What does 1 star mean in Pokémon?
In the world of Pokémon, stars hold significant importance. While 5-star Pokémon may receive most of the attention, 1-star Pokémon, also known as 0% IVs or lower, are an integral part of the Pokémon universe. But what do 1-star Pokémon actually mean for Pokémon trainers? Let’s dive in and explore.
0-1 Stars: Low-End IVs
One of the first things to understand about Pokémon is its IV system. IV stands for Individual Values, which determine the statistical power and strength of a Pokémon. There are 6 Individual Values – HP, Attack, Defense, Special Attack, Special Defense, and Speed.
1-star Pokémon, or 0% IVs, have extremely low statistical power compared to 5-star Pokémon (100% IVs). A Pokémon’s IVs affect its Combat Power (CP) directly, with low IVs resulting in low CP values. Low CP is problematic as trainers can’t use these Pokémon for competitive play.
Why Release Low-CP Pokémon?
Releasing 0-star Pokémon seems drastic, but it’s essential to make space for higher-CP, IV-preserved Pokémon. Here are reasons to consider releasing these Pokémon:
- Cloggy Pokémon Storage: Trainers will encounter thousands of Pokémon during their adventures, quickly clogging up Pokémon storage space.
- Competition Relevance: Most competitive matches and gyms favor higher-CP Pokémon with 100% IVs over lower-CP counterparts.
Lucky Pokémon: Don’t Mistake Them for Stars
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Lucky Pokémon do not guarantee a high 5-star ranking
In fact, Lucky Pokémon typically hold a 12-15 out of 15 stat spread and still have a small chance to display low IVs, affecting their CP and viability.
Table: Common Mythology and Reality Around 0-1 Star PokémonBelief Reality Lucky Pokémon guarantee high-IV ranking Not always accurate Releasing low-CP Pokémon means losing their usefulness Most competitive situations prioritize 100% IV Pokémon No 0-1 Star Pokémon exist Most common spread
Shelf Them for Later Use? No!
While you can technically retain these Pokémon, storage limitations ensure it’s in your best interest to release them. Save valuable slots for your high-IV Pokémon instead. Don’t Waste Resources: Lower-CP Pokémon contribute nothing valuable to your team, as the system doesn’t adapt or modify combat calculations. No advantage comes from keeping 1-star Pokémon.
Preserve CP: The Main Reason for High-IV Prioritization
High-CP, IV-Preserved Pokémon Offer Value
1-star Pokémon aren’t worth sacrificing resources when better options with high individual values are readily available.
3-4-star Pokémon become relevant when maxing the Combat Power by focusing on perfect IVs, maximizing strength.
Fighting Your Way to the Top (Of Rankings)
Familiarizing yourself with the IV and Combat Power dynamic can help identify when Pokémon’s individual values compromise performance, as seen below:
| IV Scores < 30% = Not useful for competitive use 1-star Pokémon don’t find an audience when most users opt for 2-star onwards. |
<25% IVs**Low 0-30% | – Poor stats: Can struggle with even Basic encounters
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The ranking landscape remains competitive at every point. However, considering releasing **1-star Pokémon as your most low-CP – worst-case option for trainers
1-STAR Pokémon: A Bigger Reality than You May Think