Pokémon GO, the augmented reality sensation that swept the globe, continues to evolve, keeping trainers on their toes. One of the game’s core mechanics is attracting Pokémon, and Incense is a key item in achieving this goal. But does it really work as advertised? Let’s delve into the specifics, dissect the mechanics, and explore the nuances of using Incense to maximize your Pokémon GO experience.
Understanding Incense Mechanics In Pokémon GO
Incense, described in the game as an item that attracts wild Pokémon to your location, is a staple for trainers of all levels. It’s readily available in the in-game shop, often awarded through Special Research tasks, and sometimes included in event bundles. But how does it actually work?
The Core Functionality Of Incense
The primary function of Incense is to increase the spawn rate of wild Pokémon around your character. When activated, it emits a pinkish-purple smoke that indicates its effect is active. For the duration of the Incense (typically 30 minutes, though events can extend this), Pokémon will appear more frequently than they normally would. This increased spawn rate is designed to help you encounter a wider variety of Pokémon and potentially find rarer specimens.
The Impact Of Movement On Incense Effectiveness
Here’s a crucial factor many trainers overlook: movement. While Incense does attract Pokémon even when you’re stationary, its effectiveness is significantly amplified when you’re walking or moving. The game tracks your distance traveled while the Incense is active, and the further you move, the more Pokémon will spawn.
The exact mechanics of movement-based spawns have been subject to much research and observation by the Pokémon GO community. The general consensus is that moving at a moderate pace, somewhere between a brisk walk and a light jog, optimizes the number of Pokémon attracted. Driving in a car will likely be too fast and won’t trigger the spawn increase.
Factors That Influence Incense Spawns
Several factors can influence the Pokémon that appear while Incense is active. The time of day, weather conditions, and surrounding environment all play a role. For example, using Incense near a body of water might attract more Water-type Pokémon, while using it during the night could lead to more encounters with nocturnal species. Additionally, events often feature increased spawns of specific Pokémon, and Incense will draw those event-related Pokémon at an even higher rate.
Debunking Common Incense Myths
Over time, many myths and misconceptions about Incense have circulated among Pokémon GO players. Let’s address some of the most prevalent ones.
Myth: Incense Only Attracts Common Pokémon
This is a common complaint, but it’s not entirely true. While it’s true that you’ll encounter a fair share of common Pokémon while using Incense, it does increase your chances of finding rarer species as well. The probability of encountering a rare Pokémon is always present, and Incense simply amplifies the number of spawn attempts, thereby increasing your odds.
Myth: Incense Is Useless In Rural Areas
While it’s undeniable that Incense is more effective in areas with existing spawn points, it’s not useless in rural areas. In areas where Pokémon are scarce, Incense becomes even more valuable as it creates spawn points where there were none before. It essentially provides a temporary boost to Pokémon density in your immediate vicinity.
Myth: Incense Guarantees Specific Pokémon
Incense doesn’t guarantee the appearance of any particular Pokémon, unless explicitly stated during a specific event. It simply increases the overall spawn rate. The types of Pokémon that appear are still subject to the same environmental and event-related factors that govern normal spawns.
Maximizing Incense Effectiveness: Tips And Strategies
To get the most out of your Incense, consider these strategies:
Optimal Timing For Incense Use
Timing is everything. Consider using Incense during events that feature increased spawn rates of specific Pokémon. This dramatically boosts your chances of finding those desirable creatures. Similarly, using Incense during Community Days can significantly increase your haul of the featured Pokémon.
Location Awareness: Biomes And Spawn Points
Pay attention to your surroundings. Different environments (biomes) are known to attract different types of Pokémon. Using Incense in a biome that favors the Pokémon you’re seeking can be highly effective. Look for parks, forests, waterfront areas, and other distinct environments.
Combining Incense With Other Items
Incense can be effectively combined with other items to further enhance your Pokémon GO experience. For example, using a Lucky Egg while Incense is active will double the XP you earn from catching Pokémon. Similarly, using a Star Piece will increase the amount of Stardust you receive.
Staying Mobile: The Importance Of Walking
As mentioned earlier, movement is key. Plan your Incense use around a walk or hike. Choose a route that covers a variety of environments and allows you to maintain a consistent pace. This will maximize the number of Pokémon that spawn around you. A consistent pace is important, as moving too fast will not trigger the spawn.
Be Prepared: Balls And Berries
Before activating an Incense, make sure you have a sufficient supply of Poké Balls, Great Balls, and Ultra Balls. You’ll also want to have a stock of Razz Berries, Nanab Berries, and Pinap Berries to make catching Pokémon easier and increase your candy yield. Running out of balls or berries mid-Incense can be incredibly frustrating.
The Evolution Of Incense In Pokémon GO
Incense has undergone several changes since Pokémon GO’s launch. Its duration, spawn rates, and even the types of Pokémon it attracts have been adjusted over time through various game updates. These changes often coincide with events or aim to rebalance gameplay.
Impact Of COVID-19 On Incense Mechanics
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Pokémon GO’s gameplay. Niantic made several adjustments to encourage indoor play, including increasing the effectiveness of Incense while stationary. While the game has since reverted some of these changes, Incense remains a valuable tool for attracting Pokémon, even when you’re not actively moving.
