There are some important tips and techniques to master if trainers want to improve their performance in Pokemon GO PvP battles. Unlike PvE, which includes Raids and Gym Attacks, the combat system of PvP, popularly known as the GO Battle League, is vastly different. Players can create a team to challenge trainers from all around the world online, and upon beating them, they are rewarded with various vital items and Pokemon encounters.
The PvP gameplay mode comprises Great League, Ultra League, and Master League. Except for the latter, the two formers have a CP limitation, which restricts entities from entering competition.
Note: This list is subjective and based on the author's opinion
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Five essential tips to improve Pokemon GO PvP
1) Choose the comfortable league
First and foremost, the important thing to know before jumping into the fire of Pokemon GO PvP is to select a league you feel most comfortable with. If you're new to this format, we suggest you play the Great League first. Afterward, when you know the ins and outs, try the Ultra League and the Master League for a greater experience.
The combat system of all PvP modes is the same, where the only differentiating factor is their CP cap. In addition, Niantic regularly rolls out updates for the GO Battle League, bringing different remixes like the Great League remix of the Shared Skies season.
2) Build at least two to three best teams
For each of the GO Battle League modes, Pokemon GO PvP trainers should have at least two to three best units. For this, they should pick the top meta Pokemon (If possible). You must have more than one set of Pokemon for the Great League, Ultra League, and Master League. Importantly, a team that is excellent in one format is not the same in another.
That said, trainers will want to practice with the chosen team countless times in Trainer Battles or the main PvP play. Once a fighting sense is developed, they can showcase their battle power (knowledge) on their field.
3) Right movesets
Those with the right movesets for the Pokemon GO PvP fights are likely to inflict significant damage on their opponents. This is a critical piece of advice, and if not followed, even the strongest Legendary Pokemon can lose to a Pokemon with a suitable set of moves (because of its niche). Take Rayquaza, for example, as Glaceon can easily defeat the former despite being an average Ice-type Pocket Monster.
Pokemon with the proper movesets sport a great damage per second data. Further, they also boast a significant total damage output. If your team is equipped with this, you can face challenges in PvP without the fear of failing.
4) Charged Attack timing
Winning and losing is a part of the Pokemon GO PvP Battle League game, so trainers are not guaranteed to conquer every match they commence. However, there are critical things to keep in mind, one of which is learning to time the Charged Attacks. In PvP game mode, trainers have the option to teach their Pokemon a second Charged Attack (CA).
You may have noticed that some CA are way faster, allowing trainers to land hits in a few seconds. On the contrary, others are slow, but they bring devastation with them. Consequently, learning how to time your Charged Attacks in the game is crucial.
5) Acknowledge the importance of Shield
Staters who may not know the usage of Shied in Pokemon GO PvP are bound to use this item carelessly. In each GO Battle League match, trainers are given two Shields, which are used for protection against Charged Attack threats. Once you run out of these protections, you will have to rely on your Pokemon's Hit Point to withstand CA.
Therefore, you must select a league that is good for your skill level, then build a team with the right movesets, teach the team the secondary attack and timing, and learn how and when to use Shields, which can be mastered through practice sessions.
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