Unlocking the Secrets of XL Candy Conversion in Pokémon GO: A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, you can convert regular candy into XL candy in Pokémon GO, but it comes at a steep price. Specifically, you can exchange 100 regular candies for 1 XL candy. Whether or not this is a worthwhile endeavor depends entirely on your specific circumstances within the game. This guide will delve into the nuances of XL candy conversion, offering insights into when and why you might consider this option, along with answers to some frequently asked questions.
Understanding XL Candy: Powering Up Beyond Level 40
XL Candy is a crucial resource for trainers looking to maximize the potential of their Pokémon in Pokémon GO. Unlike regular candy, which is primarily used for evolving and powering up Pokémon to level 40, XL Candy allows you to power up Pokémon from level 40 to level 50. This significantly boosts their CP (Combat Power), HP (Hit Points), and overall effectiveness in battles, raids, and Gym defense. Obtaining XL Candy is essential for competitive players aiming to have the strongest possible teams.
The Conversion Conundrum: Is It Worth It?
The ability to convert regular candy into XL candy seems appealing on the surface, particularly when you have an abundance of a specific Pokémon’s candy. However, the 100:1 conversion rate makes it a costly proposition. Consider this: powering up a Pokémon from level 40 to level 50 requires approximately 296 XL Candy. Converting regular candy would necessitate a staggering 29,600 regular candies for just one Pokémon!
Therefore, converting candy to XL Candy is generally not an optimal way to farm XL Candies. It’s best reserved for situations where you are sitting on an enormous surplus of candies for a particular Pokémon – perhaps one that frequently spawns in your area or during Community Days. If you have thousands of candies and are desperate to boost a specific Pokémon to its maximum potential, then the conversion option becomes more palatable.
Alternatives to Candy Conversion
Given the high cost of conversion, exploring alternative methods for acquiring XL Candy is almost always preferable. These methods include:
- Catching Pokémon: Catching Pokémon remains the most consistent way to obtain XL Candy. The higher the Pokémon’s level in the wild, the greater the chance of receiving XL Candy.
- Trading Pokémon: Trading Pokémon with friends offers a chance for both players to receive XL Candy. The further the distance between the locations where the Pokémon were caught, the higher the chance of obtaining XL Candy.
- Transferring Pokémon: Transferring Pokémon to Professor Willow offers a chance to get XL Candy.
- Hatching Pokémon Eggs: Hatching Pokémon Eggs also has a chance to provide XL Candy.
- Walking with a Buddy Pokémon: Walking a Buddy Pokémon can reward you with XL Candy, particularly for Pokémon with longer walking distances to earn regular candy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About XL Candy
1. Can you convert XL candy to regular candy?
No, you cannot convert XL candy back into regular candy. The conversion process is one-way only – from regular candy to XL candy. This reinforces the need to carefully consider whether converting is the right decision before proceeding.
2. When can I start getting XL Candy?
Initially, XL Candy was only available to players level 40 and above. However, Niantic changed this, and now players can start earning XL candy once they reach level 31.
3. How many candies is an XL candy worth?
In terms of conversion, one XL candy is equivalent to 100 regular candies. However, in terms of its impact on a Pokémon’s power, an XL candy is far more valuable than 100 regular candies, as it allows you to surpass the level 40 cap.
4. How does the distance affect XL Candy drops when trading?
The greater the distance between the locations where the traded Pokémon were caught, the higher the chance of receiving XL Candy. A trade distance of less than 10km will reward a Candy XL roughly 10% of the time.
5. Is there a Pokémon GO XL candy cheat?
There have been exploits in the past, such as leaving the game running overnight to farm XL Candy, but Niantic actively bans players who use such cheats. It is best to stick to legitimate methods of acquiring XL Candy.
6. What are the odds of getting a rare candy XL?
Rare XL Candy is extremely difficult to acquire. It primarily drops when leveling up past level 40, with only a few rewarded per level. There are no reliable methods to increase the odds of obtaining Rare XL Candy.
7. Can XL Candy evolve Pokémon?
No, XL Candy cannot be used for evolution. Evolution requires regular candy specific to the Pokémon’s evolution line. XL Candy is solely used for powering up Pokémon beyond level 40.
8. What is Rare Candy in Pokemon Go level 100?
If a Rare Candy is used on a level 100 Pokémon that evolves by leveling up and currently meets its evolution requirements, it will evolve (without gaining a level).
9. Can you get XL Candy by walking your buddy?
Yes, walking with your Buddy Pokémon gives you a chance of receiving XL Candy. The distance required to earn candy varies depending on the Pokémon.
10. What are the fastest buddies to earn candy?
Pokémon that require only 1 km to earn a candy are the fastest buddies to earn candy. Examples include Caterpie, Pikachu, Magikarp, and Wailmer.
11. Can you turn Pokémon into candy?
Yes, you can transfer Pokémon to Professor Willow in exchange for regular candy. This is a common practice to manage Pokémon storage and acquire candies for evolving and powering up other Pokémon.
12. How many candies do Magikarp and Wailmer need to evolve?
Magikarp and Wailmer each need 400 candies to evolve into Gyarados and Wailord, respectively.
13. What does level 40 mean in Pokémon GO?
Reaching level 40 in Pokémon GO signifies a major milestone. Players receive a substantial amount of rewards upon hitting level 40, including Ultra Balls, Max Potions, and other useful items. Level 40 used to be the highest level in the game, but it has since been increased to level 50.
14. Are shiny Pokemon stronger?
No, shiny Pokémon are not inherently stronger than their non-shiny counterparts. The shiny status is purely cosmetic. Focus on IVs (Individual Values) to determine a Pokémon’s battle potential.
15. Are XXL Pokémon rare?
Yes, XXL Pokémon are considered quite rare. They are rarer than seeing a 10k Pokemon check. IV’s are the keys to Pokemon performance in battle.
The Bottom Line: Strategic XL Candy Acquisition
While converting regular candy to XL candy is an option in Pokémon GO, it is generally not the most efficient way to acquire this valuable resource. Prioritize catching Pokémon, trading with friends, participating in events, and walking with your Buddy Pokémon to maximize your XL Candy gains. Reserve candy conversion for instances where you have an overwhelming surplus of candies and are willing to sacrifice a significant amount for a small XL Candy return. By understanding the mechanics of XL Candy and employing strategic acquisition methods, you can build a powerful team of level 50 Pokémon and dominate the competitive landscape of Pokémon GO.
Understanding the intricacies of gameplay and strategic decision-making in games like Pokémon GO can be fascinating. For those interested in delving deeper into the educational aspects of gaming, explore the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.