Future Possibilities For Incense
It’s likely that Incense will continue to evolve in Pokémon GO. Niantic may introduce new types of Incense that attract specific types of Pokémon or offer other unique benefits. They could also further refine the mechanics of movement-based spawns or introduce new ways to interact with Incense. The possibilities are endless, and it’s exciting to imagine how this core item will continue to shape the Pokémon GO experience.
Conclusion: Is Incense Worth It?
So, does Incense really attract Pokémon? The answer is a resounding yes. While it’s not a magic bullet that guarantees rare spawns, it significantly increases the rate at which Pokémon appear around you. By understanding the mechanics of Incense, debunking common myths, and implementing effective strategies, you can maximize its potential and enhance your Pokémon GO adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned trainer or just starting out, Incense is a valuable tool that can help you catch ’em all. Remember to be aware of your surroundings and enjoy the journey!
Does Incense Guarantee Rare Pokémon Spawns In Pokémon GO?
Incense does not guarantee rare Pokémon spawns, but it increases the overall spawn rate of Pokémon around you. While using incense, you’ll encounter more Pokémon than you would normally find in the same location without it. This increased spawn rate indirectly raises your chances of encountering a rare Pokémon, but the rarity of the spawns themselves isn’t directly influenced by the incense.
Think of incense as a fishing lure; it attracts more fish to your area, but it doesn’t specifically target rare or legendary fish. The type of Pokémon that spawn while using incense is still governed by the same factors as regular spawns, such as biome, time of day, and weather conditions. Therefore, while you might get lucky and find a rare Pokémon with incense, it’s more about increasing the quantity of Pokémon you encounter, not the quality.
How Does Incense Work When Stationary Versus While Moving?
When you are stationary, Incense typically spawns one Pokémon every five minutes. This is a baseline spawn rate designed to provide consistent encounters even if you’re not actively exploring. The primary function here is to ensure users have something to interact with while remaining in one spot.
However, when you are moving, the effectiveness of Incense is significantly increased. While moving, Incense spawns Pokémon more frequently, with the specific rate depending on your speed. Generally, the faster you move, the more Pokémon will spawn, making it highly beneficial for players who are actively walking, running, or traveling by car (as a passenger). This encourages exploration and movement within the game.
What Factors Influence The Types Of Pokémon Attracted By Incense?
The types of Pokémon attracted by Incense are primarily influenced by the surrounding biome and the current weather conditions in the game. Just like regular wild spawns, Incense doesn’t override these environmental factors. You’re more likely to encounter water-type Pokémon near bodies of water, and weather-boosted Pokémon are more likely to appear during their respective weather conditions.
Time of day also plays a role, with certain Pokémon species being more common during the day and others at night. Special in-game events can further alter the spawn pool, introducing event-specific Pokémon that are more likely to be attracted by Incense during the event’s duration. It’s crucial to consider these external factors to maximize the effectiveness of Incense and target specific Pokémon types.
How Long Does Incense Last, And Can Its Duration Be Extended?
Standard Incense in Pokémon GO lasts for 30 minutes under normal circumstances. During this time, it will continuously attract Pokémon to your location, providing an increased spawn rate. This duration provides a substantial window to explore your surroundings and encounter numerous Pokémon.
However, the duration of Incense can be extended during certain in-game events or through the use of special items and bonuses. For example, some events may offer extended Incense duration as a featured bonus, lasting up to an hour or even longer. Additionally, some Research tasks or Special Research may reward players with Incense that has a longer duration than the standard 30 minutes.
Is Incense More Effective In Rural Areas Compared To Urban Areas?
Incense is generally considered more effective in rural areas compared to urban areas. This is because rural areas typically have fewer natural spawn points, meaning that Incense’s ability to generate Pokémon spawns has a more noticeable impact. In urban areas, where Pokémon spawns are already frequent, the added benefit of Incense might be less pronounced.
The difference stems from the existing density of Pokémon spawns. In cities, the baseline spawn rate is already high due to the increased number of PokéStops and Gyms, making it harder to discern the influence of Incense. Rural players, on the other hand, see a significant increase in Pokémon appearances when using Incense, making it a valuable tool for filling their Pokédex and collecting resources.
Does Incense Attract Team GO Rocket Grunts Or Leaders?
No, Incense does not attract Team GO Rocket Grunts or Leaders to your location in Pokémon GO. Team GO Rocket encounters are triggered by specific events, such as finding invaded PokéStops, or through Rocket Radar which pinpoints Team GO Rocket Leaders.
Incense specifically increases the spawn rate of wild Pokémon. While you might encounter a greater number of Pokémon while moving around near PokéStops where Grunts might be present, the appearance of Grunts or Leaders is entirely independent of Incense usage. Focusing on locating invaded PokéStops or using a Rocket Radar is necessary for those encounters.
Does The Type Of Incense Used Affect The Type Of Pokémon Attracted?
Yes, the type of Incense used can definitely affect the type of Pokémon attracted in Pokémon GO. Different types of Incense are designed to attract specific categories of Pokémon. For example, Daily Adventure Incense attracts Pokémon that are not typically found in your area, including potentially rare and powerful Pokémon.
Special Incense types, often released during events, are tailored to attract specific types of Pokémon related to the event. These specialized Incenses can significantly increase your chances of finding event-exclusive Pokémon or specific types that are relevant to the ongoing theme. Understanding the properties of each Incense type and choosing the appropriate one can greatly enhance your hunting experience.