Pokémon Go has taken the world by storm, and with its massive player base, it’s no surprise that players are always looking for ways to improve their gameplay and catch the best Pokémon. One crucial aspect of the game that can make all the difference is IV, or Individual Values. But what exactly is IV, and how does it impact your Pokémon’s performance? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of IV in Pokémon Go, exploring what it is, how it’s calculated, and why it’s essential for catching the perfect Pokémon.
What are Individual Values (IV) in Pokémon Go?
In Pokémon Go, Individual Values (IV) refer to the unique set of attributes that determine a Pokémon’s strengths and weaknesses. Each Pokémon has a unique set of IVs, which are randomly generated when the Pokémon is caught or hatched. These values affect a Pokémon’s performance in battle, making some Pokémon more powerful than others.
IVs are comprised of three distinct components: Attack, Defense, and HP (Health Points). Each component has a rating from 0 to 15, with higher values indicating a stronger Pokémon. These ratings are used to calculate a Pokémon’s overall stats, which in turn affect its performance in battle.
Why are IVs important in Pokémon Go?
Understanding IVs is crucial in Pokémon Go because they can significantly impact a Pokémon’s performance. A Pokémon with high IVs will generally perform better in battle than one with low IVs, even if they have the same level and moves. This is because IVs affect a Pokémon’s overall stats, which are used to calculate damage output, damage resistance, and other essential battle metrics.
IVs are particularly important for players who want to:
- Participate in competitive battling, where small differences in stats can make a significant difference in battle outcomes.
- Catch the perfect Pokémon, with high IVs making them more desirable and valuable.
- Build a well-rounded team, where high-IV Pokémon can fill specific roles and provide a competitive advantage.
How are IVs calculated in Pokémon Go?
IVs are calculated using a complex algorithm that takes into account various factors, including a Pokémon’s species, level, and rarity. When a Pokémon is caught or hatched, the game generates a random set of IVs based on this algorithm.
The exact formula for calculating IVs is not publicly disclosed by Niantic, the developers of Pokémon Go. However, the Pokémon Go community has reverse-engineered the calculation process to some extent, revealing that IVs are influenced by the following factors:
- Species: Different Pokémon species have unique IV distributions, with some species more likely to have high IVs than others.
- Level: A Pokémon’s level affects its IVs, with higher-level Pokémon generally having higher IVs.
- Rarity: Rare Pokémon are more likely to have higher IVs than common Pokémon.
- Random chance: A random element is introduced into the IV calculation process, making it possible for two Pokémon of the same species, level, and rarity to have different IVs.
How to check a Pokémon’s IV in Pokémon Go
Checking a Pokémon’s IV in Pokémon Go is a straightforward process. To do so, follow these steps:
- Open the Pokémon Go app and access your Pokémon collection.
- Select the Pokémon you want to check the IV for.
- Tap the “Info” button to access the Pokémon’s details page.
- Scroll down to the “Stats” section, where you’ll find the Pokémon’s IV ratings.
Note that IVs are only visible for Pokémon that are at least level 15. For Pokémon below level 15, the IV ratings will be hidden.
IV Ranks in Pokémon Go
To make it easier to understand and compare IVs, the Pokémon Go community has developed a ranking system. This system categorizes Pokémon into different IV ranks based on their overall IV rating.
The most common IV ranks are:
- Perfect IV: A Pokémon with a perfect IV rating of 15/15/15 is considered perfect and is highly desirable.
- Near-Perfect IV: A Pokémon with an IV rating of 14/15/15 or higher is considered near-perfect and is still highly sought after.
- Good IV: A Pokémon with an IV rating of 13/15/15 or higher is considered good and is a decent catch.
- Fair IV: A Pokémon with an IV rating below 13/15/15 is considered fair and may not be as desirable.
IV Ranking Systems
There are various IV ranking systems used in the Pokémon Go community, each with its own criteria for evaluating IVs. Some popular systems include:
- PokeAssistant: This ranking system uses a complex algorithm to evaluate IVs and assigns a score from 0 to 100.
- IV Calculator: This ranking system uses a simplified formula to evaluate IVs and assigns a score from 0 to 100.
- Community-driven ranking systems: Various community-driven ranking systems, such as the “IV Tier List,” categorize Pokémon into different tiers based on their IV ratings.
Conclusion
IVs play a significant role in Pokémon Go, and understanding them can help you catch the perfect Pokémon and improve your gameplay. By knowing how IVs are calculated, how to check them, and how to rank them, you can make informed decisions about which Pokémon to keep, trade, or discard.
Remember, IVs are just one aspect of a Pokémon’s overall strength, and other factors like level, moves, and typing also play a crucial role. By combining your knowledge of IVs with other gameplay elements, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Pokémon Go master.
| IV Rank | Attack IV | Defense IV | HP IV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perfect IV | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Near-Perfect IV | 14 | 15 | 15 |
| Good IV | 13 | 14 | 14 |
| Fair IV | 12 | 13 | 13 |
In this article, we’ve explored the world of IV in Pokémon Go, covering its importance, calculation, and ranking systems. By mastering IVs, you’ll be able to catch the perfect Pokémon and take your gameplay to the next level. Happy catching!
