Pokémon GO's combat power (CP) system is a crucial aspect of the game, reflecting a Pokémon's strength in battle. Many trainers strive to achieve the highest possible CP, a constantly evolving number due to updates and new Pokémon introductions. While there isn't a single definitive "highest CP" applicable across all Pokémon and game versions, understanding the factors influencing CP helps trainers maximize their Pokémon's potential.
What Determines a Pokémon's CP?
A Pokémon's CP isn't solely based on its species. Several factors contribute to its final CP value:
- Species: Certain Pokémon inherently have higher CP potential than others. Legendary and Mythical Pokémon, for example, generally have much higher CP ceilings than common ones.
- Individual Values (IVs): IVs are hidden stats representing a Pokémon's base stats in Attack, Defense, and Stamina. Higher IVs directly translate to a higher CP potential. These values are not directly visible but can be estimated using various third-party apps and tools.
- Level: As a Pokémon gains levels through powering up, its CP increases. The maximum level a Pokémon can reach impacts its ultimate CP.
- CP Multiplier: This hidden value changes based on a Pokémon's level and influences how its IVs translate into CP.
How to Maximize Your Pokémon's CP?
The quest for the highest CP involves optimizing these elements:
- Catch High-IV Pokémon: Focus on catching Pokémon with high IVs. While you can't directly see these values initially, using appraisal from Team Leaders (Team Mystic's Blanche, Team Valor's Candela, and Team Instinct's Spark) provides hints. More detailed IV analysis is available through various community-created tools and websites.
- Power Up Strategically: Powering up your Pokémon increases its level and CP. However, stardust and candy are limited resources, so prioritize your strongest and highest-IV Pokémon.
- Evolution: Evolving a Pokémon increases its CP significantly. Consider evolving only Pokémon with good IVs to maximize your investment.
- Utilize Charged and Fast Attacks: A Pokémon's moveset also affects its performance in battle. Choosing the right moves with high damage output and effective type matchups can indirectly boost its apparent effectiveness, even if the CP remains the same.
What are the Highest CP Pokémon Currently?
The exact highest CP Pokémon changes as Niantic introduces new Pokémon and adjusts the game mechanics. However, generally speaking, Legendary and Mythical Pokémon consistently hold the top spots. These include Pokémon like Mewtwo, Giratina, and other powerful creatures that have appeared in raids and special events. Checking online resources focused on Pokémon GO databases can give you a current ranking, but remember that these rankings are subject to change.
How do I find out my Pokémon’s IVs?
Many third-party apps and websites dedicated to Pokémon GO analysis provide IV calculators. These tools use a Pokémon's CP, HP, and appraisal information to estimate its IVs. Remember to always download such apps from reputable sources to ensure security.
Can I increase my Pokémon's CP indefinitely?
No, there is a CP cap based on a Pokémon's level and the game's mechanics. While powering up increases CP, it eventually reaches a limit. Also note that CP is not the only measure of a Pokémon's strength; its moveset, type advantages, and individual stats are also crucial factors in battle.
Ultimately, the highest CP in Pokémon GO isn't a fixed number. It's a dynamic target influenced by many factors, constantly shifting with game updates and player dedication to finding and powering up the strongest Pokémon.
