Catching Pixelmon is a fundamental aspect of the game, and understanding the mechanics behind catch rates can significantly improve your success. The catch rate formula in Pixelmon is influenced by several factors, each playing a crucial role in determining how likely a Pixelmon is to be caught by a Poké Ball.
Key Factors Influencing Catch Rate:
Base Catch Rate: Each Pixelmon species has a unique base catch rate, inherent to its species. This is the starting point for all calculations. Some Pixelmon are naturally harder to catch than others.
Your Pixelmon's Level vs. Target Pixelmon's Level: The level of your Pixelmon relative to the wild Pixelmon can have an impact. Generally, if your Pixelmon is significantly higher level, it might slightly decrease your catch rate, while a similar or lower level might offer a slight boost.
Current HP vs. Max HP: A Pixelmon with lower HP is easier to catch. The lower the current HP, the higher the modifier for your catch chance. This is why weakening a wild Pixelmon is a common strategy.
Status Effects: Inflicting status conditions like Paralysis, Sleep, Freeze, Poison, or Burn on the wild Pixelmon dramatically increases your catch rate. Sleep and Freeze offer the highest bonus.
Ball Type: Different Poké Balls offer varying multipliers. Standard Poké Balls have a base multiplier, while Great Balls and Ultra Balls offer increased chances. Special balls like Net Balls, Dive Balls, Nest Balls, Repeat Balls, Timer Balls, and Luxury Balls have conditional bonuses based on Pixelmon type, location, or previous encounters, offering significantly higher multipliers in specific situations.
How the Calculator Works:
This calculator takes your input for each of these factors and applies the underlying Pixelmon catch rate formula. It calculates a raw catch value and then converts it into a percentage chance out of a maximum possible value (typically 255, representing a guaranteed catch). By adjusting the inputs, you can get an estimated probability of successfully catching a specific Pixelmon under various conditions.
Strategies for Higher Catch Rates:
Weaken the Target: Use your Pixelmon's moves to lower the wild Pixelmon's HP, ideally to the red zone, without knocking it out.
Inflict Status Conditions: Use moves that can cause Sleep, Freeze, or Paralysis. These are the most effective status effects for increasing catch rates.
Choose the Right Ball: Utilize special balls when their conditions are met. For example, use a Net Ball on Water or Bug-type Pixelmon, a Repeat Ball if you've already caught that species, or a Timer Ball if the battle is prolonged.
Level Advantage: While not as impactful as HP or status, having a higher-level Pixelmon can sometimes offer a slight edge.
Use this calculator as a tool to strategize your Pixelmon catching adventures!