In Pokémon GO, the introduction of Dynamax and Max Battles has brought a new level of excitement to the game, allowing players to battle with supersized Pokémon. One key feature of these battles is the ability to unlock and use Max Moves—special powerful attacks that are exclusive to Dynamax Pokémon. If you’re wondering how to unlock and use these Max Moves in Pokémon GO, this guide will walk you through the process.
What Are Max Moves?
Max Moves are special abilities that only Dynamax Pokémon can use during Max Battles. These moves provide significant advantages in battle, ranging from powerful offensive strikes to defensive and healing benefits. There are three main Max Moves you can unlock for your Pokémon:
- Max Strike – A powerful attack move that varies based on your Pokémon’s typing.
- Max Guard – A defensive move that reduces damage from opponents.
- Max Spirit – A healing move that restores health for both your Pokémon and your teammates.
Each Max Move plays a crucial role in your strategy, allowing you to maximize your Pokémon’s potential in these intense battles.
How to Unlock Max Moves
Unlocking Max Moves requires a combination of resources, including Max Particles and Candy. Here’s how to get started:
- Collect Max Particles: Max Particles are essential for unlocking Max Moves. You can gather them by interacting with Power Spots, locations on the map where Dynamax Pokémon can be found. Power Spots are dynamic and might change location, so be sure to check your surroundings regularly. You can also collect Max Particles through daily exploration or by purchasing them in the in-game store.
- Use Max Particles and Candy: Once you’ve collected enough Max Particles, you can unlock and upgrade Max Moves. Unlocking Max Guard and Max Spirit requires 400 Max Particles and 50 Candy each. To fully upgrade these moves to their maximum level, you will need a total of 1,800 Max Particles, 150 Candy, and 40 Candy XL.
- Check the Pokémon’s Dynamax Abilities: Not all Pokémon can Dynamax. Pokémon that are capable of Dynamaxing will have a special pink glow surrounding them, and they’ll be able to learn and use Max Moves. You can verify if your Pokémon can Dynamax by checking its status in the Pokémon’s info screen.
Using Max Moves in Max Battles
Max Battles in Pokémon GO are a new type of team battle where you and up to three other trainers join forces to take on Dynamax Pokémon. During these battles, you’ll be able to use your Pokémon’s Max Moves, but only after filling up the Max Meter. This meter appears during the battle and gradually fills as you perform attacks and collect energy from the battlefield.
Once your Max Meter is full, your Pokémon can Dynamax for three turns, allowing you to unleash Max Moves. Timing these moves is crucial since Max Battles are turn-based and require a strategic approach to take down the Dynamax Pokémon. Additionally, if your Pokémon faints during the battle, you can still support your teammates by cheering them on, which helps fill their Max Meters faster.
Max Battle Rewards
After successfully defeating a Dynamax Pokémon, you’ll be able to catch it using Premier Balls, just like in raids. The Pokémon you capture will retain its Dynamax abilities and have access to Max Moves. Additionally, leaving one of your Pokémon at a Power Spot after a Max Battle can help other trainers and earn you rewards such as Rare Candies, Berries, and XP.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to help you unlock and make the most of Max Moves in Pokémon GO:
- Prioritize Power Spots: Power Spots are your best source for Max Particles and Dynamax Pokémon. Visit these locations regularly to gather the resources you need to unlock Max Moves.
- Team Up with Friends: Max Battles are designed for teamwork. While you can take on one-star Max Battles solo, higher-tier battles will require coordination with other trainers to maximize your chances of success.
- Manage Your Max Particles: You can only store a limited amount of Max Particles, so make sure you use them wisely when unlocking and upgrading your Max Moves. Keep an eye on the daily cap to ensure you’re collecting as many Max Particles as possible
- Upgrade Strategically: While unlocking Max Guard and Max Spirit can be expensive, they are invaluable in Max Battles. Max Spirit’s healing ability can save your team in critical moments, while Max Guard will reduce incoming damage, helping your team stay in the fight longer
By mastering the use of Max Moves and understanding the intricacies of Max Battles, you’ll be well on your way to dominating the Dynamax Pokémon in Pokémon GO. Remember, unlocking these moves takes time and strategy, so keep exploring, collecting resources, and teaming up with other trainers to achieve victory.
