The Elusive Hundo: Unveiling the Rarity of Perfect Appraisal Pokémon in Pokémon GO
So, you’re chasing that elusive perfect appraisal in Pokémon GO, huh? You’re not alone! Getting a Pokémon with 100% IVs (Individual Values), also known as a “hundo,” is one of the most sought-after achievements for dedicated trainers. But just how rare is it? In the wild, the base chance of encountering a perfect IV Pokémon is a staggering 1 in 4096, or approximately 0.0244%. However, that’s just the starting point. The rarity shifts significantly based on how you acquire the Pokémon.
Understanding Individual Values (IVs)
Before diving deeper into the rarity, let’s briefly clarify what IVs are. Every Pokémon in Pokémon GO has three IV stats: Attack, Defense, and HP. Each stat ranges from 0 to 15. A “hundo” is a Pokémon with perfect 15/15/15 IVs. These stats are hidden, but you can reveal them using the Appraisal feature, provided by your team leader (Candela, Blanche, or Spark). A perfect appraisal will show a full red bar for each stat and grant the Pokémon a 3-star rating with a red background, often referred to as a 4* Pokémon.
Factors Influencing Hundo Rarity
The base rarity of 1/4096 applies to wild Pokémon catches where IVs are truly random. However, various in-game mechanics improve your odds:
- Weather Boost: Weather-boosted Pokémon have a minimum IV of 4 in each stat, slightly increasing the probability of a hundo compared to entirely random wild spawns.
- Research Tasks: Pokémon obtained through Research Tasks have a higher IV floor, typically guaranteeing at least 10 in each stat, which dramatically boosts your chances of a perfect IV.
- Raids: Raid Bosses also benefit from the higher IV floor of 10, making a perfect IV more attainable compared to wild catches.
- Eggs: Similar to raids and research tasks, Pokémon hatched from eggs have a minimum IV of 10, significantly reducing the pool of possibilities and increasing hundo odds.
- Lucky Friends: Becoming Lucky Friends with another player guarantees a Lucky Trade, where both Pokémon traded have a minimum IV of 12 in each stat. This makes the hunt for hundos far easier.
- Purified Pokémon: Purifying a Shadow Pokémon adds +2 to each IV stat, meaning a 2-star Shadow Pokémon can potentially become a 3-star (and even a hundo) upon purification.
The Impact of Events
Niantic frequently hosts events that can influence hundo rarity. For example, events that increase Pokémon spawn rates or offer specific research tasks featuring certain Pokémon can provide more opportunities to find that perfect IV specimen. Keep an eye on official Pokémon GO announcements and community resources for updates.
Why Chase Hundos?
While a hundo may only provide a marginal stat increase compared to a Pokémon with high but not perfect IVs, the pursuit often boils down to:
- Completionism: For many, it’s about collecting the best possible version of their favorite Pokémon.
- Min-Maxing: Competitive players strive to maximize their Pokémon’s potential for raids, Gym battles, and PvP.
- Prestige: Owning a hundo is a badge of honor, showcasing dedication and a bit of luck.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the nuances of hundo hunting in Pokémon GO:
1. What exactly does “IV” stand for in Pokémon GO?
IV stands for Individual Values. These are hidden stats that affect a Pokémon’s Attack, Defense, and HP.
2. How can I check a Pokémon’s IVs in Pokémon GO?
Use the Appraisal feature. Tap the menu button in the lower right corner of a Pokémon’s profile, then tap “Appraise.” Your team leader will provide feedback on the Pokémon’s IVs. Pokémon Go also allows importing your Pokémon to an IV checker.
3. Is there an IV calculator I can use?
Yes, several IV calculators are available online and as third-party apps (use these at your own risk, as some may violate Niantic’s terms of service). They typically require you to input the Pokémon’s CP, HP, Stardust cost for powering up, and Appraisal feedback.
4. What is considered a “good” IV?
Generally, any Pokémon with IVs totaling 80% or higher is considered good. A 3-star appraisal indicates a strong Pokémon.
5. Should I keep Pokémon with low IVs?
It depends on your goals. If you’re a casual player, you can keep Pokémon you like, regardless of IVs. If you’re focused on competitive battling, prioritize Pokémon with high IVs. Remember that Pokémon with 0/0/0 IVs are also very rare and can be useful in specific PvP situations.
6. Does CP affect IVs?
No, CP (Combat Power) and IVs are separate. CP is a general measure of a Pokémon’s strength, calculated based on its base stats, IVs, and level.
7. What are the odds of getting a hundo from a Lucky Trade?
With the guaranteed IV floor of 12/12/12 from Lucky Trades, your odds of getting a hundo increase to roughly 1 in 64, or about 1.56%.
8. Does weather boost increase the chance of getting a hundo?
Yes, weather boost gives you a slightly higher chance of finding a hundo since weather-boosted Pokémon have a minimum IV of 4 in each stat.
9. Are hundos more common during certain events?
Some events increase the spawn rates of specific Pokémon, which indirectly increases your chances of finding a hundo of those Pokémon. Also, events with increased egg hatching or raid appearances improve the probability.
10. How much stronger is a hundo compared to a Pokémon with lower IVs?
The difference in stats between a hundo and a Pokémon with good but not perfect IVs is relatively small. It’s often not noticeable in casual play, but it can be a factor in high-level competitive battles.
11. Is it worth powering up a Pokémon with low IVs?
Generally, no. Stardust and Candy are valuable resources. It’s usually better to save them for Pokémon with higher IVs that will be more effective in battles.
12. Can I increase a Pokémon’s IVs after I catch it?
Not directly. However, purifying a Shadow Pokémon adds +2 to each IV. Trading Pokémon can also change their IVs, but not in a controlled manner.
13. Are Shadow Pokémon or Purified Pokémon better?
This depends on the specific Pokémon and your goals. Shadow Pokémon deal significantly more damage but take more damage as well. Purifying a Pokémon removes the Shadow bonus but increases IVs and reduces the Stardust and Candy cost for powering up.
14. What is the rarest type of hundo to find?
The rarest hundo is often a regional exclusive Pokémon that is only available in certain parts of the world, or Pokémon that are only available via rare events.
15. Should I evolve a 3-star Pokémon even if it’s not a hundo?
Yes, if a Pokémon has a good appraisal (3 stars), it’s a great candidate for evolution. Waiting for the perfect IV can take a long time, and a high-IV Pokémon will still perform very well. Remember to check if the Pokémon has ideal moves before investing heavily in it.
Final Thoughts
Hunting for hundos in Pokémon GO is a testament to dedication and a bit of luck. Understanding the factors that influence their rarity can help you optimize your search. While a hundo provides a slight edge in battle, remember that the journey and camaraderie with other trainers are just as important.
And speaking of learning and community, be sure to check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. They explore how games can be used for education and positive social impact, highlighting the powerful potential of games beyond just entertainment.
Happy hunting, trainers, and may the perfect IVs be ever in your favor!