What Are XL Candy Used For?
XL Candy is primarily used to power up Pokémon to significantly higher levels than are possible with regular Candy, specifically beyond level 40 in Pokémon GO. It allows Trainers to further enhance their strongest and favorite Pokémon, making them more competitive in Raids, Gym battles, and the GO Battle League.
The Rise of XL Candy: Powering Up Beyond Limits
For years, Pokémon GO trainers meticulously collected Candy to power up their teams, patiently grinding to reach the level caps. However, the introduction of XL Candy brought a game-changing element, pushing the boundaries of Pokémon strength and opening up new strategic possibilities. This resource allows trainers to invest in their absolute best Pokémon, elevating them far beyond their previous limits. This advancement created a significant power differential in the game, impacting gameplay, team composition, and overall strategies within the Pokémon GO community.
Understanding XL Candy Mechanics
Unlike standard Candy, XL Candy isn’t found directly in the wild. Instead, it’s primarily acquired through a few key methods:
- Catching Pokémon: There’s a chance of receiving XL Candy upon catching any Pokémon. Higher-level Pokémon and evolved forms have a slightly higher chance.
- Transferring Pokémon: Transferring Pokémon to Professor Willow provides a chance to get XL Candy. Higher level or evolved Pokémon offer better odds.
- Hatching Eggs: Hatching eggs can reward XL Candy. The rarer the Pokémon, the more likely and the greater amount of XL Candy rewarded.
- Walking Pokémon: Walking with your Buddy Pokémon may award XL Candy, especially if the Buddy is a higher level.
- Rare Candy XL Conversion: You can convert 100 regular Rare Candies into one Rare Candy XL. Then, you use the Rare Candy XL on the specific species.
- Event-Specific Bonuses: Pokémon GO events often feature boosted XL Candy drop rates for certain actions or Pokémon.
The acquisition of XL Candy is inherently random and requires considerable dedication and often a bit of luck.
The Stardust Cost
Powering up Pokémon with XL Candy comes with a hefty Stardust cost, in addition to the XL Candy requirement. The Stardust required increases substantially with each power-up level past level 40. This reinforces the notion that XL Candy is meant for elite Pokémon, requiring significant resource investment. Players must strategically choose which Pokémon to invest in to maximize their effectiveness.
Who Benefits Most from XL Candy?
Certain Pokémon excel when powered up with XL Candy. Consider the following factors when deciding which Pokémon to focus on:
- Legendary Pokémon: Often have high base stats and significant potential when maxed out.
- Shadow Pokémon: While requiring more Stardust, Shadow Pokémon deal significantly more damage making them excellent raid attackers when powered up with XL Candy.
- Pokémon with Strong PvP IVs: Pokémon with specific IV combinations that perform well in the GO Battle League can become even stronger with XL Candy.
Common Mistakes When Using XL Candy
Several mistakes Trainers make when dealing with XL Candy:
- Hoarding XL Candy: Don’t be afraid to use your XL Candy! Holding onto it indefinitely doesn’t help.
- Investing in the Wrong Pokémon: Thoroughly research which Pokémon are worth the investment before spending your XL Candy.
- Ignoring IVs: Even with XL Candy, IVs still matter. Aim for high IV Pokémon when possible.
- Not Understanding the Grind: XL Candy requires patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right away.
- Using rare candy immediately without walking with the Pokemon: Walking with your chosen Buddy Pokémon may award XL Candy and help the overall grind.
XL Candy Conversion Rates Table
Here’s a table outlining some average conversion rates and probabilities, though keep in mind these are subject to change based on game updates and events:
| Action | Average XL Candy Gain Probability | Average XL Candy Gain |
|---|---|---|
| Catching a Wild Pokémon | 20-40% | 0-3 |
| Transferring Pokémon | 5-10% | 0-1 |
| Hatching Eggs (5km) | 30-50% | 3-6 |
| Hatching Eggs (10km) | 50-70% | 6-10 |
| Hatching Eggs (12km) | 60-80% | 8-12 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get XL Candy for all Pokémon?
Yes, you can potentially get XL Candy for any Pokémon currently available in Pokémon GO. The odds of obtaining it may vary depending on the Pokémon’s rarity and evolution stage, but it’s generally possible.
Is it better to power up a Legendary or a regular Pokémon with XL Candy?
Generally, Legendary Pokémon are a better investment due to their higher base stats. However, certain regular Pokémon (such as Shadow Pokémon or those with specific PvP IVs) can also become exceptionally powerful when powered up with XL Candy. Consider the individual Pokémon’s stats, moveset, and intended use.
What is the fastest way to get XL Candy?
There is no single “fastest” way, but optimizing several methods simultaneously is recommended. Focus on catching high-level Pokémon, transferring unwanted Pokémon, walking your Buddy Pokémon, and participating in events that offer XL Candy bonuses. Prioritize rare Pokémon and those likely to award more XL Candy upon capture or transfer.
Does the weather boost affect XL Candy drops?
No, weather boost does not directly affect XL Candy drops. Weather boost affects the spawning frequency and level of Pokémon, which indirectly impacts your chances of encountering and catching higher-level Pokémon that may drop more XL Candy.
Are there any specific Pokémon that are known to be “good” investments for XL Candy?
Yes, some Pokémon are widely considered excellent investments. Examples include Mewtwo, Rayquaza, Metagross (Shadow Form), Dialga, Palkia, Kyogre, Groudon, and powerful Mega evolutions such as Mega Rayquaza and Mega Mewtwo Y. However, the best investment depends on your personal goals and team composition.
How much Stardust does it cost to fully power up a Pokémon with XL Candy?
The total Stardust cost varies depending on the Pokémon and its level. Powering up a Pokémon from level 40 to level 50 requires a significant amount of Stardust, usually exceeding 250,000 Stardust.
Can I trade Pokémon to get XL Candy?
No, trading Pokémon does not directly reward XL Candy. You may receive regular Candy from trades, but not XL Candy.
Does the level of the Pokémon I catch affect the amount of XL Candy I get?
Yes, higher-level Pokémon have a slightly increased chance of dropping XL Candy upon capture. Prioritize catching Pokémon at higher levels to improve your XL Candy gains.
What are Rare Candy XL and how do they work?
Rare Candy XL allow players to convert regular Rare Candy into a more powerful, versatile resource. 100 regular Rare Candies are required for one Rare Candy XL. These can then be used to power up ANY Pokemon above level 40 instead of a specific type of XL Candy.
Is it worth converting Rare Candy into Rare Candy XL?
It depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you have a large surplus of Rare Candy and are struggling to obtain XL Candy for a particular Pokémon, converting them might be worthwhile. However, consider the cost of 100 Rare Candies per Rare Candy XL, and only do so if it aligns with your resource management strategy.
Do events ever increase XL Candy drop rates?
Yes, Pokémon GO events frequently feature boosted XL Candy drop rates for various actions, such as catching Pokémon, hatching eggs, or completing research tasks. Keep an eye on event announcements to maximize your XL Candy gains during these periods.
What is the best way to use XL candy effectively in GO Battle League?
Strategic use of XL Candy can significantly improve your GO Battle League performance. Focus on powering up Pokémon that perform well in specific leagues (Great League, Ultra League, Master League). Research optimal IV combinations for PvP and prioritize Pokémon with strong movesets and favorable matchups. XL Candy lets you make your best teams even better, tipping close matches in your favor!