Pokémon GO has captivated millions of players globally since its launch in 2016. One of the most exciting features of this augmented reality game is the quest to catch shiny Pokémon—rare variants of regular Pokémon with unique colors. In this article, we will dive into the world of shiny Pokémon, particularly focusing on what are considered the rarest shiny Pokémon in Pokémon GO.
What Makes a Shiny Pokémon Rare?
Shiny Pokémon are variants that players can catch, and they have a different color palette than their non-shiny counterparts. The chances of encountering a shiny Pokémon are generally about 1 in 500 for wild encounters, but this rate can vary depending on the Pokémon species and events happening in the game.
Factors Influencing Shiny Rarity:
- Event Exclusivity: Some shiny Pokémon can only be obtained during special in-game events.
- Limited Time: Certain shiny Pokémon are available only during specific time windows, making them elusive.
- Community Days: Shiny rates tend to increase during Community Days, but some Pokémon remain limited in availability outside these events.
Understanding these factors helps players know when to prioritize their efforts in hunting shiny Pokémon.
The Rarest Shiny Pokémon in Pokémon GO
Here, we list some of the rarest shiny Pokémon currently available in Pokémon GO. Their rarity is based on several considerations, including their availability, spawn rates, and event exclusivity.
1. Unown
- Shiny Color: Blue
- Why It's Rare: Unown is one of the rarest Pokémon in the game, appearing infrequently and typically only during special events. With 28 different forms (one for each letter of the alphabet and two punctuation marks), players are often searching for specific letters, adding to its rarity.
2. Axew
- Shiny Color: Green
- Why It's Rare: Axew has a low spawn rate in the wild. While it was available during specific events, many players have yet to encounter a shiny version despite many attempts.
3. Gible
- Shiny Color: Light Blue
- Why It's Rare: Gible was only featured during certain Community Days, and outside of these, it has a low spawn rate. As a Dragon/Ground-type, its shiny variant has become a trophy for avid hunters.
4. Feebas
- Shiny Color: Pink
- Why It's Rare: Feebas has a very low spawn rate in specific water areas, making it difficult for players to find even in its normal form, let alone the shiny variant.
5. Event-Specific Pokémon
- Pokémon such as Pikachu wearing special hats, costumes, or outfits can only be obtained during specific events and have a shiny variant, making them incredibly rare.
6. Fossil Pokémon (e.g., Kabuto)
- Shiny Color: Brownish-orange
- Why It's Rare: Fossil Pokémon appear sporadically and have a lower catch rate, adding to their allure as shiny variants are exceedingly hard to find.
Tips for Finding Shiny Pokémon
- Participate in Events: Keep an eye out for Pokémon GO events and Community Days when shiny rates increase.
- Stay Updated: Follow Pokémon GO news sources for announcements about upcoming events featuring rare shiny Pokémon.
- Use Incense and Lures: Utilizing these items can increase spawn rates, improving your chances of encountering shiny Pokémon.
- Join Community Groups: Engaging with local Pokémon GO communities can provide tips on locations where certain rare Pokémon spawn.
Conclusion
The journey to catch shiny Pokémon can be challenging, but the thrill of discovering a rare shiny like Unown or Axew is worth the effort. Players must stay updated with in-game events, actively participate in community activities, and utilize effective catching strategies to increase their odds.
Remember, shiny hunting is not just about the reward; it’s about the adventure, the community, and the moments you share with fellow trainers. So gear up, keep your Poké Balls handy, and get ready for the next shiny hunt!
Happy hunting, trainers! Keep your eyes peeled for those elusive shiny Pokémon!
