Are XXL Pokémon Rare? A Deep Dive into Pokémon GO’s Biggest Catches

Yes, XXL Pokémon are indeed rare in Pokémon GO. While Niantic has made them more obtainable since their introduction, encountering these oversized creatures still requires a significant amount of luck and persistence. The article you provided touches on the odds, stating it requires “4 standard deviations of height,” with estimates suggesting a chance of around 1 in 31,500. This means you’ll need to encounter and catch a lot of Pokémon to find one that qualifies as XXL. While all Pokémon can now be XXS and XXL, their rarity remains a key part of their appeal and collectibility.

Unpacking the Rarity: What Makes XXL Pokémon Special?

The rarity of XXL Pokémon stems from the random number generation (RNG) that dictates a Pokémon’s size upon spawning. Each Pokémon has a height and weight value assigned within a specific range. Only those Pokémon whose height and weight fall within the upper limits, often requiring being above a certain standard deviation from the mean, are considered XXL. The exact algorithm Niantic uses is proprietary, but the result is clear: these giants are not common. This system, in effect, introduces a chance-based element into collecting, turning it into a game of probability and persistence. Understanding this aspect of the game’s mechanics can influence how players approach Pokémon GO. Exploring these game dynamics could even be a topic of research for organizations like the Games Learning Society.

Why Bother Collecting XXL Pokémon?

Beyond the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of adding a rare creature to your collection, XXL Pokémon offer a few unique perks:

• Visual Distinction: XXL Pokémon are noticeably larger than their standard counterparts. This visual difference extends to the overworld, battle screens, and even AR shots. This creates a unique visual representation of the creature, making it more memorable and engaging.

• Celebratory Messages: Catching an XXL Pokémon, especially if it’s the largest you’ve caught of that species, triggers a special celebratory message in-game. It’s a small reward, but one that reinforces the sense of accomplishment.

• Bragging Rights: Let’s be honest, showing off a rare XXL Pokémon to your friends and fellow trainers is part of the fun! These oversized catches are a testament to your dedication and luck in the game.

• Collection Completion: For completionists, finding XXL Pokémon is another goal to strive for. Collecting medals and achieving various milestones in Pokémon GO are essential for many players, and XXL Pokémon add another layer to this aspect of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About XXL Pokémon

Here are some frequently asked questions about XXL Pokémon in Pokémon GO, designed to provide comprehensive information and clarify common points of confusion:

1. How do I increase my chances of finding an XXL Pokémon?

While there’s no guaranteed method, increasing the number of Pokémon you encounter is the most effective strategy. Focus on areas with high Pokémon spawn rates, use Incense and Lure Modules, and participate in events that boost spawns. The more Pokémon you check, the higher your probability of finding an XXL.

2. Do certain Pokémon have a higher chance of being XXL?

No, there’s no evidence to suggest that specific Pokémon species are inherently more likely to be XXL. The size determination appears to be random and independent for each Pokémon encounter. However, certain events may influence the spawn rates of specific Pokemon, allowing an increased opportunity to find a large variant of that specific type.

3. Do XXL Pokémon have any combat advantages?

No, XXL Pokémon do not have any inherent stat bonuses or combat advantages in battles, raids, or Gyms. Their size is purely cosmetic and does not affect their CP, HP, attack, or defense values. The statement provided in the original text that size matters for PvP or evolution is incorrect.

4. Are XXS Pokémon as rare as XXL Pokémon?

Yes, XXS Pokémon are generally considered to be just as rare as XXL Pokémon. They represent the opposite end of the size spectrum, and encountering one also requires a significant amount of luck. The odds for both are statistically similar.

5. Does weather affect the chance of finding XXL Pokémon?

There is no confirmed correlation between weather conditions in Pokémon GO and the likelihood of finding XXL Pokémon. Weather boosts influence the spawn rates of certain types of Pokémon, but not their size distribution.

6. Can Shadow Pokémon be XXL?

Yes, Shadow Pokémon can be XXL. The size determination is independent of whether a Pokémon is a Shadow variant. You can encounter XXL Shadow Pokémon in Team GO Rocket battles and subsequent capture encounters.

7. Can Legendary Pokémon be XXL?

Yes, Legendary Pokémon can be XXL. While these encounters are already rare, the possibility of finding an XXL Legendary Pokémon makes them even more coveted. Niantic’s statement linking XXL and Legendaries underlines this point.

8. Is there a medal for collecting XXL Pokémon?

While there isn’t a specific medal solely dedicated to XXL Pokémon, there are medals related to catching certain types of Pokémon that indirectly reward catching more Pokémon in general. As you strive for these medals, you’ll naturally increase your chances of encountering XXL Pokémon.

9. Does purifying a Shadow Pokémon affect its size?

No, purifying a Shadow Pokémon does not alter its size. The size of a Pokémon is determined upon its initial encounter and remains constant, regardless of whether it’s Shadow, Purified, or standard.

10. Are XXL Pokémon more difficult to catch?

No, the size of a Pokémon does not affect its catch rate. Catch rate is determined by factors such as the Pokémon’s species, level, the type of Poké Ball used, berries applied, and the accuracy of your throw.

11. Can shiny Pokémon be XXL?

Yes, shiny Pokémon can be XXL. Encountering a shiny XXL Pokémon is considered extremely rare, combining two highly desirable traits into one Pokémon. This combination adds an extra layer of excitement for dedicated collectors.

12. Do XXL Pokémon take up more storage space?

No, XXL Pokémon do not take up more storage space than regular-sized Pokémon. Storage space is allocated based on the number of Pokémon you own, not their individual sizes.

13. Is there a way to measure a Pokémon’s size after catching it?

Yes, after catching a Pokémon, you can view its height and weight in its stat screen. This allows you to compare it to other Pokémon of the same species and determine if it qualifies as XXL compared to your current record. The celebratory message also shows if you achieved a new record.

14. Do Community Day Pokémon have an increased chance of being XXL?

While Community Days increase the spawn rate of a specific Pokémon, there is no official confirmation that it also increases the chance of encountering an XXL version. However, the sheer number of encounters during Community Day makes it a great opportunity to hunt for XXL Pokémon of that species.

15. Where can I learn more about the underlying mechanics of Pokémon GO?

Websites like Silph Road provide comprehensive information, and engaging with the Pokémon GO community can lead to shared knowledge and discoveries. For deeper insights into the educational aspects of gaming, consider exploring the work of the GamesLearningSociety.org, which explores the intersection of games, learning, and societal impact.

Conclusion: The Pursuit of the Colossal

Finding an XXL Pokémon in Pokémon GO is a testament to patience, persistence, and a little bit of luck. While these oversized creatures don’t offer any combat advantages, their rarity and visual distinctiveness make them highly sought-after by collectors and dedicated players. So, keep exploring, keep catching, and you might just stumble upon a truly colossal addition to your Pokémon GO team.