how to buy pokemon in pokemon go

2 min read 07-02-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to acquire Pokémon in Pokémon GO! This guide covers catching wild Pokémon, hatching eggs, evolving, trading, and special research. Master Pokémon GO's acquisition methods to complete your Pokédex! (158 characters)

Catching Wild Pokémon: The Foundation of Your Collection

The most common way to acquire Pokémon in Pokémon GO is by catching them in the wild. These Pokémon appear on your map as you move around in the real world.

Spotting Pokémon: Look for the rustling leaves and Pokémon silhouettes on your in-game map. Tap on the Pokémon to start a catch encounter.
Throwing Poké Balls: Aim carefully and swipe the Poké Ball to throw it at the Pokémon. The closer to the center of the circle, the better your chance of catching it.
Using Berries: Razz Berries increase your chances of catching a Pokémon, especially tougher ones.
Item Upgrades: Consider using better Poké Balls, like Great Balls or Ultra Balls, for challenging catches.

Hatching Pokémon from Eggs: A Surprise Element

Pokémon eggs offer a chance to hatch Pokémon you might not otherwise encounter. Eggs are obtained from PokéStops and Gifts.

Incubators: You need an incubator to hatch eggs. You start with one unlimited-use incubator. Additional incubators can be purchased in the in-game shop.
Incubation Time: The time it takes to hatch an egg varies depending on the egg type (2km, 5km, 7km, 10km, 12km).
Walking: Incubators work by tracking your movement in the real world. The more you walk, the faster your eggs hatch.

Evolving Pokémon: Transforming Your Team

Evolving Pokémon increases their Combat Power (CP) and often changes their appearance.

Candy and Stardust: You need Candy specific to each Pokémon species and Stardust to evolve them. Catch multiple Pokémon of the same species to accumulate Candy.
Evolution Requirements: Each Pokémon has specific Candy requirements for evolution. Check your Pokémon's profile for details.

Trading Pokémon: Swapping with Friends

Trading Pokémon with friends allows you to obtain Pokémon you might not have found yourself.

Friendship Levels: You need to be at least Good Friends with another player to trade.
Trading Costs: Trading typically requires Stardust and Candy. The cost varies depending on the Pokémon being traded.
Lucky Pokémon: Rarely, you can get a “Lucky Pokémon” through trading. These Pokémon require less Stardust to power up.

Special Research and Events: Unique Acquisition Opportunities

Niantic, the developer of Pokémon GO, periodically releases Special Research tasks. Completing these tasks can reward you with rare and powerful Pokémon. Keep an eye out for in-game events, which frequently offer bonus Pokémon encounters.

Time-Limited Events: Special events offer increased spawns of specific Pokémon or unique bonuses.

Purchasing Items in the In-Game Shop (But Not Pokémon Directly)

While you can't directly buy specific Pokémon with real money, you can purchase items in the in-game shop that indirectly help you acquire more Pokémon.

Poké Balls: Replenish your supply of Poké Balls to catch more Pokémon.
Incubators: Hatch more eggs to get more Pokémon.
Lure Modules: Attract Pokémon to PokéStops, increasing your chances of encountering rare Pokémon.

Conclusion: Build Your Dream Pokémon Team

There are many ways to acquire Pokémon in Pokémon GO, from catching wild Pokémon to hatching eggs and trading. Remember to explore your surroundings, participate in events, and be patient to build your ultimate Pokémon collection. Happy catching!