Can You Forget Frustration in Pokemon GO? A Comprehensive Guide
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Yes, you can forget Frustration in Pokemon GO, but there’s a major catch! This powerful, yet undesirable, move is exclusive to Shadow Pokémon and cannot be removed under normal circumstances. You can only remove it using a Charged TM during specific Team GO Rocket Takeover events. Think of these events as your golden opportunity to revamp your Shadow Pokémon’s move sets and unleash their full potential.
Understanding Frustration and Shadow Pokémon
What is Frustration?
Frustration is a Charged Attack that all Shadow Pokémon are stuck with upon capture. It’s generally considered a poor move in terms of damage output and utility. It’s a frustrating (pun intended!) roadblock standing between you and a powerful battler.
Why is Frustration a Problem?
Shadow Pokémon receive a significant attack bonus (20%), making them potent attackers. However, this benefit is often overshadowed by the underwhelming Frustration move. Replacing Frustration with a better Charged Attack can dramatically improve a Shadow Pokémon’s performance in raids, Gym battles, and PvP.
Team GO Rocket Takeover Events: Your Window of Opportunity
Team GO Rocket Takeover events are periodic occurrences in Pokemon GO where Team GO Rocket Grunts, Leaders (Sierra, Cliff, and Arlo), and Giovanni appear more frequently. Crucially, these events also provide a temporary window where you can use a Charged TM to replace Frustration on your Shadow Pokémon. Be sure to check the official Pokemon GO news and social media channels to stay informed about these events.
How to Remove Frustration During a Takeover Event
- Locate Your Shadow Pokémon: Find the Shadow Pokémon you wish to improve.
- Access the Pokémon’s Profile: Tap on the Pokémon to view its details.
- Use a Charged TM: Navigate to the Charged Attack section and use a Charged TM. If the event is active, you will be able to replace Frustration with another Charged Attack from the Pokémon’s movepool.
- Confirm the Change: The game will prompt you to confirm your decision. Once you proceed, Frustration will be gone, replaced by a new, hopefully better, move.
Strategic Pokémon Choices: Which Shadows to Prioritize?
Not all Shadow Pokémon are created equal. Some benefit more from removing Frustration than others. Generally, focus on Shadow Pokémon with high attack stats and access to powerful Charged Attacks that align with their roles. This helps to maximize the 20% damage bonus made available to Shadows. Some of the most commonly recommended include Shadow versions of:
- Nidoqueen
- Machamp
- Swampert
- Abomasnow
- Venusaur
- Beedrill
- Lapras
- Flygon
Also, do your research! Community resources and battle simulators can assist in evaluating the potential of specific Shadow Pokémon after Frustration is removed. Remember, Shadow Pokémon can be left at Gyms and assigned as a Buddy just like regular/Purified Pokemon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to forgetting Frustration in Pokemon GO, providing further insights and helpful tips.
1. Can I Remove Frustration Outside of Team GO Rocket Takeover Events?
No. Frustration can only be removed during Team GO Rocket Takeover events. Attempting to use a Charged TM at any other time will not allow you to change the move.
2. Can I Use an Elite Charged TM to Remove Frustration?
Yes, you can use an Elite Charged TM to remove Frustration during a Takeover event. However, it’s generally not recommended, as Elite Charged TMs are rare and valuable resources best saved for teaching exclusive or Legacy moves.
3. Will Frustration Ever Return to My Pokémon?
No. Once Frustration is removed, it’s gone for good. Your Pokémon will not relearn it. But please keep in mind that your Pokémon can’t relearn Frustration.
4. Is it Better to Purify or Keep a Shadow Pokémon?
This depends on the Pokémon and your goals. Purifying a Shadow Pokémon increases its IVs but removes the 20% attack bonus. Shadow Pokémon are often preferred for their increased damage output in raids and battles. However, Purified Pokémon are cheaper to power up and evolve, and learn the move Return. The 2 IV increase is often dwarfed by the Shadow damage boost. There are exceptions, but the boost is largely preferred.
5. What is Return?
Return is a Charged Attack that a Pokémon learns upon purification. Its effectiveness varies; it can be useful in certain PvP scenarios but is generally not as desirable as other Charged Attacks for most situations. Those that are partaking in PvP may get a better use out of Return, as it does more damage there than it does in Gym and Team GO Rocket battles. Another reason players may want to keep Return is for chipping away at Protect Shields.
6. Are Shadow Pokémon Stronger Than Regular Pokémon?
Generally, yes. The 20% attack bonus makes Shadow Pokémon more powerful attackers than their regular counterparts. This is particularly noticeable in raids and battles against Team GO Rocket.
7. Should I Evolve My Shadow Pokémon Before or After Removing Frustration?
It’s usually best to remove Frustration before evolving. This ensures that the evolved form also has a desirable Charged Attack.
8. What Happens if I Miss a Team GO Rocket Takeover Event?
You’ll have to wait for the next one! These events typically occur every few months, so be patient and stay informed.
9. Can I Trade Shadow Pokémon?
No. Shadow Pokémon cannot be traded to other players.
10. How Do I Find Team GO Rocket Grunts and Leaders?
Team GO Rocket Grunts appear at PokéStops that have been invaded. Team GO Rocket Leaders can be found after collecting six Mysterious Components and crafting a Rocket Radar. Giovanni, the boss, requires a Super Rocket Radar, obtained through Special Research.
11. Can I Use a Fast TM to Change a Shadow Pokémon’s Fast Attack?
Yes, you can use a Fast TM to change a Shadow Pokémon’s Fast Attack at any time. This is not restricted to Team GO Rocket Takeover events.
12. Is it Worth Keeping Shadow Pokémon with Low IVs?
This depends on the Pokémon. Even Shadow Pokémon with low IVs can be powerful attackers due to the attack bonus. However, if you have multiple Shadow Pokémon of the same species, prioritize the ones with better IVs. Shadow Pokemon that are Purified will sometimes have their Appraisal increased. It will also lose the Shadow Bonus effect. So, if a Shadow Pokemon is 0-stars but has decent Attacks and CP, it’s better to leave it unpurified for future battles.
13. Can Shadow Pokémon Learn Community Day Exclusive Moves?
Yes, Shadow Pokémon can learn Community Day exclusive moves when evolved during their respective Community Day events. This can create incredibly powerful combinations.
14. What is the Shadow Bonus Effect?
Shadow Pokemon that are Purified will sometimes have their Appraisal increased. It will also lose the Shadow Bonus effect.
15. Where can I find more information about Pokemon GO?
Besides the official Pokemon GO website, you can find a wealth of information and resources at Games Learning Society website. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more!
Conclusion: Mastering Shadow Pokémon
Removing Frustration is a crucial step in unlocking the full potential of your Shadow Pokémon in Pokemon GO. By understanding the timing of Team GO Rocket Takeover events and strategically using Charged TMs, you can transform your Shadow Pokémon into formidable assets for raids, battles, and more. So, keep an eye on the Pokemon GO news, prepare your Charged TMs, and get ready to unleash the power of your revitalized Shadow Pokémon!