Understanding EVs and IVs
Effort Values (EVs) and Individual Values (IVs) are hidden stats in Pokémon. They influence a Pokémon's final stats, impacting their strength, speed, and durability in battles. IVs are innate while EVs are earned through battles and training.
IVs: Pokémon's Genetics
IVs range from 0 to 31 for each stat, acting as genetic markers. They determine a Pokémon's potential and are set when the Pokémon is first encountered or bred. Higher IVs make a Pokémon inherently stronger in that particular stat.
EVs: Training Effects
EVs are gained from defeating other Pokémon, with each species awarding different types of EVs. A Pokémon can gain a maximum of 510 EVs, with a limit of 252 per stat, strategically shaping its strengths.
EV Training Techniques
EV training is optimized by battling specific Pokémon known to yield desired EVs, using items like Macho Brace, or utilizing Pokérus—a rare virus doubling EV gains. This allows trainers to enhance certain stats preferentially.
IV Breeding Secrets
Breeding Pokémon with high IVs can pass down superior stats. Items like Destiny Knot and Power items affect IV inheritance. Understanding breeding chains is crucial for competitive players to hatch Pokémon with optimal IVs.
Hyper Training Innovation
Introduced in Generation VII, Hyper Training allows Pokémon at level 100 to 'maximize' their IVs using Bottle Caps. This simulates perfect IVs for battle calculations, without altering genetic IVs—ideal for non-breedable or shiny Pokémon.
EV Reducing Berries
If a Pokémon has unwanted EVs, certain berries like Pomeg and Kelpsy can reduce them. This is essential when correcting mistakes in EV distribution or retraining a Pokémon for a different battle strategy.