Does Size Really Matter in Pokémon GO? Unveiling the Truth About XL and XS Pokémon
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So, does large or small Pokémon matter in Pokémon GO? The short answer is: it’s complicated. While the XXL and XXS designations themselves don’t directly translate to inherent stat advantages like higher CP (Combat Power) or better IVs (Individual Values), they do add a layer of depth and collection challenge to the game. The main importance of XL Candy is that it will allow you to level your Pokemon even further than before in Pokémon GO. Introduced alongside the level cap increase alongside the Go Beyond update and the Season of Celebration, it allows players to increase the CP of a Pokémon past the original Level 40 cap, all the way to Level 50. Let’s break down the nuances and explore what really matters when it comes to Pokémon size in the world of Pokémon GO.
Understanding Size Designations: XL, XS, XXL, and XXS
Pokémon GO categorizes Pokémon by size using designations like XL (Extra Large), XS (Extra Small), XXL (Extra Extra Large), and XXS (Extra Extra Small). Originally, these designations were loosely tied to height and weight. Now, with recent updates, the game tracks record holders for smallest, largest, lightest, and heaviest of each species. Catching these record-breaking Pokémon triggers a visual notification and updates your personal records within the game.
The Evolution of Size Perception
In the early days of Pokémon GO, there was speculation that XL Pokémon might have more HP (Hit Points) and that size could affect attack speed. While these claims were widely debated, they largely remain unproven and are generally discounted by the player base now. The consensus is that size designations are primarily for collection purposes.
Size as a Collection Mechanic
The current value of size in Pokémon GO lies in the challenge of finding and collecting the absolute largest and smallest specimens of each species. The introduction of XXL and XXS categories emphasizes this collection aspect. It provides an additional goal for players beyond simply catching high-CP or shiny Pokémon.
The Real Factors That Determine Pokémon Strength
Forget size for a moment and focus on what truly dictates a Pokémon’s performance in battles, raids, and Gym defenses:
- CP (Combat Power): This is a general measure of a Pokémon’s strength. Higher CP generally means a stronger Pokémon.
- IVs (Individual Values): These are hidden stats that range from 0 to 15 for Attack, Defense, and HP. Higher IVs mean a Pokémon has greater potential.
- Moveset: The combination of Fast and Charged Moves a Pokémon possesses significantly impacts its effectiveness in battle.
- Type Matchups: Understanding type advantages and disadvantages is crucial for success in Pokémon GO battles.
IVs: The Key to Potential
Individual Values (IVs) are arguably the most important factor in determining a Pokémon’s ultimate strength. A Pokémon with high IVs will always outperform one with low IVs, even if the latter has a slightly higher initial CP. This is why using appraisal tools and understanding how to interpret your Team Leader’s feedback is essential.
Movesets: Choosing the Right Attacks
A Pokémon’s moveset can make or break its performance. Some moves are simply better than others in terms of damage output, energy generation, and utility. Researching the best movesets for your Pokémon is crucial for optimizing their battle potential.
The Role of XL Candy
While the size of a Pokémon might not directly affect its stats, XL Candy does play a crucial role in maximizing a Pokémon’s CP. XL Candy allows trainers to power up their Pokémon beyond Level 40, pushing them to Level 50. This is essential for competing at the highest levels of Pokémon GO.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pokémon Size
Here are some commonly asked questions that shed more light on the issue of Pokémon size and its significance in Pokémon GO.
1. Are XXL Pokémon rarer than other sizes?
Yes, XXL and XXS Pokémon are significantly rarer than Pokémon of “normal” sizes. Finding one often requires checking a large number of Pokémon, making it a testament to dedication.
2. Does weight affect anything in Pokémon GO?
The weight of a Pokémon has no impact on its stats or battle performance. However, the game records the lightest and heaviest Pokémon you’ve caught for each species, adding to the collection aspect.
3. Is it better to evolve bigger Pokémon?
The size of a Pokémon is irrelevant when deciding whether to evolve it. Focus on the Pokémon’s CP, IVs, and potential moveset after evolution.
4. Should I keep multiple of the same Pokémon?
Keeping multiple Pokémon of the same species can be beneficial for a few reasons: building up Catch Combos, accumulating Candies for powering up and evolving, and having a diverse team with different movesets.
5. Does size affect stats in Pokemon?
No, the Pokemon’s size or weight does not affect its base stats, IVs, or EVs.
6. How do you appraise Pokemon?
To appraise a Pokémon: In Map View, tap the Main Menu icon, then Pokémon. Select a Pokémon, open the Menu, and tap Appraise. This provides feedback on its IVs.
7. What does heaviest Pokémon mean?
The “heaviest Pokémon” designation simply means you’ve caught the heaviest specimen of that species. It has no impact on gameplay, beyond updating your records.
8. Why are Pokémon weights so off?
Pokémon weights can seem arbitrary and inconsistent. This is largely due to artistic license and the desire to create a diverse range of Pokémon.
9. Is there a weight difference in Pokémon cards?
Yes, there can be slight weight differences in Pokémon cards due to factors like the presence of a code card or the type of card (e.g., foil vs. non-foil).
10. Are shiny Pokemon stronger?
Shiny Pokémon are not inherently stronger than their non-shiny counterparts. Their difference is purely cosmetic.
11. Do XL Pokémon have more HP?
While early speculation suggested XL Pokémon might have more HP, this has not been confirmed, and the current consensus is that size does not directly impact HP.
12. Did Pokemon go remove XL XS?
In a recent update, all pokemon had their xs/xl status removed from the weight category. We can now search for xs/xl pokemon but only as it pertains to height, which up to this point was far more rare.
13. What is the point of XXL or XXS Pokemon?
Catching XXS and XXL Pokémon updates the record if they are smaller, larger, lighter or heavier than the previously caught Pokémon of the same species. Each metric is tracked separately, so one Pokémon can update just one or all four metrics.
14. Are heavier and taller Pokemon better?
The height is correlated loosely with the weight. That is, taller Pokemon will have a tendency to weigh more and shorter Pokemon will generally weigh less. And meanwhile, the weight of your Pokemon is examined for tiny Rattata and large Magikarp badges— but that’s it. Nothing else useful comes from it.
15. Should I keep XL Pokemon go?
Size doesn’t matter in Pokémon GO, but Individual Values do. Focus on the strength of your team overall. You can keep any size Pokemon as long as you want!
The Beauty of Collection
Ultimately, the appeal of collecting XL, XS, XXL, and XXS Pokémon lies in the joy of completing your Pokédex in unique and challenging ways. It’s a testament to your dedication as a trainer and adds another layer of fun to the game.
Conclusion: Size is Just a Number
While size in Pokémon GO might not directly impact stats or battle performance, it offers a delightful layer of collection and personalization. Focus on CP, IVs, movesets, and type matchups to build a formidable team. Embrace the hunt for XXL and XXS Pokémon to add a fun and rewarding challenge to your Pokémon GO journey. Remember, the game is constantly evolving, so keep exploring and discovering new aspects of the Pokémon world!
If you’re interested in learning more about the educational and social aspects of gaming, be sure to visit the website of the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/, and check out their work in understanding how games can impact learning and development. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the adventure!