Should You or Should You Not Purify Pokémon?
Pokémon Go has been a phenomenon since its release in 2016, with millions of players worldwide capturing, training, and battling their favorite Pokémon. One of the most debated topics among players is whether or not to purify Shadow Pokémon. In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of purifying Shadow Pokémon and provide a comprehensive answer to this question.
What are Shadow Pokémon?
Before we dive into the benefits and drawbacks of purifying Shadow Pokémon, let’s define what they are. Shadow Pokémon are Pokémon that have been captured and stored in the Shadow Pokémon area of the player’s account. These Pokémon have been affected by the Shadow Aura, which reduces their HP and Attack Power.
Benefits of Purifying Shadow Pokémon
Purifying Shadow Pokémon can have several benefits, including:
• Improved Appraisal: Purified Shadow Pokémon have their Appraisal increased, which can result in a higher IV (Individual Value) score.
• Reduced Stardust and Candy Requirements: Purified Shadow Pokémon require less Stardust and Candy to power up, evolve, or learn new attacks.
• Learn New Attacks: Purified Shadow Pokémon can learn new attacks, including the exclusive Charged Attack Return.
• Increased Power: Purified Shadow Pokémon have increased power, making them more effective in battles.
Drawbacks of Purifying Shadow Pokémon
While purifying Shadow Pokémon can have its benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
• Loss of Shadow Bonus: Purified Shadow Pokémon no longer receive the Shadow Bonus, which can result in reduced damage output.
• Increased Resource Requirements: Purifying Shadow Pokémon requires more resources, including Stardust and Candy.
• Potential Loss of Experience: Purifying Shadow Pokémon can result in the loss of experience points, making it more difficult to level up.
When to Purify Shadow Pokémon
So, when should you purify Shadow Pokémon? Here are some scenarios where purifying might be beneficial:
• Rattata: If you have a Shadow Rattata, it’s a good idea to purify it, as it’s a low-cost Pokémon to purify.
• Leveling Up: If you’re low on resources and need to level up your Pokémon quickly, purifying a Shadow Pokémon can be a good option.
• Competitive Play: If you’re participating in competitive battles, purifying Shadow Pokémon can give you an edge over your opponents.
When Not to Purify Shadow Pokémon
On the other hand, there are situations where it might not be worth purifying Shadow Pokémon:
• High-Level Pokémon: If you have a high-level Shadow Pokémon, it might not be worth purifying, as the benefits might not outweigh the costs.
• Rare or Legendary Pokémon: If you have a rare or legendary Shadow Pokémon, it’s generally not recommended to purify it, as the benefits might not be worth the risk of losing its unique characteristics.
• Shadow Articuno: According to a recent study, Shadow Articuno doesn’t gain enough benefits from purification to make it worth the effort.
Conclusion
Purifying Shadow Pokémon is a complex decision that requires careful consideration of the benefits and drawbacks. While it can have its advantages, such as improved appraisal and reduced resource requirements, it also has its disadvantages, including the loss of Shadow Bonus and potential loss of experience. Ultimately, whether or not to purify Shadow Pokémon depends on your individual playstyle and goals.
Table: Comparison of Purified and Unpurified Shadow Pokémon
| Purified Shadow Pokémon | Unpurified Shadow Pokémon | |
|---|---|---|
| Appraisal | Improved | Reduced |
| Stardust and Candy Requirements | Reduced | Increased |
| Learn New Attacks | Yes | No |
| Increased Power | Yes | No |
| Shadow Bonus | No | Yes |
| Experience Loss | Potential | No |
Summary
In conclusion, purifying Shadow Pokémon can be a valuable strategy in Pokémon Go, but it’s not always the best option. By considering the benefits and drawbacks, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to purify your Shadow Pokémon. Remember to weigh the costs and benefits and consider your individual playstyle and goals before making a decision.
Additional Tips
- Always check the IV score of your Shadow Pokémon before purifying it.
- Consider the rarity and legendary status of your Shadow Pokémon before purifying it.
- Keep in mind that purifying Shadow Pokémon requires more resources, including Stardust and Candy.
- Experiment with different strategies to find what works best for you.
By following these tips and considering the benefits and drawbacks of purifying Shadow Pokémon, you can make the most of your Pokémon Go experience and become a top player. Happy gaming!