Is Thundurus Hard to Catch? A Deep Dive into Legendary Raids

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Yes, Thundurus is notoriously hard to catch in Pokémon GO and the main series games. Its high catch rate modifier, coupled with its propensity to swat away Poké Balls, makes it a frustrating encounter even for seasoned trainers. Patience, strategy, and a little bit of luck are absolutely crucial when facing this Electric/Flying-type Legendary Pokémon.

Understanding Thundurus’ Catch Difficulty

Thundurus’ difficulty stems from a few core factors. Let’s break them down:

• Low Base Catch Rate: In Pokémon GO, Legendary Pokémon generally have very low base catch rates. Thundurus is no exception. This base rate is the starting point, which is then modified by various factors like berries, throw accuracy, and medal bonuses.

• Aggressive Behavior: In both Pokémon GO raid battles and the main series encounters, Thundurus is known for its aggressive animations, constantly attacking and making it difficult to time your throws. This can lead to wasted Poké Balls and increased frustration.

• IV Variations: While not directly affecting the catch rate, the IVs (Individual Values) of Thundurus influence its CP (Combat Power). A Thundurus with high IVs will have a higher CP, making it more desirable but equally as challenging to catch.

Mastering the Catch: Strategies and Techniques

While luck plays a role, skilled trainers can significantly improve their chances of catching Thundurus. Here are some proven techniques:

• Golden Razz Berries: These are your best friend. Golden Razz Berries drastically increase your chance of a successful catch. Use them consistently on every throw, especially when facing a Thundurus with high CP.

• Excellent Throws: Aim for Excellent throws consistently. This requires practice and a good understanding of the Pokémon’s attack pattern. Use the circle-locking technique to increase your accuracy.

• Circle-Locking Technique: This technique involves waiting for the target circle to shrink to the desired size (ideally, Excellent) and then setting your finger at that size. When Thundurus attacks, it will pause. Use this pause to throw the Poké Ball, releasing your finger just as Thundurus finishes its attack animation.

• Type Medals: Having gold or platinum medals for Electric and Flying-type Pokémon will significantly increase your catch rate. Grind these medals by catching as many Pokémon of those types as possible before attempting the Thundurus raid.

• Raid Party Advantage: While not directly affecting individual catch rates, raiding with friends can make the raid battle easier and faster, giving you more time to focus on catching Thundurus.

• Patience is Key: Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch Thundurus on your first few throws, or even in the first raid. Remain calm, focus on your technique, and use your berries wisely.

Thundurus Forms: Incarnate vs. Therian

Thundurus has two distinct forms: Incarnate Forme and Therian Forme. Both are Electric/Flying-type, but they differ in stats and appearance. Generally, both forms present similar challenges when it comes to catching them. The catch rate mechanics are similar across both formes. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each forme can help in battle, but the techniques for catching remain largely consistent. The best way to learn about Pokémon strategies is to connect with educational resources like the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. You can also check out GamesLearningSociety.org.

The Importance of Weather Boost

Weather conditions in Pokémon GO can significantly impact the spawn rates and stats of certain Pokémon. Thundurus, being an Electric/Flying-type, will be boosted in rainy and windy weather. While a weather-boosted Thundurus will be stronger in the raid battle, it also means it will be at a higher level when you try to catch it, making it even more challenging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Catching Thundurus

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about catching Thundurus, designed to provide comprehensive information and address common concerns:

1. What is the base catch rate of Thundurus in Pokémon GO? The base catch rate for Legendary Pokémon like Thundurus is very low, typically around 2-3%.

2. Do different Poké Balls affect the catch rate of Thundurus? Yes, you should always use Premier Balls awarded from the raid to catch Thundurus, as they are the only type of Poké Ball you can use in a raid encounter.

3. Does the size of the target circle really matter? Absolutely. A smaller target circle increases your chance of scoring a Great, Excellent, or Curveball throw, which significantly boosts the catch rate.

4. How many Premier Balls do I get after a Thundurus raid? The number of Premier Balls you receive depends on your damage contribution, team contribution, gym control, and friendship level with other raiders.

5. Is it better to raid with a large group or a small group? While a larger group makes the raid battle easier, it might reduce your individual damage contribution, potentially resulting in fewer Premier Balls. Find a balance that works for you.

6. Can Thundurus flee during the catch encounter? No. Legendary Pokémon in raid encounters cannot flee, so you have a guaranteed number of throws to attempt to catch it.

7. Are Shiny Thundurus harder to catch? No, the catch rate for a Shiny Thundurus is the same as for a regular Thundurus. The rarity comes from finding the Shiny version, not catching it once found.

8. What is the best strategy for catching Thundurus in the main series games? In the main series, use status conditions like Sleep or Paralysis to increase your catch rate. Also, use Ultra Balls or Timer Balls (later in the battle).

9. Does my trainer level affect the catch rate? No, your trainer level does not directly affect the catch rate. However, a higher trainer level allows you to power up your Pokémon to deal more damage in the raid, potentially earning more Premier Balls.

10. What are the ideal IVs for Thundurus for raids and PvP? This depends on your strategy. For raids, focus on Attack. For PvP, a good balance of Attack, Defense, and HP is usually preferred, often favoring lower Attack for Great and Ultra League to minimize CP.

11. Is it worth using Silver Pinap Berries instead of Golden Razz Berries? Silver Pinap Berries offer a slight increase to catch rate and increase the amount of candy you receive, but Golden Razz Berries are always the better choice if your primary goal is to catch Thundurus.

12. How can I improve my Excellent throw accuracy? Practice, practice, practice! Use Pokémon with large target circles to hone your timing and technique. Look up videos and guides on the circle-locking technique.

13. Do weather boosts affect the catch rate directly? No, weather boosts don’t directly affect the catch rate modifier. However, as mentioned above, weather boosted Pokémon will be at a higher level.

14. Should I curve my Poké Balls when trying to catch Thundurus? Yes, Curveballs increase the catch rate. While they require more skill to execute consistently, the bonus they provide is significant.

15. What is the difference between Incarnate and Therian Forme Thundurus in terms of catch difficulty? There is no significant difference in catch difficulty between the two forms. The catch rate mechanics are the same.

Conclusion

Catching Thundurus is a challenge, but with the right strategies, persistence, and a little bit of luck, you can add this powerful Legendary Pokémon to your collection. Remember to use Golden Razz Berries, aim for Excellent throws, and be patient. Good luck, trainers!