Can You Breed Arceus in Legends? Unraveling the Mysteries of Pokémon Breeding
The short answer is a definitive no. Arceus, the mythical Pokémon often referred to as the “God Pokémon,” cannot be bred in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, or any other main series Pokémon game for that matter. This holds true even when attempting to breed it with Ditto, the Pokémon known for its ability to transform and breed with almost any other Pokémon. The inability to breed Arceus stems from its classification within the “Undiscovered” egg group, a category that prevents breeding altogether. This article will delve into the reasons why, explore the breeding mechanics (or lack thereof) in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, and answer frequently asked questions regarding Pokémon breeding in general.
Why Can’t Arceus Breed?
The Undiscovered Egg Group
As mentioned above, the primary reason Arceus cannot breed is due to its belonging to the Undiscovered Egg Group. This egg group is reserved for Legendary and Mythical Pokémon, which, with very few exceptions, are generally excluded from the breeding process. This design choice by the Pokémon developers reinforces the unique and often singular nature of these powerful Pokémon.
Legendary Status and Game Balance
Another consideration is game balance. Allowing players to breed Arceus, or any other particularly strong Legendary Pokémon, would potentially disrupt the equilibrium of the game. Imagine an army of Arceus clones running around. This would trivialize challenges and diminish the value of obtaining the original Legendary creature through difficult gameplay.
Story Significance
The lore surrounding Arceus also plays a part. In Pokémon mythology, Arceus is often depicted as the creator of the Pokémon universe, a being of unparalleled power and importance. Breeding such a significant figure would detract from its legendary status and diminish the impact of its role in the narrative.
Breeding in Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Pokémon Legends: Arceus significantly deviates from the traditional Pokémon formula in several ways, and one notable difference is the complete absence of a breeding mechanic. Unlike previous games where players could leave Pokémon at a Day Care to produce eggs, Pokémon Legends: Arceus does not feature any such facility or method. Pokémon can still be obtained, however, through catching them in the wild, completing requests, or trading with other players.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to Pokémon breeding, encompassing both Pokémon Legends: Arceus and the wider Pokémon universe.
1. Is it possible to breed Ditto with Arceus?
No. Even though Ditto can breed with many Pokémon, it cannot breed with Pokémon in the Undiscovered Egg Group, which includes Arceus.
2. Which Legendary Pokémon can breed?
The only Legendary Pokémon that can breed is Manaphy. However, it only produces Phione, which is generally not considered a true Legendary Pokémon.
3. What Pokémon cannot be bred?
“Baby” Pokémon like Pichu, Cleffa, Igglybuff, and other pre-evolved forms cannot produce eggs. Furthermore, Pokémon in the Undiscovered Egg Group and Ditto with another Ditto cannot be bred.
4. Can two Dittos breed?
Ditto cannot breed with another Ditto. This is due to restrictions within the game mechanics that prevent members of the same Egg Group from breeding with each other.
5. Can you breed a Mew?
No, you cannot breed a Mew. Similar to Arceus, Mew is in the Undiscovered Egg Group, preventing it from breeding with any Pokémon, including Ditto.
6. Can you get an Arceus egg?
No, you cannot obtain an Arceus egg in any Pokémon game. Arceus cannot be bred. And in games like Pokémon Legends: Arceus, there isn’t even a way to get any type of Pokémon eggs.
7. How can you get Arceus legally?
Arceus is typically obtained through special in-game events or promotions. The availability of these events varies depending on the specific game.
8. What made Arceus egg?
According to Pokémon lore, Arceus created the universe and all other Pokémon. The concept of Arceus laying an egg is more metaphorical than literal, reflecting its role as the progenitor of all Pokémon.
9. What is Mewthree?
Mewthree is a hypothetical or fan-created Pokémon, not an officially recognized one in the main series games or anime. It sometimes appears in fan theories or works of fiction.
10. Is Ditto a failed Mew?
This is a popular fan theory that suggests Ditto is the result of failed attempts to clone Mew. While the theory is widely circulated, The Pokémon Company has not confirmed or denied it. You can learn more about game creation theories and design principles from resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
11. Can two Legendaries breed?
No, in general, Legendary Pokémon cannot breed. They belong to the Undiscovered Egg Group.
12. Can you breed for Gigantamax?
While Pokémon that can Gigantamax can produce eggs, they cannot pass down the G-Max factor to their offspring through breeding.
13. Can Lunala breed?
No, Lunala is a Legendary Pokémon and belongs to the Undiscovered Egg Group, making it impossible to breed.
14. Can you breed Mimikyu?
Yes, Mimikyu can be bred. This allows players to influence the nature and IVs (Individual Values) of the hatched Mimikyu.
15. Is Grimer a failed Ditto?
The connection between Grimer and Ditto is yet another interesting theory that has gained popularity among Pokemon fans. The details of this connection are not something that Game Freak has either confirmed or denied.
Conclusion
While the prospect of breeding the “God Pokémon” Arceus might be appealing, the game mechanics and lore firmly prevent this from happening. The exclusion of breeding in Pokémon Legends: Arceus represents a significant departure from previous games, shifting the focus towards exploration, catching, and completing research tasks. Understanding these constraints can help players better navigate the world of Pokémon and appreciate the unique challenges and opportunities presented by each game.