Highlights
Pokemon GO currently only has a limited selection of Poke Balls, but there are other types in the mainline games that could benefit the gameplay.
Nest Balls are more effective at capturing lower-level Pokemon and are perfect for obtaining Candy from a specific species.
The inclusion of different types of Poke Balls such as the Heavy Ball or Timer Ball in Pokemon GO might enhance the chances of capturing rare or difficult-to-catch Pokemon.
There are various types of Poke Balls used for catching wild Pokemon, beyond the traditional red and white version. When trying to catch a rare Pokemon, trainers generally opt for Great Balls or Ultra Balls, while a Master Ball guarantees a successful catch. In Pokemon GO, trainers are provided with the standard Poke Balls, Great Balls, Ultra Balls, and Premier Balls. However, the mainline Pokemon games offer more than just these four types.
In games like Scarlet/Violet, players utilize different kinds of Poke Balls depending on the situation. For instance, one type is more effective when attempting to catch a Pokemon at night, while another is ideal for use at the beginning of a battle. At present, Pokemon GO does not feature these additional Poke Ball types, and it remains uncertain if future updates will introduce them. Nonetheless, their inclusion could enhance the gameplay.
7 Nest Ball
The distinction between Level Balls and Nest Balls revolves around catch rates. A Level Ball's catch rate is influenced by the level of the trainer's Pokemon in relation to the wild Pokemon's level, while a Nest Ball's catch rate is solely based on the level of the wild Pokemon. To illustrate, a Pokemon below level 20 has a higher chance of being caught compared to a Pokemon approximately level 60.
Nest Balls can be recognized by their green and yellow appearance, which contrasts with the yellow, gray, and red color scheme of a Level Ball. Although Pokemon Levels are not a factor in Pokemon GO, the probability of capturing a Pokemon is determined by its Combat Power (CP). The lower the CP, the easier it is to capture the Pokemon. Having a Nest Ball in the game would be advantageous when attempting to capture weaker Pokemon or when players want to gather Candy from a specific species.
6 Heavy Ball
The Heavy Ball in the Johto Region was created by Kurt using Black Apricorns. It is designed specifically for catching heavy Pokemon and has a lower catch rate when used on lighter ones. In Pokemon GO, heavy Pokemon like Snorlax or Onix can be difficult to catch with regular Poke Balls or Ultra Balls. Trainers often resort to using a Razz Berry to increase the chances of success. If the Heavy Ball were available in Pokemon GO, it would greatly aid in capturing rare Pokemon like Snorlax. However, it is possible that the Heavy Ball has not been introduced due to the rarity of heavier Pokemon in the wild.
5 Timer Ball
Trainers should come prepared with Ultra Balls and Timer Balls before confronting Legendary or Mythical Pokemon. The purpose of the Ultra Ball is evident, while the Timer Ball is recommended due to its advantageous effect. The likelihood of a Timer Ball successfully capturing a Pokemon increases as the battle progresses. It is advisable to reserve the use of Timer Balls for later in the battle, as they are as efficient as regular Poke Balls when used at the beginning. However, the capture rate of a Timer Ball reaches its maximum after 10 turns.
Certain Pokemon in Pokemon GO can be extremely challenging to capture, even with the use of Ultra Balls. Employing a Timer Ball that accumulates effectiveness based on the number of times the Pokemon broke free may enhance catching success. Sadly, if players repeatedly fail to capture the Pokemon, it will eventually flee, denying them the opportunity to employ a Timer Ball.
4 Net Ball
Net Balls, distinguished by their net-like design, are blue Poke Balls. They possess the same catch rate as standard Poke Balls, except when used to capture Bug-type or Water-type Pokemon. When venturing for fishing or encountering Pokemon in water, it is highly recommended to keep Net Balls in storage, alongside Dive Balls.
The appearance of Pokemon on the map is influenced by in-game events and weather conditions. Specifically, Water-type Pokemon emerge more frequently on rainy days, while Bug-type Pokemon are more prevalent during sunny days. However, even disregarding these weather-related boosts, both of these Pokemon types remain relatively common. This makes the Net Ball an ideal choice for Pokemon GO, particularly when players seek to evolve or collect Candy through capturing Pokemon.
3 Dusk Ball
The Dusk Ball is a black ball with green spots that is ideal for catching Pokemon at night or in caves. If the Dusk Ball is used in any other setting, it becomes as effective as a regular Poke Ball. Therefore, it is recommended to save Dusk Balls for nocturnal Pokemon.
The time of day and real-life weather affect the gameplay in Pokemon GO. Some Pokemon are only capable of evolving during specific times of the day. Many Pokemon GO players continue to catch Pokemon even after sunset. It would be convenient for these players to have access to Dusk Balls. Unlike in the mainline Pokemon games, rookie trainers find Dusk Balls to be quite expensive. If Dusk Balls were ever introduced in Pokemon GO, obtaining them would likely require some effort.
2 Quick Ball
The Quick Ball is highly favored for swiftly capturing Pokemon. At the beginning of a battle, it boasts a catch rate that is four times higher than a regular Poke Ball. However, after the second turn, its catch rate diminishes to that of a standard Poke Ball. The Quick Ball is a high-risk, high-reward option as its effectiveness is nullified if the Pokemon breaks free. Nevertheless, it excels at efficiently completing a Pokedex by effortlessly capturing previously unregistered Pokemon.
If Quick Balls were to be introduced in Pokemon GO, they would likely face similar challenges as the Dusk Ball: being costly in the mainline games, they would be relatively rare, possibly scarcer than even an Ultra Ball. Despite their ability to swiftly capture Pokemon, their exceptional catch rate may hinder their inclusion. Moreover, players must consider that a few Pokemon in Pokemon GO are prone to fleeing as frequently as those found in the Safari Zone.
1 Repeat Ball
The Repeat Ball, with its red and yellow design, is just as expensive as the Dusk Ball and Quick Ball. While not readily available for new trainers, those in the later stages of their gameplay may find it worth the investment. This unique ball has a higher success rate in capturing Pokémon that have already been caught. It is often used by trainers seeking Pokémon with specific abilities or those wanting multiple Pokémon of the same species.
In the context of Pokémon GO, where catching Pokémon is essential for collecting Candy and gaining experience, the Repeat Ball would be a perfect fit. Some Pokémon require 100 Candy to evolve, which can be a time-consuming task, especially if the desired Pokémon has a low spawn rate. Even when it does appear, there is no guarantee of successfully capturing it. By utilizing Repeat Balls, the process of Candy farming would become much easier for trainers on the hunt for a particular Pokémon. However, due to its usefulness, it is unlikely that the Repeat Ball would be readily available in Pokémon GO if ever introduced.