Should I use Incense during Spotlight Hour?

Should I Use Incense During Spotlight Hour?

Spotlight Hour is a unique event in Pokémon Go, during which a specific Pokémon is highlighted, and its spawn rate is boosted. This event can be exciting for players, as it provides a high chance of encountering the featured Pokémon and catching it. However, the usage of Incense during Spotlight Hour is a topic of debate among players, leading to confusion about whether to use it or not. In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of using Incense during Spotlight Hour.

Boosted Spawn Rates

The primary benefit of using Incense during Spotlight Hour is the significant boost in spawn rates for the featured Pokémon. According to Niantic, the spawn rate of the Pokémon increases by up to 90% when using Incense and PokeStop Lures combined. This means that players have a much higher chance of encountering the featured Pokémon and completing their research tasks.

Distance Requirement

Another important aspect to consider when deciding whether to use Incense during Spotlight Hour is the distance requirement. To effectively use Incense, players must walk a minimum distance of 6km/h (3.7mph) or more. This means that players who sit still or walk slowly may not generate the required distance to activate the Incense.

Daily Adventure Incense

For those who have a Daily Adventure Incense, there’s an additional factor to consider. According to the game’s developers, the Incense trick only works when players are moving, but not necessarily at 6km/h (3.7mph). This means that even if players are walking slowly or in circles, the Incense will still work.

Incense Nerf

It is essential to note that the Incense item has undergone significant changes in recent updates, commonly referred to as the "Incense nerf." Prior to these changes, Incense was an invaluable tool for players, allowing them to draw in Pokémon from a significant distance. The updates have made Incense less powerful, making it less effective in boosting spawn rates.

Table: Effective Distance Requirements

Conclusion

In conclusion, using Incense during Spotlight Hour can be an excellent strategy for boosting spawn rates, as long as players meet the distance requirement or have a Daily Adventure Incense. However, the effectiveness of Incense has been nerfed in recent updates, making it less powerful than before.

Recommendations

• If you don’t have a Daily Adventure Incense, we recommend using a Normal Incense during Spotlight Hour, but only if you can maintain a pace of at least 6km/h (3.7mph).
• If you do have a Daily Adventure Incense, walk slowly or in circles while keeping the Incense active to reap the benefits.
• Keep in mind the nerfed Incense may not be as effective as it was before, so adjust your expectations accordingly.
• Prioritize the featured Pokémon’s spawn rate and research tasks, as these are the main benefits of using Incense during Spotlight Hour.

By following these recommendations, you can maximize your chances of encountering the featured Pokémon and completing your research tasks during Spotlight Hour.