Why can’t you trade Shadow or Mythical Pokemon?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
You can’t trade Shadow or Mythical Pokemon because Niantic, the developer of Pokemon GO, has implemented restrictions to prevent players from easily obtaining 100% perfect Pokemon and to maintain the game’s balance and integrity, with Shadow Pokemon initially being tradeable until the issue was discovered and addressed, and Mythical Pokemon, such as Mew and Zeraora, being entirely non-tradable due to their unique status and the potential for exploitation. The trading restrictions on Shadow and Mythical Pokemon are in place to ensure that players must earn these rare Pokemon through gameplay, rather than simply trading for them, and to prevent the use of exploits to obtain perfect Pokemon.
Understanding the Restrictions
Introduction to Shadow and Mythical Pokemon
Shadow Pokemon and Mythical Pokemon are unique entities within the Pokemon universe, each with their own specific characteristics and challenges. Shadow Pokemon are Pokemon that have been corrupted by the evil organization Team Rocket, while Mythical Pokemon are extremely rare and often have extraordinary abilities.
Trading Restrictions
The decision to restrict trading of Shadow and Mythical Pokemon stems from the need to maintain the balance of the game and prevent exploits. Allowing players to trade these Pokemon freely could lead to an influx of perfect Pokemon, devaluing the effort and achievement of obtaining them through legitimate means.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
- Can you trade Shadow Pokemon?: No, Shadow Pokemon cannot be traded in Pokemon GO due to the potential for exploiting the game’s mechanics to obtain 100% perfect Pokemon.
- Can you trade Mythical Pokemon?: No, Mythical Pokemon, such as Mew and Zeraora, cannot be traded due to their unique status and the potential for exploitation.
- Why can’t you trade certain Legendary Pokemon?: Certain Legendary Pokemon, such as Celebi, Darkrai, and Deoxys, cannot be traded due to their rare and unique status, although some, like Celebi, can be traded under specific circumstances.
- Can you trade Zarude?: No, Zarude is a Mythical Pokemon and cannot be traded.
- Is Meltan a Mythical Pokemon?: Yes, Meltan is a Mythical Pokemon that evolves into Melmetal.
Trading Mechanics
- Can you trade Shiny Mythical Pokemon?: No, Shiny Mythical Pokemon, like other Mythical Pokemon, cannot be traded due to their unique status.
- Can you trade Zeraora?: No, Zeraora is a Mythical Pokemon and cannot be traded through the anonymous trade platform, requiring a direct trade with a friend or another player.
- Can Keldeo be traded?: No, Keldeo is a Mythical Pokemon and its Mythical status prevents it from being traded over the GTS.
- Can Genesect be traded?: No, Genesect is considered a Mythical Pokemon and cannot be traded.
Pokemon Status and Evolution
- Is Genesect a Legendary or Mythical Pokemon?: Genesect is considered a Mythical Pokemon, although it appears in five-star raids like Legendary Pokemon.
- Can Ash’s Meltan evolve?: Yes, Ash’s Meltan evolves into Melmetal.
- Is Zarude a Legendary Pokemon?: Zarude is classified as a Mythical Legendary Pokemon.
Game Mechanics and Exploits
- Should you purify Shadow Pokemon?: Purifying Shadow Pokemon improves their appraisal and reduces the Stardust and Candy required for them to power up, evolve, or learn a new attack.
- Can you trade Shadow Zapdos?: No, Shadow Pokemon, including Shadow Zapdos, cannot be traded and will be purified before any trade.
- What is the rarest Pokemon?: The rarest Pokemon vary, but Mewtwo is often considered one of the rarest and most powerful, with Mew and other Mythical Pokemon also being extremely rare and valuable.