Can you increase IVs in Pokemon Go?
The In-Game Values (IVs) of a Pokémon in Pokémon Go are the hidden values that determine how strong it is. Unlike other games in the franchise, IVs in Pokémon Go are fixed and cannot be changed once a Pokémon has been caught. In this article, we will explore the ways to obtain high-IV Pokémon and what effects IVs have on Pokémon performance.
IV and its significance
IV represents the unique characteristics of each Pokémon, such as Attack, Defense, and Speed. These values are usually represented by a number, ranging from 0-31, with 0 being the lowest and 31 being the highest.
Types of IV values
IVs are typically categorized into four levels of quality: 0-4. Here are the corresponding levels of appraisal:
| IV Level | Corresponding Appraisal |
|---|---|
| 0* | Bad |
| 1-14* | Average |
| 15-25* | Good |
| 26-31* | Excellent |
How are IVs determined?
IVs are determined during the catching process, specifically when the Pokémon is entered into the game. In other words, IVs are random and are affected by the rarity of the Pokémon, its species, and the game’s generation.
Can IVs be changed?
As mentioned earlier, IVs are fixed and cannot be changed once a Pokémon has been caught. This is a unique aspect of Pokémon Go, as in other games in the franchise, IVs can be re-rolled or adjusted in some way.
Getting high-IV Pokémon
While IVs cannot be changed, there are methods to increase the chances of catching high-IV Pokémon:
• Raid Pokémon: Raid Pokémon typically have higher IVs, making them more valuable. Participating in Raids can increase the chances of catching high-IV Pokémon.
• Field Research: Completing Field Research tasks can reward high-IV Pokémon.
• Eggs: Hatching Eggs can result in Pokémon with higher IVs, especially those with higher-star ratings.
• Shadow Pokémon: Purifying Shadow Pokémon can increase their IVs by +2, making them more valuable.
• Trading: Receiving Pokémon through trading has a small chance of increased IVs.
Importance of IVs in Pokémon Go
IVs play a crucial role in determining a Pokémon’s potential and overall performance. They affect a Pokémon’s overall stats, including Attack, Defense, and Speed, which can impact its competitiveness in battles and raids. Here are some key implications of IVs:
IV and Pokémon Performance: IVs significantly impact a Pokémon’s performance in battle. Pokémon with higher IVs tend to perform better, especially in raids. This is because IVs affect the Pokémon’s statistics, making them more robust and powerful.
EV Training and IVs: EV Training, which refines a Pokémon’s overall stats, is more effective on Pokémon with higher IVs. This is because IVs already provide an initial boost to the Pokémon’s stats, making further training more effective.
Conclusion
In conclusion, IVs in Pokémon Go are fixed and cannot be changed once a Pokémon has been caught. While it is not possible to change IVs, there are methods to increase the chances of catching high-IV Pokémon. Understanding the role of IVs in the game and how they affect Pokémon performance can help trainers strategize and build a powerful team.