Does Extra Small Pokémon Matter in Pokémon GO? An Expert’s Deep Dive
In the grand scheme of Pokémon GO, the burning question on many trainers’ minds is: Does extra small (XXS) Pokémon matter? The short answer is not really, but they’re cool and rare! While XXS Pokémon don’t directly influence combat performance or IVs (Individual Values), their existence adds a unique layer of collectibility and visual flair to the game. They trigger a special animation upon encounter, are ridiculously rare, and affect the Pokémon’s appearance as your buddy. The size is purely aesthetic; the IVs are still the most important, so don’t let a cute tiny ‘mon distract you from a great battle partner!
Unveiling the Mysteries of XXS Pokémon
For years, seasoned trainers have been obsessed with maximizing their teams for raids, gyms, and PvP battles. IVs, movesets, and type matchups reign supreme. However, the introduction of XXS and XXL sizes threw a curveball into the mix. Suddenly, Pokémon weren’t just about stats; they were about stature, too!
The Initial Disappointment: Size vs. Stats
Early on, many players hoped that size would correlate with stats. Perhaps larger Pokémon would have higher HP, or smaller ones would be faster? Alas, Niantic dashed those dreams. Size does not impact IVs, CP (Combat Power), or any other battle-relevant stat. A perfectly petite Pikachu is just as capable as a gargantuan one.
The Allure of Rarity: The XXS Factor
The true allure of XXS Pokémon lies in their rarity. Finding one is a badge of honor, a testament to dedication (or just dumb luck). The game even rewards you with a sparkling animation upon encountering an XXS or XXL Pokémon, similar to the ones seen when encountering a Shiny Pokémon, indicating its unique status.
Visual Appeal: XXS as Buddies
While their battle prowess remains unchanged, XXS Pokémon shine as buddies. Walking around with a comically small companion adds a delightful visual twist to the game. It can even provide in-game celebratory messages when you set a new record with the smallest Pokémon ever.
Beyond Aesthetics: The Completionist’s Dream
For completionists, collecting XXS and XXL Pokémon becomes a goal in itself. Filling out your Pokédex with these uniquely sized creatures adds another layer to the challenge. It is a way to enrich the game, turning your gameplay into more of a hunt than just battling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About XXS Pokémon
Here’s a comprehensive list of FAQs about XXS Pokémon, designed to address the most common questions and clear up any confusion:
1. Are XXS Pokémon weaker than regular Pokémon?
No, XXS Pokémon are not inherently weaker. Their CP and stats are determined by their IVs, just like any other Pokémon. The size designation is purely visual.
2. What are the odds of finding an XXS Pokémon?
XXS Pokémon are exceptionally rare. The estimated odds are approximately 1 in 31,500 encounters, making them rarer than many shiny Pokémon.
3. Does evolving an XXS Pokémon keep it XXS?
No, size is re-rolled upon evolution. An XXS Pokémon may evolve into a standard-sized, XL, or even XXL Pokémon. It’s all random.
4. Can legendary Pokémon be XXS?
Yes, Legendary Pokémon can be XXS, as well as mythical Pokémon. According to Niantic, XXL and XXS Pokemon are in the same tier as legendaries, Ultra Beasts, Shinies, and Mythicals.
5. Does size affect PvP battles?
No, size has no impact on PvP battles. Focus on IVs, movesets, and type matchups to succeed in the Go Battle League.
6. Are XS Pokémon the same as XXS?
No, XS (extra small) and XXS (extra extra small) are distinct size categories. XXS is rarer and smaller than XS.
7. Does the Youngster medal relate to XXS Pokémon?
The Youngster medal is based on the weight of Rattata, not their size category. It is unrelated to XXS status.
8. Can I search for XXS Pokémon in my storage?
Yes, you can search for XXS Pokémon using the search term “size:XXS”.
9. Do XXS Pokémon have lower CP values when caught?
Generally, smaller Pokémon tend to have lower CP values when encountered in the wild. However, this is simply a matter of probability, as CP is determined by level and IVs.
10. Is there a medal for collecting XXS Pokémon?
Currently, there is no dedicated medal for collecting XXS or XXL Pokémon. However, there are medals for catching different Pokémon types and milestones, which naturally increase with more catches.
11. Do purified Shadow Pokémon change size?
Purifying a Shadow Pokémon can alter its IVs, but it does not influence its size.
12. How do I increase my chances of finding an XXS Pokémon?
Unfortunately, there’s no guaranteed way to increase your odds. The best approach is to catch as many Pokémon as possible and hope for the best. Events and special research tasks may temporarily increase the spawn rates of specific Pokémon, giving you more opportunities.
13. Do XXL Pokémon stay XXL when evolved?
Do XXL Pokémon stay XXL when evolved? Height and weight change randomly upon evolution. Height and weight are at best cosmetic. They change no stats.
14. Why do people put small Pokémon in gyms?
Because even a weak pokemon will earn a few gold and points toward gym badges.
15. Did Pokemon go remove XL XS?
In the most recent update all pokemon had their xs/xl status removed from the weight category.
Final Verdict: XXS Pokémon are a Fun, Rare Collectible
XXS Pokémon don’t grant any competitive advantage. However, they are incredibly rare, visually appealing as buddies, and add a fun layer of challenge for completionist trainers. So, while they might not be game-changers, they certainly make Pokémon GO a little more delightful. Embrace the hunt for these tiny treasures, and remember that sometimes, the smallest things can bring the biggest joy.
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