Master Ball: The Ultimate Tool for Catching Legendary Pokémon
The Master Ball is one of the most coveted items in the Pokémon series. Known for its unmatched ability to capture any Pokémon without fail, it holds a special place in every trainer’s inventory. While the Master Ball guarantees a catch, the question remains: which Pokémon should you use it on? With limited availability in most games, choosing the best Pokémon to use the Master Ball on can be a game-changing decision. In this article, we will explore the power of the Master Ball and help you make the most informed choice when it comes to its use.
What Makes the Master Ball Special?
Before diving into the best Pokémon to use the Master Ball on, it’s important to understand why it is so special. The Master Ball is an item that ensures a 100% catch rate, regardless of the Pokémon’s level, health, or status condition. Whether the Pokémon is at full health or paralyzed, this ball will capture it without fail. Given its rarity, it’s crucial to save the Master Ball for moments when you encounter hard-to-catch Pokémon that are crucial to your collection.
Choosing the Best Pokémon to Use the Master Ball On
Using the Master Ball wisely is key to maximizing its value. Since it is a one-time-use item in most games, it’s essential to save it for Pokémon that are extremely rare, difficult to catch, or provide significant advantages in your journey. Below are the top Pokémon you should consider using the Master Ball on.
1. Legendary Pokémon
Legendary Pokémon are some of the most powerful and rare creatures in the Pokémon world. They are typically encountered only once per game, making them prime candidates for the Master Ball. These Pokémon often have low catch rates, which means using regular Poké Balls or even Ultra Balls can result in failure. For example, if you encounter Mewtwo in Pokémon Red/Blue or one of the legendary birds in later generations, the Master Ball is your best option to ensure that they are caught.
- Mewtwo: One of the most iconic Pokémon, Mewtwo is extremely powerful, and catching it with anything less than a Master Ball is often frustrating.
- Rayquaza: In Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald, Rayquaza is another tough Legendary with low catch rates.
- Groudon and Kyogre: The Legendary titans of Hoenn are formidable and should not be left to chance when it comes to capturing them.
2. Mythical Pokémon
Mythical Pokémon, often available through special events or post-game activities, are another excellent choice for the Master Ball. These Pokémon are even rarer than Legendary ones and are typically locked behind special conditions that make them difficult to access. The Master Ball guarantees that you don’t miss the opportunity to catch them when they appear.
- Mew: Available via special events in most games, Mew is an elusive Mythical Pokémon with an important role in the series.
- Celebi: Often obtainable only through events, Celebi is one of the most elusive and powerful Mythical Pokémon.
- Jirachi: A Pokémon of rare availability, Jirachi’s catch rate makes it an excellent candidate for the Master Ball.
3. Shiny Pokémon
If you’re a fan of completing your Pokédex with rare variants, you may encounter shiny Pokémon during your journey. Shiny Pokémon have an incredibly low spawn rate (typically 1 in 4,096 in modern games), making them exceedingly rare. When you finally encounter one, you’ll want to ensure that you catch it, especially if it’s a particularly strong Pokémon. Using the Master Ball will eliminate any risk of missing out on a shiny Pokémon.
4. Ultra Beast Pokémon
Ultra Beasts are alien-like Pokémon introduced in Pokémon Sun and Moon. These powerful creatures typically have high base stats, making them valuable additions to your team. However, they can be difficult to catch, with some Ultra Beasts having a very low catch rate. If you don’t want to waste time throwing countless Ultra Balls, the Master Ball is a solid choice to ensure their capture.
5. Legendary Pokémon with Unique Abilities or Forms
Some Legendary Pokémon offer unique forms or abilities that set them apart from the rest. For example, the different forms of the legendary birds (Articuno, Zapdos, Moltres) in the Pokémon Sword and Shield series are available through special in-game events. These Pokémon not only bring high stats but also come with unique traits that make them desirable. Don’t risk losing one to a failed catch—use the Master Ball to secure these treasures.
When Should You Not Use the Master Ball?
While the Master Ball is an invaluable tool, it’s important to recognize when it might not be necessary. Using the Master Ball on just any rare Pokémon can result in wasted opportunities later in the game. Consider the following scenarios where you may want to save your Master Ball for something else:
- Regular Legendary Encounters: In some Pokémon games, you can find multiple Legendary Pokémon. If the Pokémon is not essential or if you have other methods of weakening it (e.g., status moves or lower-level Poké Balls), consider using a regular Poké Ball instead.
- Pokémon Available in Multiple Versions: If the Pokémon you’re considering using the Master Ball on is available in different game versions or in post-game areas, you might want to save the Master Ball for more unique encounters.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Master Ball
Once you’ve decided which Pokémon is worthy of the Master Ball, follow these simple steps to use it:
- Save Your Game: Before engaging in battle, make sure to save your game. This way, if you accidentally knock out the Pokémon or make an error, you can restart the encounter.
- Prepare Your Party: Ensure that your team is in good health. Consider using Pokémon with status moves like Sleep or Paralysis to improve the chances of a successful capture.
- Initiate Battle: Begin the battle with the target Pokémon. Lower its HP if possible without knocking it out.
- Use the Master Ball: Once the Pokémon’s health is lowered, open your bag and select the Master Ball. Use it in the battle to catch the Pokémon instantly.
Troubleshooting Tips for Using the Master Ball
While the Master Ball guarantees success, there are some common issues trainers face when using it:
- Accidentally Using the Master Ball: If you accidentally use the Master Ball on the wrong Pokémon, there’s no way to retrieve it. Always double-check your selections before using it.
- Not Saving Before the Battle: It’s easy to forget to save before encountering a Legendary Pokémon. Always save your progress before challenging rare or powerful Pokémon.
- Too Early Use: Don’t waste the Master Ball on low-level or easy-to-catch Pokémon. Save it for the toughest encounters for maximum benefit.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of the Master Ball
In the Pokémon world, the Master Ball is an incredibly valuable item that should be used strategically. Whether you’re aiming to catch a Legendary Pokémon, a Mythical creature, or a rare shiny Pokémon, using the Master Ball wisely ensures that you don’t miss out on these important creatures. Always consider your options and save your Master Ball for the rarest of encounters.
By following this guide, you will be able to make the most of this powerful item and build a stronger, more complete team. The Master Ball is a game-changer, but only if you wield it wisely!
This article is in the category Guides & Tutorials and created by GameMasterHub Team