Pokémon Go has been an ever-evolving game, introducing new Legendaries and mechanics to keep players engaged. The latest major update, however, brings one of the biggest changes the game has seen in years: Dynamaxing. This new feature, alongside the addition of starters from the Galar region, has left many players feeling confused and unsure of how to navigate this new aspect of the game.
If you’ve been playing Pokémon Go recently, you may have noticed strange, new pink spires appearing around you. These spires offer battles against enormous versions of Pokémon like Bulbasaur and Wooloo. This new feature is part of the Dynamax phenomenon introduced from the Galar region. Dynamaxing is a special transformation that certain Pokémon undergo when exposed to Galar Particles (or Max Particles in Pokémon Go). Visually, Dynamaxed Pokémon grow in size and gain access to powerful Max Moves, making them stronger in battles.
However, not every Pokémon in Pokémon Go can Dynamax, and those caught before the feature was added are excluded. The first two Pokémon with the ability to Dynamax, Wooloo and Skwovet, can be encountered by playing the “To the Max!” special research. After that, only Pokémon defeated and caught in Max Battles can be Dynamaxed. This system is similar to how Gigantamax was handled in Pokémon Sword and Shield, where only specific Pokémon could achieve this special form.
While Gigantamax Pokémon are not currently available in Pokémon Go, it is highly likely that they will be added in the future. Filters for both Dynamax and Gigantamax can already be found in the game, hinting at their upcoming inclusion. Players can expect more exciting additions to the game as it continues to evolve.
Power Spots are key locations in Pokémon Go where Dynamax Pokémon can be encountered and battled. These spots resemble Gyms but are bright purple and have floating orbs near them. Interacting with a Power Spot allows players to collect Max Particles, the currency used to participate in Max Battles and upgrade Max Moves for Pokémon. Power Spot Bosses, also known as Max Battles, are similar to Raid Bosses and can be challenged with a group of up to four trainers.
Max Particles play a crucial role in the Dynamax feature, as they are used to participate in Max Battles and upgrade Max Moves for Pokémon. Upgrading Max Moves can be costly, requiring players to spend a significant amount of Max Particles and candy. It is essential to weigh the benefits of upgrading moves against other uses for candy in the game.
Max Battles in Pokémon Go introduce a new battle format with unique UI elements and mechanics. Players must approach a Power Spot with a Dynamax Pokémon above it to challenge the giant creature. Before the battle begins, players must choose a party of three Pokémon, with up to four trainers able to participate in the battle. The battle involves using fast attacks to build up charged attacks and fill the Max Meter, which allows Pokémon to Dynamax and use powerful Max Moves.
After successfully defeating a Dynamax Pokémon in a Max Battle, players have the opportunity to catch the gigantic creature and add it to their team. Premier Balls transform into larger Dynamaxed versions for this purpose. The rewards screen offers players the chance to double their rewards for 200 Pokécoins, providing an additional incentive for completing Max Battles.
As of now, only one-star Max Battles are available in Pokémon Go, making them relatively easy for solo players. However, as the game continues to update and add stronger Pokémon to battle, players can expect more challenging encounters in the future. Dynamaxing adds a new layer of strategy and excitement to Pokémon Go, keeping players engaged and eager to explore the world of Pokémon in a whole new way.