How to Get Cresselia in Pokémon GO: A Comprehensive Guide
Cresselia, the Psychic-type Legendary Pokémon, is a coveted addition to any Pokémon GO trainer’s roster. The primary method for obtaining Cresselia in Pokémon GO is by defeating it in Five-Star Raids. These raids are challenging Player vs. Environment (PvE) battles that require a well-coordinated team and strategic Pokémon choices to overcome. Once defeated, you’ll have a chance to catch Cresselia during the capture encounter. Note that Cresselia cannot be found in the wild or obtained through Special Research tasks.
Understanding Cresselia Raids
Identifying Cresselia Raids
Cresselia appears periodically in Five-Star Raids. Keep an eye on the in-game News, official Pokémon GO announcements, and community resources to know when Cresselia raids are active. These raids are visually represented by a special egg icon on top of a Gym, indicating a powerful raid boss is about to hatch.
Assembling Your Raid Team
Since Cresselia is a Psychic-type, you’ll want to build a team of Pokémon that exploit its weaknesses. The most effective types against Cresselia are Bug, Ghost, and Dark. Here are some excellent Pokémon to consider for your Cresselia raid team:
- Ghost: Gengar, Giratina (Origin Forme), Chandelure
- Dark: Darkrai, Tyranitar, Hydreigon
- Bug: Pheromosa, Genesect, Scizor
Prioritize Pokémon with high Attack stats and movesets that deal super-effective damage. Also, consider Pokémon with high bulk to withstand Cresselia’s powerful Psychic-type attacks.
Battling Cresselia
During the raid battle, coordinate with your team to maximize damage output and minimize losses. Watch out for Cresselia’s charge moves and dodge when possible to avoid taking excessive damage. Using Golden Razz Berries on your Pokémon can increase their survivability.
The Capture Encounter
After defeating Cresselia, you’ll have a limited number of Premier Balls to catch it. Here’s how to maximize your chances:
- Use Golden Razz Berries: These berries significantly increase your catch rate.
- Curveball Throws: Practice throwing curveballs consistently. They provide a catch rate bonus.
- Excellent Throws: Aim for Excellent throws by timing your throws when the target ring is small.
- Patience: Don’t rush your throws. Wait for Cresselia to settle down and aim carefully.
Shiny Cresselia
Shiny Cresselia is a rare and highly sought-after variant. While encountering a Shiny Cresselia is not guaranteed, defeating it in raids provides a chance for a shiny encounter. Some data indicates the odds of a shiny legendary in raids are approximately 1 in 20. Therefore, participating in multiple Cresselia raids will increase your chances of finding a Shiny Cresselia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cresselia in Pokémon GO
1. Can I find Cresselia in the wild in Pokémon GO?
No, Cresselia cannot be found in the wild in Pokémon GO. It is exclusively available through Five-Star Raids.
2. When was the last time Cresselia was in raids?
According to available data, Cresselia was last featured in Five-Star Raids from August 4, 2023, to August 16, 2023. Stay tuned for future announcements regarding its return.
3. Is Cresselia hard to catch in Pokémon GO?
Yes, like all Legendary Pokémon, Cresselia can be challenging to catch. Use Golden Razz Berries, Curveball Throws, and Excellent Throws to improve your chances.
4. What are the best counters for Cresselia in raids?
The best counters for Cresselia are Ghost, Dark, and Bug-type Pokémon with movesets that deal super-effective damage. Examples include Gengar, Darkrai, and Pheromosa.
5. What CP range should I expect for Cresselia after a raid?
After defeating Cresselia in a raid, you can expect the following CP ranges during the capture encounter:
- Normal Weather Conditions: 1555 – 1633 CP
- Windy Weather Conditions: 1944 – 2041 CP
Windy weather boosts Psychic-type Pokémon, leading to higher CP values.
6. Is Shiny Cresselia available in Pokémon GO?
Yes, Shiny Cresselia is available in Pokémon GO. Defeating Cresselia in raids provides a chance to encounter its shiny form.
7. What are the odds of encountering a Shiny Cresselia in a raid?
The odds of encountering a Shiny Legendary Pokémon in raids, including Shiny Cresselia, are estimated to be around 1 in 20.
8. How many people do I need to beat Cresselia in a raid?
With the right counters, a group of 3-5 well-prepared trainers can successfully defeat Cresselia in a raid.
9. Can Cresselia be obtained through Special Research tasks?
No, Cresselia cannot be obtained through Special Research tasks. Its availability is exclusively tied to Five-Star Raids.
10. What are Cresselia’s weaknesses and resistances?
- Weaknesses: Bug, Ghost, Dark
- Resistances: Psychic, Fighting
11. What is Cresselia’s gender?
Cresselia is an exclusively female Legendary Pokémon.
12. What is the 100% CP for Cresselia?
The 100% CP (perfect IV) for Cresselia in normal weather is 1633 CP, and in Windy weather, it is 2041 CP.
13. How can I get a Cresselia with a CP below 1500 for PvP?
To obtain a Cresselia with a CP below 1500 for PvP, you should trade with Ultra Friends. This provides a reasonable chance (around 19%) of getting a Cresselia with lower CP values, without incurring significant stardust costs.
14. What type of Pokémon is Cresselia?
Cresselia is a Psychic-type Legendary Pokémon.
15. Why is Cresselia often associated with Darkrai?
Cresselia and Darkrai are often associated as they represent contrasting forces: pleasant dreams (Cresselia) and nightmares (Darkrai). This connection is also highlighted in the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series, where they appear as opposing forces.
The Broader Context of Gaming and Learning
The mechanics of Pokémon GO, like understanding Cresselia’s weaknesses and strategizing raid battles, highlight the potential for games to enhance learning. The Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org, explores the intersection of games and education, demonstrating how interactive experiences can foster problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaborative skills. Pokémon GO, with its strategic depth and community engagement, is a prime example of how gaming can be both entertaining and educational.
Good luck on your quest to catch Cresselia in Pokémon GO!