Is Frustration a Useful Move in Pokémon GO?
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No, Frustration is generally not considered a useful move in Pokémon GO. It’s a Normal-type Charged Attack that Shadow Pokémon are stuck with upon capture, and it’s significantly weaker than many other available Charged Attacks. While Shadow Pokémon gain an attack boost, the low damage output of Frustration severely limits their potential.
Why Frustration Falls Short
The core problem with Frustration lies in its damage output. The provided text says it only deals a “disappointing 12 points of damage even with the damage bonus”. This is incredibly low compared to other Charged Attacks, especially when considering the resources invested in powering up a Shadow Pokémon. Even with the Shadow Pokémon’s inherent 20% attack boost, Frustration simply doesn’t pack enough punch to be a viable option in raids, Gym battles, or Trainer Battles. The fact that it can only be removed during special events further compounds the issue, making it a frustrating (pun intended!) obstacle for players looking to optimize their Shadow Pokémon.
Furthermore, the article states that “Frustration is weaker than some fast attacks, and is the worst charged move in the game.” This reinforces the idea that it should always be replaced as soon as the opportunity arises. The only possible niche use is as a placeholder until a better move can be learned, but even then, it actively hinders the Pokémon’s performance.
Frustration: Not Just a Pokémon Problem
Interestingly, the article touches on the concept of frustration beyond the game itself. It highlights the real-world benefits of building frustration tolerance. While Frustration is a detriment in Pokémon GO, learning to cope with real-life frustrations is a valuable skill that can lead to increased resilience, better relationships, and a more optimistic outlook. This demonstrates how even seemingly trivial aspects of a game can subtly reflect and inform real-world experiences.
Frustration and Shadow Pokémon
The combination of Frustration with Shadow Pokémon presents a unique dilemma. Shadow Pokémon possess a powerful 20% damage bonus, making them potentially formidable attackers. However, this potential is stifled by the presence of Frustration. The low damage output of Frustration negates much of the benefit of the Shadow bonus. This is why removing Frustration from high-potential Shadow Pokémon like Shadow Mewtwo, Shadow Ho-Oh, and Shadow Lugia is a top priority for many players.
Frustration in Other Pokémon Games
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of Frustration varies across different Pokémon games. In the Rescue Team and Explorers series, Frustration’s damage is linked to the user’s IQ stat. This makes it significantly more useful in those games, especially at lower IQ levels. However, this functionality doesn’t translate to Pokémon GO, where Frustration’s base damage remains consistently low.
Ultimately, in the context of Pokémon GO, Frustration is a move to be avoided and replaced whenever possible. Its low damage output and limited availability make it a significant liability, hindering the potential of otherwise powerful Shadow Pokémon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is the best time to remove Frustration from my Shadow Pokémon?
The best time to remove Frustration is during special in-game events that allow you to use a Charged TM (Technical Machine) to replace it. These events are announced on the official Pokémon GO blog and social media channels.
2. Which Shadow Pokémon should I prioritize for removing Frustration?
Prioritize Legendary Shadow Pokémon like Shadow Mewtwo, Shadow Ho-Oh, and Shadow Lugia. These Pokémon have high base stats and can become incredibly powerful attackers once Frustration is replaced with a better Charged Attack.
3. How do I know if a Pokémon is a Shadow Pokémon?
Shadow Pokémon have a dark aura around them and a unique icon in their profile. They are obtained by defeating Team GO Rocket Grunts and Leaders.
4. Can I evolve my Shadow Pokémon before removing Frustration?
Yes, you can. However, if you’re planning to teach your Shadow Pokémon an exclusive Community Day move, you must remove Frustration before evolving it. Otherwise, you might miss the opportunity to get the exclusive move and waste an Elite Charged TM later.
5. What are the best Charged Attacks to replace Frustration with?
The best Charged Attacks depend on the specific Pokémon and its role in battle. Research top-tier movesets for your Pokémon of interest. General examples of powerful Charged Attacks include Psychic for Mewtwo, Brave Bird or Sacred Fire for Ho-Oh, and Aeroblast for Lugia.
6. Is Return a better move than Frustration?
While both moves have the same base power, Return is generally easier to maximize the power. Return’s power is based on how close to the Trainer the Pokémon is, making it easier to have a better outcome with Return than with Frustration.
7. What is the difference between Shadow Pokémon and Purified Pokémon?
Shadow Pokémon have a 20% attack boost but a 20% defense decrease. Purified Pokémon receive a boost to their IVs (Individual Values) and require less Stardust and Candy to power up.
8. Should I purify all my Shadow Pokémon?
Not necessarily. While Purified Pokémon are cheaper to power up, Shadow Pokémon often perform better in raids and Gym battles due to their higher attack stat. The choice depends on your individual needs and playstyle.
9. Are there any benefits to keeping Frustration on a Shadow Pokémon?
No, there are no practical benefits to keeping Frustration on a Shadow Pokémon in Pokémon GO. It severely limits their offensive capabilities.
10. How does Frustration work in other Pokémon games besides Pokémon GO?
In some games, like the Rescue Team and Explorers series, Frustration’s damage depends on the user’s IQ stat. In Pokémon GO, it has a set base damage that is consistently low.
11. Does the type of Pokémon affect how bad Frustration is?
No, the type of Pokémon does not affect how bad Frustration is. The move’s low base damage is universally detrimental regardless of the Pokémon using it.
12. Where can I find information about upcoming events where I can remove Frustration?
Keep an eye on the official Pokémon GO blog, social media channels, and reliable Pokémon GO news websites for announcements about upcoming events.
13. Is it worth using an Elite Charged TM to remove Frustration if I missed the event?
Using an Elite Charged TM to remove Frustration is generally only worth it for extremely rare or high-IV Shadow Pokémon that you plan to use extensively. Regular Charged TMs are much more common and should be used during events.
14. Can I trade Shadow Pokémon with Frustration?
No, Shadow Pokémon cannot be traded to other players.
15. Where can I learn more about the impact of frustration in general?
You can learn more about the impact of frustration, and its connection to games and learning, at the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
While frustration is a normal human emotion and can sometimes lead to growth through increased tolerance, Frustration as a move is not something to accept or embrace in Pokémon GO. It’s a roadblock on the path to building a powerful team and should be removed at the first available opportunity.