If you’re diving into the world of Dynamax Pokémon in Pokémon GO, mastering Max Moves is essential. These powerful abilities can turn the tide of Max Battles, and leveling them up enhances their effectiveness. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand and upgrade Max Moves.
Max Moves are exclusive to Dynamax and Gigantamax Pokémon. Each of these Pokémon can access three distinct Max Moves:
- Max Strike: An offensive move based on the Pokémon’s Fast Attack.
- Max Guard: A defensive move that shields against attacks.
- Max Spirit: A supportive move that heals your Pokémon and allies.
When you first catch a Dynamax Pokémon, only Max Strike at Level 1 is available. To unlock and level up Max Guard and Max Spirit, you’ll need specific resources.
Gathering Essential Resources
To unlock and enhance Max Moves, you’ll require:
- Max Particles (MP): A special currency used for unlocking and leveling Max Moves.
- Pokémon Candy: Species-specific candies needed for upgrades.
- XL Candy: Required for higher-level upgrades, especially from Level 2 to Level 3.
How to Collect Max Particles
- Power Spots: These are special locations on the map, marked by a purple glow. Interacting with them grants Max Particles.
- Walking: For every 2 kilometers you walk, you earn Max Particles.
- Research Tasks: Completing certain Special or Timed Research tasks can reward you with Max Particles.
- In-Game Shop: Max Particles can also be purchased from the in-game shop.
Keep in mind, there’s a daily cap of 800 Max Particles, and you can hold a maximum of 1,000 at any given time.
Acquiring Pokémon Candy and XL Candy
- Catching Pokémon: Capture more of the same species to collect candies.
- Transferring Pokémon: Send unwanted Pokémon to Professor Willow for additional candies.
- Walking with Your Buddy: Set the Pokémon as your buddy and walk to earn candies.
- Using Rare Candies: Convert rare candies into species-specific candies.
- Trading Pokémon: Trading can sometimes yield XL Candy, especially for long-distance trades.
Unlocking Max Moves
To unlock Max Guard or Max Spirit:
- Select Your Pokémon: Open your Pokémon collection and choose a Dynamax or Gigantamax Pokémon.
- Access Max Moves: Tap on the Dynamax or Gigantamax icon to view available Max Moves.
- Unlock the Move: Tap on the locked move (Max Guard or Max Spirit). If you have the required Max Particles and Candy, tap “Train” to unlock it.
The typical requirements are:
- 400 Max Particles
- 50 Pokémon Candy
Note: These requirements can vary based on the Pokémon’s tier.
Leveling Up Max Moves
Each Max Move can be leveled up to Level 3. Here’s how:
- Access Max Moves: Select your Dynamax Pokémon and tap on the Max Moves section.
- Choose the Move: Tap on the move you wish to level up.
- Train the Move: If you have the necessary resources, tap “Train” to upgrade the move.
Level-Up Requirements
- Level 1 to Level 2:
- 600 Max Particles
- 100 Pokémon Candy
- Level 2 to Level 3:
- 800 Max Particles
- 40 XL Candy
These requirements can vary depending on the Pokémon’s tier and species.
Strategic Tips
- Resource Management: Prioritize leveling up Max Moves for Pokémon you frequently use in Max Battles.
- Event Participation: Engage in events like Max Monday and Max Battle Weekend to earn additional rewards and resources.
- Team Coordination: In group battles, coordinate with teammates to maximize the effectiveness of Max Spirit and Max Guard.
- Monitor Power Spots: Regularly check for active Power Spots to collect Max Particles and participate in Max Battles.
