make Pokedex completion a dynamic challenge. Some Pokémon only appear during certain times of the year or during specific in-game events. This means trainers must be vigilant and active to catch these elusive creatures.
The Illusion of Completion: A Snapshot in Time
While a truly permanent full Pokedex is impossible, it is possible to complete it for a given moment. A trainer can, at some point, have registered every available Pokémon in their Pokedex. However, this achievement is fleeting. As soon as Niantic releases new Pokémon, the chase begins again.
100% IV Pokémon: Chasing Perfection
Adding another layer of complexity is the pursuit of 100% IV (Individual Value) Pokémon, often referred to as “perfect” Pokémon. While these aren’t required for Pokedex completion, many trainers strive to collect them, adding another layer of challenge and dedication. This is as rare as the article mentions, with a 1/4096 chance of encountering such a Pokémon.
FAQs: Your Burning Pokémon GO Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) that will hopefully help you understand the challenges and nuances of Pokedex completion in Pokémon GO.
1. What is the current maximum number of Pokémon in the Pokémon GO Pokedex?
The exact number fluctuates with each new release, but it is currently well over 800 Pokémon. The articles references 830 Pokemon caught, but the actual number is significantly higher now.
2. Are Shiny Pokémon required for Pokedex completion?
No, Shiny Pokémon are not required to complete the Pokedex. They are simply cosmetic variations and a separate collection challenge.
3. How do I get regional exclusive Pokémon without traveling?
Trading with other players is the most common way to obtain regional exclusive Pokémon without traveling. Keep an eye out for local Pokémon GO communities or online groups to find trading partners.
4. What are the best ways to find Legendary and Mythical Pokémon?
Participate in Raids during special events and complete Special Research tasks that reward encounters with Legendary and Mythical Pokémon.
5. Is there a reward for completing the Pokedex in Pokémon GO?
There is no specific in-game reward for completing the Pokedex. However, the sense of accomplishment and bragging rights are a reward in themselves.
6. What are IVs, and why are they important?
IVs (Individual Values) are hidden stats that determine a Pokémon’s potential in battle. Pokémon with higher IVs are generally stronger. They are not vital to filling the Pokedex, but are necessary for serious players.
7. How do I check a Pokémon’s IVs?
You can use in-game appraisal tools or third-party apps (use with caution, as some may violate the game’s terms of service) to check a Pokémon’s IVs.
8. What is the rarest Pokémon in Pokémon GO?
Rarity varies depending on the event and location. Some of the rarest Pokémon include Azelf, Mesprit, Uxie (regional Legendaries), and certain event-exclusive Shinies.
9. What are Community Days, and why are they important?
Community Days are monthly events that feature a specific Pokémon with increased spawn rates, a higher chance of being Shiny, and an exclusive move. They are a great way to catch rare Pokémon and build up your collection.
10. How has Pokémon GO changed since its launch?
Pokémon GO has undergone significant changes since its launch, including the addition of new generations of Pokémon, new features like Raids and Research tasks, and improvements to the user interface.
11. What happened with the three-step glitch mentioned in the article?
The “three-step glitch” was an early issue in Pokémon GO that made it difficult to track Pokémon. It contributed to some player frustration. As the article mentions, it was caused by Niantic’s handling of the glitch.
12. Why did Pokémon GO’s initial popularity decline?
While it is still popular, early issues like the three-step glitch, server problems, and a lack of new content contributed to a decline in initial hype. However, continuous updates have retained the game’s appeal.
13. Can you catch Mew in the wild in Pokémon GO?
No, Mew cannot be caught in the wild. It is typically obtained through Special Research tasks.
14. What are the best tips for catching hard-to-find Pokémon?
Use Incense and Lure Modules to increase spawns, participate in events, explore different locations, and join local Pokémon GO communities.
15. What is the Games Learning Society, and how is it relevant to Pokémon GO?
The Games Learning Society is a group that studies the educational and social impacts of video games. While not directly related to Pokémon GO, it’s work explores how games like Pokémon GO can foster learning, social interaction, and exploration. GamesLearningSociety.org is their website, where you can learn more.
Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination
Ultimately, Pokedex completion in Pokémon GO is less about achieving a final goal and more about embracing the ongoing journey. The constant influx of new Pokémon, events, and challenges ensures that there’s always something new to discover. Enjoy the thrill of the hunt, the camaraderie of the community, and the joy of collecting, and don’t get too hung up on the impossible task of catching every Pokémon forever.