Pokémon GO players often reach a point where they've maxed out their Pokémon's CP and are looking to further enhance their battling prowess. This usually involves upgrading their Pokémon's moves. However, once a move is maxed out, the question arises: how do you level it up further? The simple answer is you can't directly level up a maxed-out move in Pokémon GO. There's no hidden mechanic or secret trick. The process of improving a Pokémon's moveset is tied to the mechanics of Elite Charged TMs and Elite Fast TMs.
This guide will delve into the intricacies of move upgrades in Pokémon GO, addressing common queries and providing a clear understanding of how to optimize your Pokémon's battle capabilities.
What Does "Maxed-Out Move" Mean in Pokémon GO?
Before we address the core question, let's clarify what "maxed-out" means in the context of Pokémon GO moves. A move is considered maxed out when it's reached its highest possible power level. This isn't indicated by a visible level bar but is implied by the fact that you can no longer power it up using Candy and Stardust. Once your Pokémon’s moves are at their maximum power level, you cannot increase their power any further through traditional methods.
Can I Improve a Maxed-Out Move's Power?
No, you can't directly improve the power of a maxed-out move. The power level of a move is determined at the time it's learned and is fixed once maxed out. However, you can change the move entirely to potentially obtain a more powerful move with the use of Elite Charged TMs and Elite Fast TMs.
How to Change a Maxed-Out Move: Elite TMs Explained
The key to enhancing your maxed-out move is through Elite Charged TMs and Elite Fast TMs. These special items allow you to change a Pokémon's charged attack (Elite Charged TM) or fast attack (Elite Fast TM), even if the existing move is already at its maximum level. This allows for strategical alterations based on your evolving battle needs and the meta.
- Elite Charged TMs: These are used to replace your Pokémon's charged attack. This is the powerful, high-damage move that requires charging up before use.
- Elite Fast TMs: These are used to replace your Pokémon's fast attack. This move is quicker to use and typically generates energy for your charged attacks.
What are the Odds of Getting a Better Move?
The odds of getting a significantly better move using an Elite TM are not explicitly stated by Niantic, the developers of Pokémon GO. It's a random process, with the potential to receive a weaker move, the same move, or a stronger move. However, the possibilities are generally limited to moves the Pokémon is capable of learning based on its species and any potential community day moves it has access to. Therefore, strategic use is key.
How Do I Obtain Elite TMs?
Elite TMs are rare and valuable items obtained primarily through:
- High-level Rocket Leader Battles: Defeating Team Rocket Leaders consistently offers a chance at receiving Elite TMs.
- Team Rocket Boss Battles (Giovanni): This is a more challenging method but can yield even rarer and more valuable rewards, sometimes including Elite TMs.
- Special Events: Niantic occasionally offers Elite TMs as rewards during special in-game events.
Should I Use Elite TMs on Maxed-Out Moves?
This depends entirely on your Pokémon and your battling strategy. If you have a Pokémon with a maxed-out move that's simply not effective against your preferred opponents or the current meta, using an Elite TM to get a more suitable move is a wise investment. However, if the Pokémon has a perfectly good move, using a valuable Elite TM might not be worthwhile.
What are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid?
- Using Elite TMs on low-level Pokémon: Save your Elite TMs for your highest-level, most valuable Pokémon.
- Using Elite TMs without considering the meta: Research the current meta to see which moves are currently most effective.
- Using Elite TMs impulsively: Carefully consider the potential benefits before using an Elite TM.
In conclusion, while you can't directly "level up" a maxed-out move, utilizing Elite TMs offers a viable strategy for optimizing your Pokémon's moveset and enhancing your battling performance. Careful consideration and strategic planning are essential to maximize the benefits of these rare and powerful items.
