Cracking the Code: Converting Candy to XL Candy in Pokémon GO
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So, you’re itching to power up your Pokémon beyond level 40, huh? That means you’re on the hunt for Candy XL. While catching Pokémon, participating in events, and hatching eggs are primary sources, there’s another, albeit less efficient, method: converting your regular Candy into Candy XL. Here’s the lowdown: you can convert 100 regular Candy into 1 Candy XL. Yes, it’s a steep price, but sometimes, when you’re swimming in common Pokémon Candy, it’s a viable option.
The Nitty-Gritty of Conversion
The conversion process itself is straightforward. Simply navigate to the Pokémon you want to power up, and if you have enough regular Candy, the option to convert will appear when you try to power up beyond level 40. The game does the math for you, so you’ll know exactly how many Candy will be sacrificed for that precious Candy XL.
It’s crucial to understand that this isn’t the most resource-friendly method. Consider it a last resort when you’re desperate to reach that next power-up level and are overflowing with regular Candy. Otherwise, focus on accumulating Candy XL through gameplay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Candy XL Conversion
1. Is converting Candy to XL Candy worth it?
Generally, no. Converting Candy to XL Candy is not an optimal way to farm XL Candies, as it requires 100 Candy for 1 XL Candy. It takes 296 XL Candy to power up a Pokémon from level 40 to 50, which translates to 29,600 regular Candy. Only consider this if you have a massive surplus of Candy for a specific Pokémon and are close to a power-up goal.
2. How does the Candy to Candy XL conversion work?
At the cost of 100 regular Candy, players receive one XL Candy. Given that regular Candy is still needed for evolving and lower-level power-ups, this is not recommended unless players have an excessive amount of regular Candy in their inventory.
3. When can I start converting Candy to XL Candy?
You can only convert Candy to Candy XL once you are Trainer Level 40 or higher. Before reaching that milestone, the option simply won’t be available. Keep grinding those levels! However, starting with the Season of GO, players can start earning XL Candies once they hit level 31.
4. Is there a limit to how much Candy I can convert to XL Candy?
There isn’t a specific daily or overall limit coded into the game. As long as you have the required amount of regular Candy, you can convert as much as you want (or, rather, as much as you can afford).
5. Are there any tricks to get more XL Candy from converting?
Unfortunately, no. The conversion rate is fixed at 100:1. There are no items, bonuses, or special events that currently affect this rate.
6. What’s the best way to get Candy XL besides converting?
The most efficient methods for acquiring Candy XL include:
- Catching Pokémon: Higher-level Pokémon have a higher chance of dropping Candy XL.
- Hatching Eggs: Higher-distance eggs (10km, 12km) yield more Candy XL.
- Trading Pokémon: Trading Pokémon with friends can occasionally grant Candy XL.
- Walking with your Buddy: Walking with your Buddy Pokémon gives you a chance of receiving XL Candy from walking a certain distance with your Buddy.
- Special Events: Keep an eye out for events that boost Candy XL drop rates.
7. Does the Pokémon’s rarity affect the Candy XL conversion cost?
No. The conversion cost is always 100 regular Candy for 1 Candy XL, regardless of whether the Pokémon is common, rare, or legendary.
8. Can I convert Rare Candy into Rare Candy XL?
No, Rare Candy cannot be directly converted into Rare Candy XL. Rare Candy can be used in place of regular Candy when powering up or evolving a Pokémon, and then that regular Candy can be converted.
9. Is there an XL Candy glitch in Pokemon Go?
Yes, there was a Pokemon GO XL Candy duplication glitch in the past. However, Niantic addressed and fixed it, and players caught exploiting it faced bans. Do not attempt to use any exploits; it’s not worth losing your account. The best way to level up standard wild Pokemon to level 50 is by catching as many of them as possible and transferring them to Professor Willow.
10. What determines how much XL Candy I get from catching Pokémon?
Several factors influence the amount of XL Candy you receive when catching Pokémon:
- Pokémon Level: Higher-level Pokémon (those with higher CP) are more likely to award XL Candy.
- Weather Boost: Weather-boosted Pokémon may have an increased chance of dropping XL Candy.
- Event Bonuses: Some events may temporarily increase XL Candy drop rates.
11. Why is XL Candy so hard to get?
XL Candy is designed to be a late-game resource, encouraging long-term engagement and dedicated gameplay. Rare XL Candy exists in the game, but is incredibly hard to acquire, as it seems to drop only when levelling up past level 40, with just a couple per level. Making it readily available would diminish the sense of accomplishment associated with powering up Pokémon to their maximum potential.
12. Can I trade for XL Candy even if I’m below level 40?
While you might receive Candy XL in trades before reaching level 40, it will be wiped from your account once you reach level 40. So, focus on leveling up first!
13. What should I do with my excess Candy before I can convert it to XL Candy?
Before level 40, focus on evolving Pokémon to gain XP and fill out your Pokédex. You can also use Candy to power up your best Pokémon to make them stronger for raids and battles. Don’t waste Candy unnecessarily, but don’t hoard it indefinitely either.
14. Does using a Pinap Berry affect my chances of getting XL Candy?
No, using a Pinap Berry only increases the amount of regular Candy you receive. It does not affect the chances of obtaining XL Candy.
15. Are there any advantages to converting Candy to XL Candy over other methods?
The primary advantage is immediate gratification. If you need just a few more XL Candy to power up a Pokémon and are sitting on a mountain of regular Candy, conversion can be a quick solution. However, in the long run, focusing on catching, hatching, and trading is a more sustainable strategy.
Final Thoughts
Converting regular Candy to XL Candy is a tool to be used judiciously. Think of it as a tactical option rather than a primary farming method. Understanding the mechanics and weighing the costs will help you make informed decisions and optimize your Pokémon GO experience. Remember to stay informed about game updates and events, as these can significantly impact the availability of XL Candy.
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