Does Anyone Have All Pokémon GO? The Elusive Completionist Dream
The short answer is: no, no one definitively has all Pokémon in Pokémon GO, in the strictest sense of the word. While some players, like Nick Johnson, have achieved legendary status for catching every available Pokémon at a certain point in time, Pokémon GO is a constantly evolving game. New Pokémon are frequently added, released through special events, or locked behind regional barriers. This perpetual addition ensures that the “all” target is a moving one, forever out of reach.
The Myth of the Complete Pokédex in Pokémon GO
Let’s break down why completing the Pokédex in Pokémon GO is such a herculean, and arguably impossible, task.
- Constant Additions: The core issue is that Niantic, the game’s developer, regularly introduces new generations of Pokémon, new forms, and new variants. Just when a dedicated player thinks they are close to catching them all, a new update drops, adding dozens or even hundreds of new creatures to the roster.
- Regional Exclusives: Some Pokémon are only available in specific geographic regions. Completing the Pokédex requires extensive travel (or clever trading with players around the globe) to obtain these regional exclusives.
- Event-Locked Pokémon: Many powerful and desirable Pokémon are only available during limited-time events. If a player misses an event, they might have to wait months or even years for another opportunity to catch that specific Pokémon. Certain quests may also be only be offered for a short period of time.
- Mythical Pokémon and Special Research: Mythical Pokémon are often obtained through Special Research tasks, which are time-consuming and may require significant in-game effort. Furthermore, some are only accessible once per account, and often only after lengthy gameplay requirements, adding to the challenge.
- Trading and Collaboration: While some Pokémon are exclusive to raids that can be remotely entered, some Pokémon require trading in order to evolve. You can only trade with people nearby, so you need to be strategic about it.
Ultimately, the challenge of Pokémon GO and capturing them all is always present. But this is the fun of it. The game developers are constantly raising the bar.
The Illusion of Achievement
Despite the ongoing nature of the game, some players have indeed achieved incredible feats in Pokémon GO. The key is to understand what constitutes “completion” in a given context.
- Catching All Available Pokémon: Many players track their progress based on the Pokémon that are currently available in the game. When they’ve caught one of each of those, they can consider it a job well done.
- Completing Specific Pokédex Categories: The Pokédex is organized into different categories, such as Regional Pokédexes and Event Pokédexes. Some players focus on completing specific categories, which can be a more manageable goal.
- Reaching Level 50 and Maxing Out Pokémon: Some players shift focus to leveling up and powering up their favorite Pokémon after they’ve collected most. Leveling up requires a lot of experience and some achievements. It may require some purchases.
The constant evolution of Pokémon GO makes truly catching them all near impossible. However, setting goals and achieving new heights is a great way to enjoy the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pokémon GO Completion
What happens when you catch all 151 Pokémon in the original game?
If a trainer manages to capture all 151 Pokemon – minus Mew – they receive an in-game diploma from GAME FREAK. While an unsubstantial award, it does imbue players with a sense of accomplishment.
Why doesn’t Pokémon GO have all Pokémon?
The primary reason is that Pokémon GO follows a staggered release schedule. This keeps players engaged and allows developers to manage the game’s content over time. Currently, a handful of Pokémon from Legends: Arceus are still waiting for their chance to join the augmented reality of Pokémon GO, but mostly the missing Pokémon are those that have not had events yet or those who were introduced with Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
Is it possible to complete the Pokédex in Pokémon GO?
Anyone who has managed to obtain every regional (by traveling, trading, or any other means), every Mythical Pokemon, every Legendary, and all the Pokemon that are locked behind events, quests, seasons, or anything else, will have 828 Pokémon listed as “caught” in their Pokédex. However, given that some have yet to have a chance to catch all available Pokémon, many more Pokémon will likely be available.
Why is Mew number 151 in the Pokédex?
Due to the success of the experiment on April 15, 1996, Game Freak announced a contest to publicly release Mew to 151 winners, with the number referencing the number of Pokemon during that generation and Mew’s Pokedex number.
What is the highest Pokémon catch rate in Pokémon GO?
The highest catch rate in the game is a 43.9% chance to capture from full health with a normal Poke Ball for common Pokémon like Caterpie, Weedle, Pidgey, and Rattata.
What are some strategies for catching rare Pokémon in Pokémon GO?
- Participate in events: Events often increase the spawn rates of specific Pokémon.
- Use Incense and Lure Modules: These items attract Pokémon to your location.
- Pay attention to weather boosts: Certain Pokémon are more likely to appear in specific weather conditions.
- Join local Pokémon GO communities: Other players can share tips and information about rare spawns.
Is Pokémon GO still popular in 2024?
Yes, Pokémon GO remains a popular mobile game with a dedicated player base. Pokémon GO Fest takes over August 2023 with a month packed with events!
Why did Niantic skip Galar when introducing new Pokémon?
Pokémon Go devs justify skipping Galar for relevancy with Paldea additions.
Is trading the only way to get certain Pokémon in Pokémon GO?
While trading is essential for obtaining regional exclusives and some evolutionary Pokémon, most Pokémon can be caught in the wild, during events, or through raids.
How does Pokémon GO keep the game fresh and engaging?
Niantic regularly updates Pokémon GO with new features, events, and challenges. This constant stream of content helps keep the game fresh and prevents players from getting bored. You can learn more about game engagement strategies from sources like the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Can Pokémon GO be considered educational?
Believe it or not, Pokémon GO can offer some educational benefits. The game encourages players to explore their surroundings, learn about different environments, and socialize with other players.
What are the benefits of being an active Pokémon GO player?
Being an active Pokémon GO player can provide numerous benefits, including increased physical activity, social interaction, and cognitive stimulation.
What is the purpose of Pokemon Go?
The goal of Pokémon GO is to explore the real world and discover Pokémon while visiting places. The game encourages players to walk and go to various locations.
How do you get coins in Pokémon GO?
- Defend Gyms: Place your Pokémon in Gyms and earn PokéCoins over time.
- Complete Daily Tasks: Some daily tasks reward you with PokéCoins.
- Special Events and Research: Occasionally, events and special research tasks will offer PokéCoins as rewards.
- Purchasing Directly: You can purchase PokéCoins in the in-game store using real money.
Can you play Pokémon Go forever?
Yes, you can play Pokémon GO as long as you want to continue playing. The game is still supported and updated to the latest iOS and Android software.
The Joy of the Journey, Not Just the Destination
While the dream of truly completing the Pokédex in Pokémon GO might be perpetually out of reach, the journey is what truly matters. The thrill of the hunt, the camaraderie of raiding with friends, the joy of discovering a new Pokémon in an unexpected location – these are the experiences that make Pokémon GO such a captivating and enduring game. So, instead of focusing solely on catching all the Pokémon, embrace the adventure, set achievable goals, and enjoy the ride.