Decoding the Tiny Titans: What is a XXS Pokemon in Pokemon GO?

In Pokemon GO, a XXS Pokemon is an exceptionally small version of a particular species. Upon encountering one in the wild, the game will display a noticeably smaller sprite and announce that the Pokemon is “tiny” via a special animation. Catching these diminutive creatures triggers a “New Size Record” notification, adding a fun and engaging collect-a-thon element to the core gameplay loop. These XXS Pokémon introduce an additional layer of rarity and uniqueness to the already expansive world of Pokemon GO, encouraging players to be even more vigilant in their hunts.

XXS Pokemon: More Than Just a Small Package

While XXS Pokemon don’t offer any direct combat advantages, they’ve become highly sought-after collectibles within the Pokemon GO community. The thrill of finding a Pokemon that deviates so drastically from the norm adds an exciting element of surprise. Before the introduction of XXS and XXL Pokémon, only Pumpkaboo had distinctive sizes. Now ALL Pokémon in Pokémon GO can be XXS or XXL. From teeny tiny Turtwigs, to ginormously giant Golems, every Pokémon you meet might just be a new record for your Pokédex.

The Allure of Rarity

The primary appeal of XXS Pokemon lies in their rarity. These Pokémon are considerably harder to find than standard-sized variants. The odds of getting one, requiring 4 standard deviations of height, is reportedly around 1/31,500 so it is very possible for all of your friends to never get one or notice one being transferred. This makes acquiring them a testament to persistence and dedication, qualities that resonate deeply with many Pokemon GO players.

A Collector’s Dream

For dedicated collectors, securing a complete set of XXS Pokemon represents a significant achievement. These tiny titans add a unique visual flair to one’s storage and serve as a badge of honor. Many trainers relish the opportunity to showcase their rare finds to fellow players, further fueling the hunt for these diminutive creatures.

Showcase Potential

With the advent of Pokéstop Showcases, the weight and height (size) of your Pokémon directly affect which Pokémon are optimal for entering a showcase.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about XXS Pokemon in Pokemon GO

Here are some frequently asked questions about XXS Pokemon, addressing key aspects of their existence within the Pokemon GO universe:

1. What’s the difference between XS and XXS Pokemon?

   While both are smaller than average, XXS Pokemon are significantly smaller than XS Pokemon. The game will specifically announce “tiny” for an XXS catch, whereas an XS catch will not result in an announcement. Think of XXS as the extreme version of XS.

2. Are XXS Pokemon stronger or weaker than regular-sized Pokemon?

   The weight and height don’t matter at all. The size has no impact on a Pokémon’s stats.

3. Can Legendary Pokemon be XXS?

   Yes! According to Niantic, XXS and XXL Pokémon are in the same tier as legendaries, Ultra Beasts, Shinies, and Mythicals.

4. Do XXS Pokemon evolve differently?

   Height and weight change randomly upon evolution. The size of the Pokemon does not affect how it evolves, or if it evolves.

5. Do XXS Pokemon stay XXS when transferred to Pokemon HOME?

   Yes! When sent through Pokémon HOME to the main series games, they will be as big or small as possible, with XXS Pokémon getting a size value of 0 and XXL Pokémon getting a size value of 255.

6. Can XXS Pokemon be traded?

   Yes, XXS Pokemon can be traded like any other Pokemon, but it does not change size.

7. Does purifying a Shadow Pokemon affect its size?

   Purifying a Shadow Pokémon will improve their appraisal and reduce the amount of Stardust and Candy required for them to Power Up, Evolve, or learn a new attack.

8. Should I keep my XXS Pokemon?

   In case trainers only have one Event Pokemon from the special Event, they should keep the Pokemon regardless of its CP and Appraisal. Pokemon GO doesn’t often bring back the Event-exclusive Pokemon, so it may be the only time they can get them. Furthermore, because XXS Pokémon are more rare, they are typically worth keeping regardless of event!

9. Do Pokemon change size?

   One big example of this is that it seems to have confirmed that all Pokemon can shrink themselves.

10. Are shiny XXS Pokemon even rarer?

    Yes, in addition to being shiny, the rarity of the XXS variant makes it highly rare.

11. What happens if you purify a 4 * shadow Pokemon?

    When Purified, a Shadow Pokémon will forget Frustration and learn Return, a Charged Attack that’s exclusive to Purified Pokémon.

12. Is a 0 star shadow Pokemon good?

    Shadow Pokemon that are Purified will sometimes have their Appraisal increased. It will also lose the Shadow Bonus effect. So, if a Shadow Pokemon is 0-stars but has decent Attacks and CP, it’s better to leave it unpurified for future battles.

13. Can a 2 star Pokemon become a 3 star?

    Purified Pokemon will have better Appraisal and receive 2 points towards all their IVs. This can potentially bring a 2-star Shadow Pokemon to a 3-star if it’s purified. Purified Pokemon will receive a significant boost in Combat Power (CP).

14. What is the rarest Pokemon in Pokémon GO?

    Azelf, Mesprit, and Uxie. Each one only spawns in specific regions, and they don’t show up often at all.

15. Are there showcases for xxs Pokémon? Yes, with the recent introduction of XXS and XXL Pokémon, and now Pokéstop Showcases, you may be wondering how Pokémon GO works out which of your Pokémon are the optimal ones to enter in a Showcase.

Final Thoughts: The Little Things Matter

While XXS Pokemon may not be titans of battle, their rarity and collectibility make them valuable additions to any Pokemon GO player’s collection. They represent a fun and engaging way to enhance the overall gameplay experience, encouraging players to explore, discover, and connect with the game on a deeper level. Keep your eyes peeled for these tiny treasures – you never know when you might stumble upon your next XXS record-breaker.

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