Decoding the Perfect Pokémon: What is a “Good” IV in Pokémon GO?
In the captivating world of Pokémon GO, aspiring trainers strive to assemble the most powerful teams possible. While movesets and Pokémon types are critical, a hidden statistic, known as Individual Values (IVs), can significantly impact a Pokémon’s battle prowess. So, what exactly constitutes a “good” IV in Pokémon GO, and why should you care?
Simply put, a “good” IV Pokémon GO typically refers to a Pokémon with high IV stats, ideally approaching or reaching 100% IV (also known as perfect IVs). These IVs, ranging from 0 to 15 for each stat (Attack, Defense, and HP), represent a Pokémon’s innate potential and directly influence its Combat Power (CP) and overall performance in battles, raids, and Gym defense. A Pokémon with higher IVs of the same species at the same level will have a higher CP than one with lower IVs.
While a perfect IV Pokémon is the ultimate goal for many trainers, realistically, aiming for Pokémon with IVs of 80% or higher is a sensible and effective strategy for building a strong and competitive team. Pokémon with these IVs will provide a noticeable advantage in battles and raids, without requiring an exorbitant amount of time and resources to find. IVs are especially crucial in competitive PvP leagues, where even slight stat differences can determine victory or defeat.
Understanding Individual Values (IVs)
IVs are hidden stats assigned to each Pokémon upon capture or hatching. These values, ranging from 0 to 15, represent bonus points added to a Pokémon’s base stats for Attack, Defense, and HP. A Pokémon with 15 Attack IVs, for instance, will have a higher Attack stat compared to another of the same species and level with 0 Attack IVs. This difference becomes more significant as the Pokémon is powered up to higher levels.
The Importance of IV Scanners
While IVs are hidden in the game, trainers can use IV scanners (both in-app and external websites) to determine a Pokémon’s IVs based on its CP, HP, and level. Some popular IV scanners include Poké Genie and Calcy IV. These tools use complex calculations based on the game’s formulas to provide accurate IV appraisals. Understanding and utilizing these scanners is a key step in identifying and prioritizing high-IV Pokémon.
The Role of Appraisals
Pokémon GO also offers an in-game appraisal system through team leaders (Candela, Blanche, and Spark). While not as precise as IV scanners, appraisals can give you a general idea of a Pokémon’s IV range. Team leaders provide phrases that indicate the best stat and overall IV percentage of the Pokémon, helping you quickly assess its potential. While appraisals are helpful, they are not a substitute for proper IV scanners if you are aiming for precise numbers.
Impact of IVs on Gameplay
Battling in Raids and Gyms
Higher IVs translate to higher CP and enhanced stats, making Pokémon more effective in raids and Gym battles. Pokémon with close-to-perfect IVs can deal more damage, withstand more attacks, and generally perform better in these scenarios. This difference is particularly noticeable in challenging raids where every bit of extra power counts. A team of high IV Pokémon can significantly improve your chances of success and reward payouts.
Competitive PvP Leagues
In PvP battles (GO Battle League), IVs play a crucial role, particularly in the Great League, Ultra League, and Master League. While maximizing stats is always important, in leagues with CP caps (Great and Ultra), sometimes lower Attack IVs and higher Defense and HP IVs can be beneficial. This is because the CP formula favors Attack, so a Pokémon with lower Attack and higher bulk can reach a similar CP with higher overall stats. IV combinations like 0/15/15 are often highly sought after for PvP Pokémon.
Collection and Trading
While IVs affect combat performance, collecting perfect IV Pokémon is also a popular hobby for many trainers. Finding and showcasing these rare specimens can be a source of pride and achievement. Trading high-IV Pokémon with friends is also a common practice, helping trainers build stronger teams and complete their collections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About IVs in Pokémon GO
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Individual Values (IVs) in Pokémon GO.
1. What is the maximum possible IV value for each stat?
The maximum possible IV value for each stat (Attack, Defense, and HP) is 15.
2. What does “100% IV” mean?
“100% IV” or perfect IV means that a Pokémon has an IV of 15 for all three stats: Attack, Defense, and HP.
3. How do I check the IVs of my Pokémon?
You can check IVs using IV scanner apps like Poké Genie and Calcy IV, or by utilizing the in-game appraisal system from your team leader.
4. Are IVs more important than movesets?
Both IVs and movesets are important. However, movesets often have a more significant immediate impact on battle performance. A strong moveset on a Pokémon with decent IVs can often outperform a Pokémon with perfect IVs but a poor moveset.
5. Do IVs change when evolving a Pokémon?
No, IVs do not change when evolving a Pokémon. The IVs are set when the Pokémon is initially captured or hatched.
6. Can I increase a Pokémon’s IVs?
No, you cannot directly increase a Pokémon’s IVs in Pokémon GO. Once set, they remain constant. Lucky Pokémon have a guaranteed minimum IV floor, making them more likely to have good stats. Trading increases the likelihood of getting a Lucky Pokémon.
7. What are “Lucky” Pokémon and how do they relate to IVs?
Lucky Pokémon are Pokémon that require less Stardust to power up. They also have a higher floor of IVs which increases the odds of them having a good stat distribution, especially in trading.
8. Should I only keep Pokémon with perfect IVs?
While perfect IV Pokémon are desirable, realistically, it’s more practical to keep Pokémon with IVs of 80% or higher. Focusing solely on perfect IVs can be time-consuming and may limit your team options.
9. What is a “Nundo” Pokémon?
A “Nundo” Pokémon is a Pokémon with an IV of 0 for all three stats (Attack, Defense, and HP). They are rare and often collected as a novelty.
10. How do IVs affect CP (Combat Power)?
IVs directly contribute to a Pokémon’s CP. Higher IVs result in higher base stats, which in turn increase the CP.
11. Are IVs important in every aspect of Pokémon GO?
IVs are most important in challenging raids, Gym battles, and competitive PvP. For casual gameplay and collecting, they are less critical.
12. Do Shadow Pokémon have different IVs?
Shadow Pokémon do not have inherently different IVs. They receive an attack bonus, making them generally stronger attackers. However, purifying a Shadow Pokémon increases their IVs.
13. How do weather boosts affect IVs?
Weather boosts do not affect IVs directly. However, they increase the level of wild Pokémon, meaning you’ll encounter higher-level Pokémon that might have better IVs.
14. What is the best IV combination for PvP battles?
The best IV combination for PvP often depends on the specific league. Lower Attack IVs and higher Defense and HP IVs are often preferred in the Great and Ultra Leagues to optimize bulk while staying under the CP limit. IVs like 0/15/15 are highly sought for many species in the Great and Ultra leagues.
15. Where can I learn more about the mechanics of Pokémon GO and how it applies to learning?
You can learn more about the intersection of games and learning by visiting the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The Games Learning Society explores the educational and cognitive aspects of gaming.
Understanding IVs in Pokémon GO is essential for maximizing your Pokémon’s potential and building a competitive team. While perfect IVs are the ultimate goal, focusing on high IVs (80%+) is a practical and effective strategy for most trainers. Good luck on your Pokémon journey!