Can You Get a 100 IV Zygarde in Pokémon GO? A Deep Dive

Yes, absolutely! You can get a 100 IV Zygarde (a “hundo”) in Pokémon GO. However, it’s a process that involves understanding the mechanics of how Zygarde is obtained, evolved, and potentially traded (if and when Niantic enables Zygarde trading). This article will walk you through everything you need to know about acquiring a perfect Zygarde, addressing common misconceptions and offering helpful tips. It also highlights the importance of understanding game mechanics, a concept also explored by the Games Learning Society as they investigate how games influence learning.

Understanding Zygarde’s Mechanics in Pokémon GO

Zygarde, introduced as part of the Gen 6 Legendary trio alongside Xerneas and Yveltal, is unique due to its form-changing ability. Unlike most Pokémon that evolve through traditional methods, Zygarde evolves by collecting Zygarde Cells and absorbing them into the Zygarde Cube. There are three distinct forms:

• Zygarde 10% Forme: This is the form you initially obtain through the Special Research storyline.
• Zygarde 50% Forme: Achieved by collecting 50 Zygarde Cells and using them to transform Zygarde.
• Zygarde Complete Forme: Requires a total of 250 Zygarde Cells.

The initial Zygarde you receive is not guaranteed to be a hundo. Therefore, the quest for a 100 IV Zygarde involves obtaining multiple Zygardes, hoping one will have perfect IVs, or relying on future trade mechanics, if available.

The Role of Routes and Zygarde Cells

The primary method of acquiring Zygarde Cells is by following Routes. Routes are player-created paths that you can follow in-game. When walking a Route, there’s a chance a glowing green-yellowish icon will appear – that’s a Zygarde Cell! Collecting these cells is crucial for evolving your Zygarde into its stronger forms.

However, the process isn’t always straightforward. Many players have reported difficulty finding Zygarde Cells. Several factors can influence your success rate:

• Route Length and Quality: Longer Routes may offer more opportunities for Cells to spawn.
• Game Stability: Restarting the game has been suggested to potentially increase Cell spawn rates.
• Niantic’s Updates: Niantic is aware of the issues with Zygarde Cells and Routes and continues to work on improvements.

The Current Absence of Zygarde Trading

Currently, Zygarde cannot be traded. This significantly complicates the pursuit of a hundo. Trading is typically a key method for obtaining Pokémon with higher IVs, especially through Lucky Trades, which offer a 1 in 64 chance of resulting in a hundo. Without trading, your only option is to acquire multiple Zygardes through research tasks (if Niantic releases more in the future) and hope for the best.

The Hundo Hunt: Strategies and Considerations

Since you can’t trade for a Zygarde, the path to a 100 IV specimen relies solely on acquiring multiple Zygardes and maximizing your opportunities to collect Zygarde Cells. Here’s a strategic breakdown:

1. Complete the Special Research: Ensure you’ve finished the Special Research storyline that rewards you with your first Zygarde. This is the foundation for your future endeavors.

2. Master Route Exploration: Familiarize yourself with the Route feature. Identify popular Routes in your area or create your own if necessary. Experiment with different Routes and observe which ones seem to yield more frequent Zygarde Cell spawns.

3. Optimize Your Walking Sessions: Dedicate specific time slots to walking Routes, focusing solely on Cell collection. Pay close attention to your surroundings and be vigilant for the small, glowing green-yellowish icons.

4. Restart Your Game Regularly: As some players have suggested, restarting the game before and during your Route explorations might improve Cell spawn rates. While not scientifically proven, it’s a low-effort tactic worth trying.

5. Patience is Key: Acquiring enough Zygarde Cells to evolve Zygarde to its Complete Forme, let alone finding a hundo, is a long-term commitment. Don’t get discouraged by initial setbacks.

6. Keep Up With News and Game Updates: Check frequently about upcoming events, research tasks, news and game updates. New opportunities to get more Zygarde or Zygarde Cells might arise that will help you in your hunt for a Hundo.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Zygarde in Pokémon GO

1. Is it confirmed that Zygarde trading will never be implemented?

No, Niantic has not explicitly stated that Zygarde trading will never be implemented. The absence of trading currently makes obtaining a hundo significantly more challenging, but future updates could change this.

2. How many Zygarde Cells do I need in total to get Zygarde Complete Forme?

You need a total of 250 Zygarde Cells to evolve Zygarde from its 10% Forme to its Complete Forme. 50 cells to get it to 50% Forme, then 200 additional to complete it.

3. What is the best strategy for finding Zygarde Cells?

The best strategy is to explore Routes regularly, preferably longer ones, and to restart your game frequently. Pay close attention to your surroundings while walking and be patient.

4. Are Zygarde Cells guaranteed to spawn on every Route?

No, Zygarde Cells are not guaranteed to spawn on every Route. It’s a matter of chance, which is why consistent exploration is crucial.

5. Does weather affect Zygarde Cell spawn rates?

There is no confirmed evidence that weather affects Zygarde Cell spawn rates. However, weather does affect the spawn rates of other Pokémon types.

6. What is the max CP for Zygarde Complete Forme?

The max CP for Zygarde Complete Forme is 4208 in Pokémon GO.

7. Is Zygarde a strong Pokémon in Pokémon GO?

Yes, Zygarde Complete Forme is a powerful Pokémon, particularly in PvP battles like Ultra League and Master League.

8. What are Zygarde’s weaknesses?

Zygarde Complete Forme, being a Dragon and Ground-type, is weak to Ice, Dragon, and Fairy-type moves.

9. How do I create a Route in Pokémon GO?

To create a Route, you need to be at least level 37 and have been selected to test the ability to create routes. Once you are in a location you want to use as the starting point of the route, tap the Main Menu button. Then, tap Routes. Finally, follow the on-screen instructions to get started.

10. Can I get a Shiny Zygarde in Pokémon GO?

Currently, Shiny Zygarde is not available in Pokémon GO. Serebii.net still lists shiny Zygarde as illegal.

11. What level do I need to be to follow Routes?

You need to be at least Level 5 to be able to follow Routes in Pokémon GO.

12. Can I use an Incense or Lure Module to increase Zygarde Cell spawn rates?

No, Incense and Lure Modules will not increase the spawn rates of Zygarde Cells. They only affect the spawn rates of regular Pokémon.

13. Where do I find the Zygarde Cube?

You obtain the Zygarde Cube by completing step three of the Special Research tasks associated with Zygarde. This will happen once you’ve obtained the first Zygarde.

14. What is the best moveset for Zygarde in Pokémon GO?

Zygarde’s best moveset in Pokémon GO is Dragon Tail and Outrage.

15. How do I know if I’ve found a Zygarde Cell?

A tiny green swirl of sparkles will appear close by the Route. It’s translucent and can be difficult to spot, so pay close attention!

Conclusion: The Long Road to a Perfect Zygarde

While the journey to obtaining a 100 IV Zygarde in Pokémon GO is currently challenging due to the lack of trading and the scarcity of Zygarde Cells, it is certainly possible. By understanding the mechanics of Routes, diligently exploring them, and staying informed about future game updates, you can increase your chances of acquiring this powerful and elusive Pokémon in its perfect form. Just remember, persistence and a bit of luck are key!

Exploring these game mechanics can also be considered a form of learning, and resources like GamesLearningSociety.org showcase the connection between games and educational principles.