Should I Keep Tiny Pokémon in Pokémon GO? A Trainer’s Guide
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Yes, you should keep tiny XXS Pokémon in Pokémon GO! While they might not be powerhouses in battle, these little critters offer unique advantages and collectibility, making them valuable additions to any trainer’s roster. Think of them as more than just battling buddies; they’re badges of honor, record-breakers, and even potential conversation starters!
The Allure of the Petite: Why XXS Pokémon Matter
In the sprawling world of Pokémon GO, where CP often reigns supreme, it’s easy to overlook the significance of a Pokémon’s size. However, the introduction of XXS and XXL variations has added a new layer of depth to the collecting experience. Let’s delve into the reasons why you shouldn’t automatically transfer those diminutive Pocket Monsters.
Breaking Records and Earning Bragging Rights
One of the most compelling reasons to keep your XXS Pokémon is the record-breaking system. Pokémon GO tracks the smallest and largest specimens of each species you catch. Landing an XXS Pokémon that beats your previous record triggers a celebratory message, offering a delightful sense of accomplishment. It’s a fun, personal challenge that encourages you to pay attention to more than just CP.
Medal Progression and Leveling Up
As you climb the ranks in Pokémon GO, you’ll need to achieve certain milestones to unlock higher levels. Reaching level 48, for instance, requires earning 35 platinum medals. Catching various sizes of Pokémon, including those elusive XXS ones, can contribute to medal progression, specifically those related to catching a certain number of Pokémon of a specific type. These tiny catches can be surprisingly helpful in reaching those medal goals.
The Buddy Pokémon Experience
XXS and XXL Pokémon stand out when selected as your Buddy. Their noticeably smaller (or larger) size adds a whimsical touch to the game, making your buddy adventures even more enjoyable. Imagine exploring the world with a comically small Machamp or a gigantic Pikachu towering over your avatar!
Pokémon HOME Integration
For those who enjoy transferring Pokémon to the core series games via Pokémon HOME, XXS and XXL Pokémon have a special significance. These Pokémon are assigned extreme size values in the main series games, making them unique collectibles for dedicated fans.
Gym Domination (Sort Of…)
While a tiny Pokémon might not hold a gym for long against a determined attacker, placing one in an open gym slot offers a low-risk opportunity to earn coins and contribute to your gym badges. It’s a strategic way to utilize Pokémon you might otherwise transfer, maximizing their value.
The Collector’s Mentality
Ultimately, the decision to keep or transfer a Pokémon often comes down to personal preference. For collectors, XXS Pokémon represent a rare and unique variation that adds to the overall enjoyment of the game. It’s about more than just strength; it’s about the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of completing your collection.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Tiny Pokémon
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the role of XXS Pokémon in Pokémon GO:
1. Do XXS Pokémon have lower CP values?
Generally, yes. Smaller Pokémon often have lower CP values than their larger counterparts. However, CP isn’t everything! Other factors like IVs and movesets also play a crucial role in determining a Pokémon’s battle effectiveness.
2. Do weight and height affect a Pokémon’s stats?
No, weight and height are primarily cosmetic in Pokémon GO. They don’t directly influence a Pokémon’s attack, defense, or HP stats.
3. Does size matter in PvP battles?
Not directly. However, certain Pokémon are favored in specific leagues due to their move sets, typing, and stats, not their size.
4. How rare are XXS Pokémon?
The size range in Pokémon GO is typically between 0 and 255, with 0 representing XXS and 255 representing XXL. This suggests that the odds of encountering an XXS or XXL Pokémon are relatively low, making them desirable collectibles.
5. Do XXL Pokémon stay XXL when evolved?
No, a Pokémon’s height and weight are re-randomized upon evolution. There’s no guarantee that an XXL Pokémon will remain XXL after evolving.
6. Are shiny Pokémon stronger than regular Pokémon?
No, shiny Pokémon are purely cosmetic. They have the same stats and potential as their non-shiny counterparts.
7. What’s the significance of XL and XS tags?
These tags simply indicate that a Pokémon’s weight or height is unusually high or low compared to the average for its species.
8. Is it better to hold off evolving Pokémon?
Evolving can change your Pokémon’s moveset. It’s often advisable to evolve your Pokémon to its final stage before investing Stardust, as evolved Pokémon often learn more powerful moves.
9. Should I purify Shadow Pokémon?
Purifying Shadow Pokémon can increase their IVs, but it also removes the Shadow bonus (increased attack but reduced defense). Whether or not to purify depends on your priorities and the specific Pokémon.
10. Why do people put weak Pokémon in gyms?
Trainers often place weak Pokémon in gyms as a way to earn coins and contribute to their gym badges without risking valuable resources like potions and revives.
11. Should I keep event Pokémon?
Yes, definitely! Event Pokémon are often rare and may not be available again in the future. Even if their stats aren’t ideal, they’re valuable collectibles.
12. What does a white ring around a PokéStop mean?
A white ring indicates the level to which the PokéStop has been powered up. Higher-level PokéStops provide more valuable items.
13. Why do some Pokémon lose motivation faster in gyms?
Pokémon with higher CP values (3000 CP or more) lose motivation more quickly than those with lower CP values.
14. What are Catch Combos?
Catch Combos are achieved by catching the same species of Pokémon consecutively. As your combo count increases, you’ll earn more Candies to power up your Pokémon.
15. Where can I learn more about the educational aspects of gaming?
You can explore resources and research on the intersection of games and learning at the Games Learning Society, found at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. This organization delves into how games can be used effectively in educational settings. Or, check out GamesLearningSociety.org.
Embrace the Variety
In conclusion, while XXS Pokémon may not always be the strongest contenders in battle, they offer a range of unique benefits and collecting opportunities in Pokémon GO. From breaking records to contributing to medal progression, these tiny creatures add a layer of fun and challenge to the game. So, the next time you encounter a petite Pokémon, consider keeping it – you might just be surprised at the joy it brings to your Pokémon GO journey!