What are Individual Values (IVs) in Pokémon Go?
Individual Values, commonly referred to as IVs, are unique values assigned to each Pokémon in Pokémon Go. These values determine the Pokémon’s stats, such as its HP, Attack, and Defense. IVs range from 0 to 15, with 15 being the highest value. A Pokémon’s IVs are fixed and do not change, even when it evolves or is powered up.
Understanding IVs is crucial in Pokémon Go because they play a significant role in determining a Pokémon’s overall strength and potential. Trainers can use IVs to evaluate their Pokémon and make informed decisions about which ones to keep, trade, or use in battle. By knowing a Pokémon’s IVs, trainers can identify its strengths and weaknesses, making it easier to create a well-rounded team.
How do I check a Pokémon’s IVs in Pokémon Go?
To check a Pokémon’s IVs in Pokémon Go, you need to use the Appraisal feature. This feature was introduced in 2016 and is available for trainers who have reached level 15 or higher. To appraise a Pokémon, open the Pokémon’s profile, tap the three horizontal lines on the top right corner, and select “Appraise.” The game will then display the Pokémon’s IVs, along with a brief description of its strengths and weaknesses.
The Appraisal feature provides a simplified view of a Pokémon’s IVs, using phrases such as “wonderful” or “excellent” to describe its stats. While this feature does not provide exact numerical values, it gives trainers a general idea of a Pokémon’s IVs. Trainers can use third-party IV calculators or online tools to get a more detailed breakdown of a Pokémon’s IVs.
What is the difference between IVs and EVs?
Individual Values (IVs) and Effort Values (EVs) are often confused with each other, but they serve distinct purposes in Pokémon Go. IVs, as mentioned earlier, are unique values assigned to each Pokémon that determine its stats. EVs, on the other hand, are values that represent the effort and experience a Pokémon has gained through battling and training. EVs can be increased through training, but IVs are fixed and do not change.
The main difference between IVs and EVs is that IVs are inherent to a Pokémon, while EVs are earned. IVs determine a Pokémon’s natural abilities, while EVs represent the Pokémon’s learned skills. A Pokémon with high IVs may still have low EVs if it has not been trained or battled extensively. Understanding the difference between IVs and EVs is essential in creating a well-rounded team and maximizing a Pokémon’s potential.
Can I change a Pokémon’s IVs in Pokémon Go?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to change a Pokémon’s IVs in Pokémon Go. IVs are fixed and randomly assigned to each Pokémon when it is caught or hatched. This means that if you catch a Pokémon with low IVs, you cannot change or improve its IVs. The only way to get a Pokémon with higher IVs is to catch or hatch a new one.
However, it’s worth noting that Pokémon Go does offer some features that can help you improve a Pokémon’s stats. For example, you can use items like candies and stardust to increase a Pokémon’s level and stats. Additionally, the game’s buddy system and research tasks can provide additional ways to earn experience and improve a Pokémon’s EVs.
How do IVs affect a Pokémon’s stats in Pokémon Go?
IVs play a significant role in determining a Pokémon’s stats in Pokémon Go. Each IV contributes to a specific stat, such as HP, Attack, or Defense. The higher the IV, the higher the stat. For example, a Pokémon with a high HP IV will have more HP than a Pokémon with a low HP IV. IVs also interact with other factors, such as a Pokémon’s level and species, to determine its overall stats.
The impact of IVs on a Pokémon’s stats becomes more pronounced at higher levels. For example, a level 10 Pokémon with high IVs will have significantly better stats than a level 10 Pokémon with low IVs. This is because IVs provide a percentage bonus to a Pokémon’s base stats, and this bonus increases as the Pokémon levels up.
Are high IVs necessary for success in Pokémon Go?
Having high IVs can be beneficial in Pokémon Go, but it’s not the only factor that determines success. Other factors, such as a Pokémon’s species, level, and moveset, also play a significant role. Additionally, a trainer’s skills and strategy can often compensate for a Pokémon’s lower IVs.
That being said, high IVs can provide a significant advantage, especially in competitive play. Pokémon with high IVs tend to perform better in battles, especially against opponents with similar-level Pokémon. If you’re serious about competing in Pokémon Go, it’s worth seeking out Pokémon with high IVs. However, for casual players, having fun and enjoying the game is more important than focusing solely on IVs.
Can I trade Pokémon with high IVs in Pokémon Go?
Yes, you can trade Pokémon with high IVs in Pokémon Go. Trading is a great way to acquire Pokémon with better IVs, especially if you’re having trouble finding them in the wild. To trade Pokémon, you need to be friends with another player and have a compatible trade package. Make sure to check the Pokémon’s IVs before trading, as this cannot be changed once the trade is complete.
When trading for Pokémon with high IVs, be cautious of scams and unfair trades. Always inspect the Pokémon’s stats and IVs before agreeing to a trade, and make sure you’re getting a fair deal. You can also use online resources, such as Pokémon trading forums, to find other trainers looking to trade Pokémon with high IVs.