Pokemon Go Tanking: A Strategic Guide to Mastering the Game
In the world of Pokemon Go, players are constantly looking for ways to gain an edge over their competitors. One such strategy that has gained popularity among players is “tanking”. But what exactly does tanking mean in the context of Pokemon Go, and how can it be used to your advantage? This article delves into the concept of tanking, its benefits, and how to implement it effectively in your gameplay.
Understanding Tanking in Pokemon Go
Tanking in Pokemon Go refers to the act of intentionally lowering your player’s level or ranking to gain a strategic advantage. This is often done to make battles easier, allowing players to defeat opponents more efficiently or to qualify for certain rewards and events. Unlike traditional tanking in other games, where players might focus on absorbing damage, Pokemon Go tanking is more about manipulating your in-game status to achieve long-term benefits.
Why Tanking is Beneficial
Easier Battles: By lowering your level, you can face weaker opponents, making it easier to win battles and earn rewards. This is particularly useful for players who are looking to accumulate resources or for those who want to avoid tough competitions.
Access to Exclusive Events: Some events in Pokemon Go are only available to players within specific level ranges. Tanking allows you to participate in these events, which often offer rare Pokemon or exclusive items.
Resource Efficiency: Tanking can help you conserve resources such as potions, revives, and berries, as you won’t need to use them as frequently in easier battles.
How to Tank Effectively
Avoid Leveling Up: The most straightforward way to tank is to avoid activities that increase your level, such as completing tasks or defeating wild Pokemon. This will keep your level low and prevent you from moving up to higher tiers where competition is tougher.
Lose Battles Intentionally: If you’re in a higher tier and want to drop down, you can intentionally lose battles. This will lower your rank and allow you to face weaker opponents.
Use Lower-Level Pokemon: When participating in battles, use Pokemon with lower CP (Combat Power) to increase your chances of losing. This will help you drop ranks faster.
Join Lower-Tier Leagues: If you’re part of a higher-tier league, consider joining a lower-tier one. This will match you against weaker opponents, making it easier to win battles and accumulate resources.
Risks and Challenges
While tanking can be beneficial, it’s important to be aware of the risks involved:
Temporary Setbacks: Tanking requires you to lower your level or rank, which might set you back in the short term. You’ll need to rebuild your status once you’ve achieved your goals.
Limited Accessibility: Some features and events in Pokemon Go are only available to higher-level players. By tanking, you might miss out on these opportunities.
Potential Bans: While tanking is not against the rules, intentionally losing battles or manipulating your rank could be seen as unfair play. Be cautious not to overdo it, as this might attract unwanted attention from the game’s moderators.
Case Study: Successful Tanking in Pokemon Go
One player, known for their strategic approach, decided to tank during a major event in Pokemon Go. By intentionally losing battles and avoiding level-ups, they managed to drop down to a lower tier. This allowed them to participate in an exclusive event where they earned a rare Pokemon and valuable resources. After the event, they quickly rebuilt their rank and continued their progress without any issues.
Tips from Seasoned Players
Seasoned players who have successfully implemented tanking strategies offer the following tips:
Plan Ahead: Understand why you’re tanking and what you hope to achieve. This will help you stay focused and avoid unnecessary setbacks.
Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your level and rank to ensure you don’t drop too low. It’s important to find a balance between tanking and maintaining a competitive edge.
Stay Patient: Tanking requires time and effort. Don’t rush the process, as this could lead to mistakes and potential bans.
Conclusion
Pokemon Go tanking is a powerful strategy that can give you a significant edge in the game. By understanding how to lower your level and rank effectively, you can access exclusive events, win easier battles, and conserve resources. However, it’s crucial to approach tanking with caution and plan carefully to avoid potential risks. With the right strategy and a bit of patience, you can master the art of tanking and take your Pokemon Go gameplay to the next level.