Should I Catch Everything I See in Pokémon GO?

No, you should not catch everything you see in Pokémon GO. While the initial instinct might be to hoard every single creature that pops up on your screen, a more strategic approach to catching Pokémon will ultimately benefit you more in the long run. Selective catching, focusing on specific Pokémon, events, and your overall goals, is the key to maximizing your resources and progress within the game.

Why Not Catch ‘Em All (Literally)?

Catching every single Pokémon that appears seems like a straightforward way to “catch ’em all,” but it quickly becomes a resource-intensive and inefficient strategy. Here’s why:

• Limited Resources: Poké Balls, Berries, and storage space are finite resources. Wasting them on common Pokémon that offer little value will hinder your ability to catch rarer and more powerful Pokémon when they appear.
• Time Constraints: Pokémon GO is often played on the go, and spending excessive time catching every Pidgey or Rattata eats into your real-world schedule. Optimizing your play time allows for more efficient resource gathering and progress.
• Stardust Optimization: While catching Pokémon awards Stardust, the amount earned from common spawns is minimal. Focusing on Pokémon you intend to power up or use in battles allows you to allocate your Stardust more strategically.
• Bag Space Limitations: Your Pokémon storage is limited, and continually filling it with low-IV (Individual Value) Pokémon necessitates constant transfers. This can be tedious and time-consuming, especially during events.
• XP Efficiency: While catching Pokémon awards experience points (XP), there are more efficient ways to level up, such as participating in raids, completing research tasks, and evolving Pokémon during double XP events.

A More Strategic Approach to Catching

Instead of mindlessly tapping on every Pokémon, consider these strategies for more effective gameplay:

• Prioritize Rare and Useful Pokémon: Focus on catching Pokémon with high IVs, desirable movesets, or those that are rare in your area. These Pokémon are more valuable for battles, raids, and trading.
• Utilize Quick Catch: Master the Quick Catch technique to significantly reduce the time spent in each encounter. This involves using one hand to select a Berry, then quickly dragging your finger to throw the Poké Ball while skipping the catch animation.
• Target Event Pokémon: During special events, Pokémon relevant to the event often spawn more frequently. Take advantage of these opportunities to catch Pokémon that are usually rare or have event-exclusive moves.
• Take advantage of Weather Boosts: Pokémon benefit from weather boosts that increase their CP (Combat Power) and IVs. Check the in-game weather forecast and target Pokémon that are boosted in your area.
• Use Berries Wisely: Employ Nanab Berries to slow down jumpy Pokémon and increase your chances of landing a hit. Razz Berries increase your catch rate, and Pinap Berries double your candy gain (use them strategically on Pokémon you need candy for evolution).
• Learn about Pokemon IVs: IVs (Individual Values) represent a Pokémon’s potential in battle. Learn how to appraise your Pokémon and use IV checking apps to identify those with high potential.
• Focus on Specific Research Tasks: Research tasks often require you to catch specific types of Pokémon. Prioritize these tasks to earn rewards and progress in the game.
• Be Mindful of Storage: Regularly transfer unwanted Pokémon to Professor Willow to free up storage space and earn candies. Focus on keeping Pokémon with high IVs, useful movesets, or those you need for evolution.
• Use Incense and Lures strategically: Incense and lures attract Pokémon to your location. Deploy them when you have ample time to catch Pokémon and maximize their effectiveness.
• Consider Pokemon GO Plus/Gotcha: These devices can automatically spin Pokéstops and catch Pokémon, allowing you to passively gather resources while on the move. However, keep in mind that they often catch lower-level Pokémon.

Refining Your Gameplay

Once you’ve adopted a strategic approach to catching, consider these further refinements:

• Optimize your throw: Mastering curveball throws and consistently hitting Excellent throws will significantly increase your catch rate.
• Understand Pokémon Types and Matchups: Knowing which Pokémon are strong against others allows you to select the best team for raids and battles.
• Join a Local Community: Connect with other Pokémon GO players in your area to share tips, coordinate raids, and trade Pokémon.
• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest events, research tasks, and Pokémon GO news to maximize your gameplay.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are IVs and why are they important?

IVs (Individual Values) are hidden stats that determine a Pokémon’s potential in battle. They consist of three values: Attack, Defense, and HP (Hit Points), each ranging from 0 to 15. Pokémon with higher IVs will generally be stronger and perform better in raids, gyms, and PvP battles.

2. How do I check a Pokémon’s IVs?

You can use the in-game appraisal feature or third-party apps/websites that overlay IV information. Be aware that using third-party apps might violate the game’s terms of service, so proceed with caution.

3. What is the Quick Catch technique?

The Quick Catch technique allows you to skip the catch animation, saving time. Tap the Berry icon, then quickly drag your finger to throw the Poké Ball. If the Pokémon breaks free, it will appear on the map screen, allowing you to re-engage quickly. If you successfully catch it, move to the next one!

4. What’s the difference between a Razz Berry, a Nanab Berry, and a Pinap Berry?

• Razz Berry: Increases your catch rate, making it easier to catch Pokémon.
• Nanab Berry: Makes Pokémon less erratic and easier to hit with a Poké Ball.
• Pinap Berry: Doubles the amount of candy you receive if you successfully catch the Pokémon.

5. When should I use Incense or Lure Modules?

Use Incense when you’re moving to attract Pokémon to your location. Use Lure Modules at PokéStops when you plan to stay in one place for a while. Both are most effective during events or when you have ample time to catch Pokémon.

6. Should I power up my Pokémon before evolving them?

Generally, it’s better to evolve your Pokémon first and then power them up. This allows you to see the evolved form’s moveset and determine if it’s worth investing Stardust and candy.

7. What are Community Days and why are they important?

Community Days are monthly events that feature a specific Pokémon with increased spawn rates, boosted shiny rates, and an exclusive move. It’s a great opportunity to catch rare Pokémon and build up a strong team.

8. How do I get more Poké Balls?

You can get Poké Balls by spinning PokéStops, completing research tasks, leveling up, opening gifts from friends, and purchasing them from the in-game shop.

9. What is a shiny Pokémon?

A shiny Pokémon is a Pokémon with a different color palette than its original form. They are rare and highly sought after by collectors.

10. How do I increase my Pokémon storage?

You can purchase Pokémon storage upgrades from the in-game shop using PokéCoins.

11. How do I earn Stardust quickly?

The fastest ways to earn Stardust are to participate in events with Stardust bonuses, catch Pokémon, and complete research tasks.

12. What are Rocket Stops and Shadow Pokémon?

Rocket Stops are PokéStops that have been invaded by Team GO Rocket. You can battle Team GO Rocket Grunts to rescue Shadow Pokémon. Purifying Shadow Pokémon can improve their IVs and unlock special moves.

13. What are Legendaries and how do I get them?

Legendary Pokémon are powerful and rare Pokémon that are typically only available through Raids.

14. What is the benefit of having friends in Pokémon GO?

Having friends allows you to exchange gifts, trade Pokémon, and participate in raids together, all of which can help you progress faster in the game.

15. Is it worth using an auto-catcher device like the Pokémon GO Plus or Gotcha?

Auto-catcher devices can be useful for passively gathering resources while on the move, but they may not always catch Pokémon with high IVs and can drain your Poké Balls quickly. Use them strategically based on your gameplay style and goals. They can save you time when working or studying!

By adopting a more strategic approach to catching, you’ll conserve resources, optimize your play time, and ultimately progress faster in Pokémon GO. Remember to prioritize quality over quantity and focus on Pokémon that align with your goals. Happy catching!