Should I Evolve High CP Pokémon? A Comprehensive Guide

The short answer is: it depends! While a high Combat Power (CP) Pokémon seems like the ideal candidate for evolution, focusing solely on CP can lead to suboptimal results. Individual Values (IVs), which represent a Pokémon’s hidden potential, are just as, if not more, crucial. Ideally, you want a combination of both, but prioritizing IVs over slightly higher CP is generally the wiser long-term strategy. Let’s delve deeper into the nuances of evolution in Pokémon GO and break down when to evolve those promising pocket monsters.

Understanding CP and IVs

Before making any evolution decisions, it’s essential to understand the difference between CP and IVs. CP is a visible, easily understood metric representing a Pokémon’s overall strength. A Pokémon with a higher CP will generally perform better in battle at that moment. However, CP can be increased by powering up the Pokémon using Stardust and Candy.

IVs, on the other hand, are hidden, permanent stats that significantly impact a Pokémon’s potential. Each Pokémon has three IV stats: Attack, Defense, and HP (Hit Points). Each stat ranges from 0 to 15. A Pokémon with perfect IVs (15/15/15, often referred to as “100% IV” or “hundo”) will always reach a higher CP ceiling than a Pokémon of the same species with lower IVs, even if they start with similar CP values.

The Evolution Dilemma: CP vs. IVs

So, when should you prioritize CP, and when should you favor IVs?

• Prioritize IVs for Long-Term Power: IVs are permanent. Think of them as a Pokémon’s genes. A Pokémon with high IVs has the potential to become much stronger than one with low IVs, even if the low-IV Pokémon has a higher CP initially. Investing resources (Stardust and Candy) into powering up a Pokémon with low IVs is often a waste, as it will never reach its full potential.

• Consider CP for Immediate Use: If you need a strong Pokémon right now for raiding or gym battles, evolving a Pokémon with a higher CP can be a viable short-term solution. However, be aware that you might be sacrificing long-term strength for immediate gratification.

• The Ideal Scenario: High CP and High IVs: The best possible outcome is finding a Pokémon with both high CP and high IVs. This Pokémon is a prime candidate for evolution and powering up. Check their appraisal to determine their IVs. A 3 star Pokemon with a red stamp is 100%.

Evaluating Pokémon Candidates for Evolution

Before hitting that “Evolve” button, consider these factors:

1. IV Appraisal: Use the in-game appraisal system (or a third-party app, if allowed) to check the Pokémon’s IVs. Aim for Pokémon with high IVs (ideally 80% or higher). Three-star Pokémon are generally worth investing in.

2. Move Sets: After evolving a Pokémon, it receives a new move set. Some move sets are more effective than others for different types of battles. Research the optimal move sets for the Pokémon you’re evolving before committing to the evolution. You can use Technical Machines (TMs) to reroll the move set of a Pokémon.

3. Candy and Stardust Costs: Evolving and powering up Pokémon requires Candy and Stardust. These resources can be scarce, especially at lower levels. Consider whether you have enough resources to fully evolve and power up the Pokémon before making a decision. Save your resources for the best candidates.

4. Rarity: Some Pokémon are rarer than others. If you have a rare Pokémon with decent IVs, it might be worth evolving even if its CP isn’t exceptionally high. You might not get another chance to catch a better one.

5. Shadow Pokémon: Remember that Shadow Pokémon receive an attack boost. This boost makes them more effective than their normal counterparts in many cases, even with slightly lower IVs. Weigh the pros and cons of purifying a Shadow Pokémon, as it will gain IVs but lose the attack boost.

Gym Defense and CP Decay

One aspect to consider is placing Pokémon in gyms. Higher CP Pokémon decay faster than lower CP Pokémon. Although they are generally harder to defeat, motivated players can defeat any Pokemon after only a few tries.

In Conclusion: A Balanced Approach

Evolving high CP Pokémon isn’t inherently “good” or “bad.” It’s a strategic decision that depends on your goals and resources. While high CP provides immediate strength, high IVs ensure long-term potential. Strive for a balance, prioritizing IVs while keeping CP in mind. A well-informed decision will lead to a stronger, more versatile team of Pokémon!

Understanding the mechanics and the role of educational gaming can improve your gameplay experience and decision-making within the game. Learn more at the Games Learning Society or visit GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it better to evolve a 0-star Pokémon with high CP or a 3-star Pokémon with low CP?

Generally, the 3-star Pokémon with low CP is the better choice. Although it will take more investment initially to power up the 3-star, the potential maximum CP is much higher.

2. Should I evolve a shiny Pokémon even if its IVs are low?

This is a matter of personal preference. Shiny Pokémon are rare and have aesthetic appeal. If you value the unique coloration, evolve it regardless of IVs. However, if you prioritize competitive strength, you might want to wait for a shiny with better IVs.

3. What IV percentage is considered “good” for evolving?

Aim for Pokémon with IVs of 80% or higher (3-star Pokemon). These Pokémon have excellent potential and are worth investing in.

4. Should I purify a Shadow Pokémon to get better IVs?

Purifying a Shadow Pokémon will increase its IVs, but it will also remove the Shadow boost (a 20% damage increase). Weigh the pros and cons. If the Shadow Pokémon has already high IVs or is a rare Pokémon, keep it as a shadow Pokémon.

5. Does weather boost affect IVs?

No, weather boost does not affect IVs. It only affects the CP level of Pokémon found in the wild. Weather boosted Pokemon are more likely to be at level 30 or higher, depending on trainer level.

6. Should I evolve a Lucky Pokémon?

Lucky Pokémon have a minimum IV floor of 12/12/12. They also require less Stardust to power up. This makes them excellent candidates for evolving, as they have guaranteed decent IVs and are cheaper to power up.

7. Is there a way to change a Pokémon’s IVs?

No, IVs are permanent and cannot be changed.

8. How does CP relate to a Pokémon’s level?

CP is directly correlated to a Pokémon’s level. As you power up a Pokémon (increasing its level), its CP will also increase.

9. Should I keep low CP Pokémon?

Keeping low CP Pokemon can clog up your storage. Generally, anything below 2 stars is a bad Pokemon to keep. Pokemon who are low CP can always be caught at a higher level when you level up more.

10. Should I wait for perfect IVs (100%) before evolving?

Waiting for perfect IVs can take a very long time. Evolving a Pokémon with high IVs (80% or higher) is generally a more practical approach, as you’ll likely find a decent candidate much sooner.

11. What Pokémon gains the most CP when evolving?

Some Pokémon experience significant CP jumps upon evolution. Notably, Feebas evolves into Milotic with a major increase in CP. Research Pokemon to find which will have large CP jumps.

12. Are some Pokémon not worth keeping at all?

Yes, some Pokémon are generally considered weaker and less useful than others. Prioritize investing in Pokémon with better stats and move sets.

13. Is it worth putting weak Pokémon in gyms?

Putting weak Pokémon in gyms can earn you some Gym badges and points even if it’s defeated quickly. Some players use this strategy with Pokémon they plan to transfer anyway, earning a little bit of benefit without expending resources.

14. How rare are 100 IV Pokémon?

The chance of finding a 100% IV Pokémon in the wild is approximately 1 in 4096. They are quite rare!

15. Are shiny Pokémon stronger than regular Pokémon?

No, shiny Pokémon are not inherently stronger. Their only difference is their unique color. Their stats and IVs are determined separately.