Demystifying the Poké Ball Plus Cable: A Comprehensive Guide

The Poké Ball Plus is a delightful peripheral that enhances the Pokémon experience across various games. Understanding its functionality, especially its charging mechanism, is crucial for any owner. So, what kind of cable does this little sphere of joy use?

The Poké Ball Plus uses a standard USB Type-C cable for charging. This ubiquitous cable has become a staple for many modern devices, ensuring broad compatibility and easy replacement should the original cable be misplaced. Now that we’ve answered the core question, let’s delve into the finer details of charging, connectivity, and troubleshooting for your Poké Ball Plus.

Unveiling the Mysteries of the Poké Ball Plus: FAQs

Here, we address the most frequently asked questions about the Poké Ball Plus, ensuring you’re equipped with all the knowledge you need to maximize your enjoyment.

Charging and Power

1. Does the Poké Ball Plus need a charger?

   Yes, the Poké Ball Plus requires charging to function. It houses an internal battery that powers its interactions with Pokémon GO and the Let’s Go series. The charging cable is typically included with the device, and any standard USB Type-C cable can be used as a replacement.

2. How do you charge the Poké Ball Plus?

   Charging is simple:

   • Lift the connector cover located at the base of the wrist strap.
   • Connect the USB Type-C charging cable to the USB port on the accessory.
   • Plug the other end of the cable into a USB power source, such as a computer, a USB wall adapter, or the Nintendo Switch dock.

3. What to do if a Poké Ball Plus won’t charge?

   If your Poké Ball Plus isn’t charging, try these troubleshooting steps:

   • Use a different AC adapter: Your current adapter might be faulty.
   • Use a different USB port: If connected to a computer or dock, try another port.
   • Use a different USB cable: The original cable might be damaged. Always double-check that you are indeed using a USB Type-C cable.
   • Ensure the charging port on the Poké Ball Plus is clean and free of debris.
   • Try leaving it plugged in for an extended period, even if it doesn’t immediately indicate charging.

4. How long does the Poké Ball Plus last on a single charge?

   Battery life varies depending on usage. If used extensively with Pokémon GO or the Let’s Go games, you can expect a few days of use before needing to recharge. For casual use, it might last longer. When used with Pokémon Go Plus +, connected to Pokémon GO for two to three hours a day, the battery should last about a week.

Connectivity and Compatibility

5. What does Poké Ball Plus work with?

   The Poké Ball Plus is primarily designed for use with:

   • Pokémon™: Let’s Go, Pikachu!
   • Pokémon™: Let’s Go, Eevee!
   • Pokémon GO (as a Bluetooth accessory)
   • Pokémon Sleep (via the Pokemon Go Plus +)

   It functions as a Joy-Con controller in the Let’s Go games, allowing you to navigate menus, battle, and catch Pokémon.

6. What technology does the Poké Ball Plus use to connect to your smartphone?

   The Poké Ball Plus connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and that the Poké Ball Plus is discoverable in the Pokémon GO app.

7. Why won’t my Poké Ball Plus connect to my phone (Pokémon GO)?

   Connection issues are common. Try these solutions:

   • Restart the Pokémon GO app: This often resolves minor glitches.
   • Restart your smartphone: A simple reboot can fix many connectivity problems.
   • Unpair the Poké Ball Plus from your smartphone’s Bluetooth settings: Then, re-pair it within the Pokémon GO app.
   • Remove the connection from the app and reconnect: In the Map View, tap the Main Menu button. At the top right, tap the Settings button.
   • Ensure your phone’s operating system is up-to-date.
   • Check for app permissions: Ensure that the app has permissions to use Bluetooth.

8. Will Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet use Poké Ball Plus?

   Unfortunately, Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet do not support the Poké Ball Plus. Support for the device seems to have been discontinued after the Let’s Go series.

Features and Functionality

9. Can you get a Mew from a used Poké Ball Plus?

   Unlikely. The Poké Ball Plus originally came with a code to redeem Mew in Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! or Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee!. However, Mew can only be claimed once per Poké Ball Plus. A used Poké Ball Plus will almost certainly have already had its Mew claimed. To verify if the Poké Ball Plus contains Mew, press and hold the control stick button on the Poké Ball Plus for a few seconds, then let go. The ring around the control stick button will light up as a pink/purple color and make a sound like Mew laughing.

10. Can I use a Poké Ball Plus with Pokemon Sleep?

    You cannot use the Poké Ball Plus with Pokemon Sleep. However, Using the Pokemon Go Plus Plus to play Pokemon Sleep unlocks a special Pikachu wearing a sleeping cap. This Pikachu helps you raise your Snorlax, and even sings you to sleep. Connecting your Pokemon Go Plus Plus to Pokemon Sleep allows you to use it as a controller.

11. Why is my Poké Ball Plus blinking red?

    A red blinking light often indicates an error or an unsuccessful interaction. Common causes include:

    • Moving too far from a PokéStop before spinning it.
    • An unsuccessful attempt to catch a Pokémon.
    • A general connectivity issue.

12. Does the Poké Ball Plus use your Poké Balls in Pokémon GO?

    The Poke Ball Plus Plus changes things slightly, but will it be worth it for casual or hardcore players? If you’re out of the loop, here’s what changes: the Poke Ball Plus Plus lets you switch from Poke Balls and instead automatically use Great or Ultra Balls to catch encounters.

13. Why is my Pokémon GO Plus flashing white?

    If your Pokémon GO Plus + blinks white when you press briefly on the main button, then you can begin sleep tracking. You cannot begin sleep tracking when your Pokémon GO Plus + is connected to the app.

14. Why is my Pokemon Go Plus not spinning stops?

    If your Item Bag is full, the Pokémon GO Plus + will not spin PokéStops, even if you push the main button. To continue obtaining items and XP, you will need to create space in your Item Bag by using items, discarding items, or purchasing an upgrade for your Item Bag.

Additional Considerations

15. Is the Poké Ball Plus worth it?

    The value proposition depends on your play style. The Poké Ball Plus is worth the price if two things are true: You play a lot of Pokémon Go, and you wanted a Mew in Sword and Shield. But keep in mind that if you buy a used Poké Ball Plus, the Mew may already have been claimed.

Understanding the cable type and common troubleshooting steps ensures you can keep your Poké Ball Plus charged and ready for action. This engaging peripheral adds a layer of immersion to your Pokémon adventures, and knowing how to maintain it allows you to enjoy it to the fullest. If you are interested in learning more about the intersection of games and education, be sure to check out the website of the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.