Decoding the Enigma: What Shiny Pokémon Are Illegal?
The allure of shiny Pokémon is undeniable. These rare, alternate-colored versions of our favorite creatures are prized possessions for any trainer. However, the shimmering surface hides a complex truth: some shiny Pokémon are simply illegal, existing only through hacking or illegitimate means. This article delves into the fascinating, and sometimes frustrating, world of illegal shinies, arming you with the knowledge to navigate the murky waters of Pokémon authenticity.
The straightforward answer is that certain Legendary and Mythical Pokémon are coded in the games to never appear shiny. These Pokémon are often referred to as being “shiny locked.” Possessing a shiny version of these creatures signifies that it was obtained through illegitimate methods. As of the latest generations, the consistently shiny-locked Pokémon include:
- Victini
- Keldeo
- Meloetta
- Hoopa
- Volcanion
- Cosmog
- Cosmoem
- Magearna
- Zeraora
- Zacian
- Zamazenta
- Eternatus
- Marshadow
- Arceus (in Legends: Arceus)
Any shiny version of these Pokémon you encounter is undoubtedly hacked, generated through the use of external tools and therefore, considered illegal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Illegal Shiny Pokémon
Are All Shiny Locked Pokémon Always Shiny Locked?
Not necessarily. While the Pokémon listed above are generally shiny locked, it’s important to note that circumstances can change with new game releases or events. Always stay updated with the latest official announcements and community findings regarding shiny availability. It’s also worth knowing more about the Games Learning Society and how games evolve!
What Happens if I Use an Illegal Shiny Pokémon Online?
Using an illegal shiny Pokémon in online battles or trades can have consequences. Most online platforms and competitive circuits have systems in place to detect and ban players using hacked Pokémon. The penalties can range from temporary suspensions to permanent bans from the platform.
How Can I Tell if a Shiny Pokémon is Hacked?
Determining if a shiny Pokémon is legitimate can be tricky, but there are several telltale signs:
- Impossible Combinations: Check if the Pokémon is shiny locked in its game of origin.
- Perfect IVs: While not definitive, a Pokémon with all perfect IVs (Individual Values) or near-perfect IVs is highly suspicious, especially if obtained early in the game.
- Unusual Origin: Be wary of Pokémon obtained from suspicious sources, like Wonder Trades with URLs as their names.
- Impossible Moves: If a Pokémon has moves it cannot legally learn, it’s definitely hacked.
- Check the Trainer ID: This is usually specific to the user and is pretty tough to replicate.
Can I Get Banned for Trading for an Illegal Shiny Pokémon Unknowingly?
While unintentional, receiving and using an illegal shiny Pokémon can still result in penalties. It’s always best to thoroughly inspect any shiny Pokémon you receive in trades before using them online. If in doubt, it’s safer to release the questionable Pokémon.
Is It Okay to Collect Illegal Shiny Pokémon Offline?
Ultimately, what you do with hacked Pokémon in offline play is up to you. As long as you’re not using them to gain an unfair advantage or disrupting the online community, there are no repercussions for collecting them in your personal game. Many players create “trophy boxes” of hacked Pokémon for their amusement.
Why Are Certain Pokémon Shiny Locked in the First Place?
The exact reasons for shiny locking are often speculated upon, but likely stem from a combination of factors, including:
- Event Exclusivity: To preserve the rarity and value of event-exclusive Pokémon.
- Story Significance: To maintain the intended narrative experience. Certain Pokémon might be central to the plot, and allowing them to be shiny could detract from the impact.
- Technical Limitations: In some older games, technical limitations might have made it difficult to implement shiny versions of certain Pokémon.
Does Shiny Hunting Increase My Chances of Getting a Shiny?
Yes, certain shiny hunting methods, such as chaining in Pokémon Let’s Go or using the Masuda method (breeding Pokémon from different language regions), significantly increase your chances of encountering a shiny Pokémon. However, these methods only work on Pokémon that are not shiny locked.
What is the Rarest Shiny Pokémon?
The title of “rarest shiny Pokémon” is subjective and can vary depending on the game and the conditions. Generally, shiny Pokémon that are only available through extremely rare events, have very low encounter rates, or are difficult to access are considered the rarest. In Pokemon Go some of the rarest shinies include:
- Unown
- Heracross
- Pawniard
- Shellos
Is It Worth Keeping a Bad Shiny Pokémon?
Absolutely! Regardless of its stats, moveset, or perceived “lameness,” a shiny Pokémon is a rare and valuable find. Even if you don’t plan to use it in battle, it can be a cherished trophy or a valuable trading asset. Remember, one trainer’s trash is another trainer’s treasure.
Do Shiny Pokémon Have a Guaranteed Catch Rate?
In Pokémon GO, shiny Pokémon encountered in raids have a guaranteed catch rate (assuming you hit them with the Premier Ball). However, this does not apply to shiny Pokémon encountered in the wild.
Are Shiny Pokémon Stronger Than Regular Pokémon?
No, shiny Pokémon are not inherently stronger than their regular counterparts. The only difference is their color palette. Stats, moves, and abilities are all the same.
Is It Possible to Change the Shininess of a Pokémon?
Legitimately, no. Once a Pokémon is generated as shiny (or not shiny), its shininess is fixed. There are no in-game items or mechanics that allow you to change a Pokémon’s shininess.
How Do Shiny Pokémon Affect the Competitive Scene?
In the competitive scene, the shininess of a Pokémon is purely cosmetic. As long as the Pokémon is legal (i.e., not hacked and has legal moves, abilities, and stats), its shininess does not affect its viability in battle.
Can Pokémon Appear Differently Shiny Based on The Game?
Yes, the way shiny Pokémon look can vary slightly between games. This is mostly due to differences in graphical capabilities and color palettes. However, the core color difference between the shiny and regular form remains consistent.
Where Can I Learn More About Pokémon and Game Design?
There are many resources available! For those interested in the academic side of gaming and its impact on education, be sure to explore the Games Learning Society and its initiatives: GamesLearningSociety.org.
Navigating the world of shiny Pokémon can be exciting, but it’s crucial to be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding legality. By understanding which shiny Pokémon are impossible to obtain legitimately, you can protect yourself from encountering hacked Pokémon and ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for everyone. So, happy hunting, and may your encounters be both rare and legitimate!