Apricorns, those peculiar fruits hanging from trees in the Johto region and beyond, are more than just colorful decorations. They are the key ingredient in crafting specialized Poké Balls, offering trainers a strategic advantage in capturing Pokémon. But with seven different Apricorn colors to choose from, knowing which one yields which Poké Ball can be confusing. This guide will demystify the process, providing a detailed look at each Apricorn and the unique Poké Ball it creates.
The Apricorns of Johto: A Colorful Palette
The journey to understanding Apricorn Poké Ball creation begins with the Apricorns themselves. These fruits are found growing on special trees throughout the Johto region, and are essential for custom Poké Ball creation. Kurt, a Poké Ball craftsman in Azalea Town, is the only person capable of turning these fruits into functional Poké Balls. Each Apricorn color corresponds to a specific type of Poké Ball, offering trainers varied options for catching different Pokémon. Let’s explore each Apricorn and its corresponding Poké Ball.
Red Apricorn: The Level Ball
The Red Apricorn is the source for the Level Ball. This Poké Ball’s effectiveness is directly tied to the level difference between the trainer’s Pokémon and the wild Pokémon. The greater the level difference, the higher the catch rate. This makes the Level Ball an excellent choice for catching Pokémon that are significantly lower level than your team.
The Level Ball excels when your lead Pokémon is a high-level powerhouse. The numerical formulas may be complex, but the general principle is straightforward: dominate lower-level encounters with the Level Ball. It removes the need for weakening lower-level Pokémon, allowing for quick and efficient captures.
Blue Apricorn: The Lure Ball
The Blue Apricorn is used to create the Lure Ball, a specialized Poké Ball designed for catching Pokémon encountered while fishing or surfing. This makes it an invaluable tool for trainers pursuing Water-type Pokémon or those found near bodies of water.
The Lure Ball’s effectiveness drastically increases when used in the correct environment. Attempting to use it on land-based Pokémon yields no special bonus. Remember that the Lure Ball’s strength lies in aquatic encounters, making it an essential item for any aspiring fisherman or surfer on their Pokémon journey.
Green Apricorn: The Friend Ball
The Green Apricorn yields the Friend Ball. This particular Poké Ball doesn’t offer a catch rate bonus, but instead focuses on improving the captured Pokémon’s friendship level. When a Pokémon is caught in a Friend Ball, its base friendship stat is set to 200.
Friendship is important for Pokémon evolutions and specific moves. The Friend Ball allows trainers to more easily raise a Pokémon’s friendship. This is particularly useful for Pokémon that evolve through friendship, like Chansey or Eevee. Though it doesn’t aid the initial capture, it benefits the captured creature in the long run.
Pink Apricorn: The Love Ball
The Pink Apricorn gives trainers the Love Ball. The Love Ball is a specialized Poké Ball that boasts a significantly increased catch rate when used against a Pokémon of the opposite gender that belongs to the same species as the trainer’s active Pokémon.
The Love Ball is one of the most situational, yet powerful, Poké Balls when used correctly. If your Pokémon is facing its opposite-gender counterpart of the same species, the Love Ball provides a significant boost to your chances of a successful capture. Its effectiveness relies heavily on knowing the gender and species of both your and your opponent’s Pokémon.
White Apricorn: The Fast Ball
The White Apricorn produces the Fast Ball, a Poké Ball specifically designed for catching Pokémon known for their exceptional speed. A Pokémon with a base Speed stat of 100 or higher is more easily caught using a Fast Ball.
The Fast Ball’s main advantage is in capturing quick-footed Pokémon like Jolteon or Crobat. However, be mindful of the Speed stat when choosing to use this ball. Using the Fast Ball on slower Pokémon offers no advantage.
Black Apricorn: The Heavy Ball
The Black Apricorn is used to make the Heavy Ball. As the name suggests, this Poké Ball is most effective when used against heavier Pokémon. The heavier the wild Pokémon, the higher the catch rate bonus provided by the Heavy Ball.
The Heavy Ball’s effectiveness varies greatly depending on the weight of the target Pokémon. Lighter Pokémon may be harder to catch using the Heavy Ball, but it can be incredibly useful when trying to catch very heavy Pokémon like Snorlax or Metagross.
Yellow Apricorn: The Moon Ball
The Yellow Apricorn is the key to crafting the Moon Ball. This unique Poké Ball is designed to make it easier to catch Pokémon that evolve using a Moon Stone. These Pokémon include species such as Nidorino, Nidorina, Clefairy, and Jigglypuff.
The Moon Ball provides a significant catch rate bonus when used against Pokémon that evolve via Moon Stone. This allows trainers to easily capture those particular Pokémon. Its use is limited to specific species, but its effectiveness on those species makes it invaluable.
Utilizing Kurt’s Craftsmanship
Kurt, residing in Azalea Town, plays a vital role in the Apricorn-to-Poké Ball transformation process. He will gladly take your collected Apricorns and, through his expert craftsmanship, turn them into their corresponding Poké Balls. However, there’s a limitation: Kurt can only craft one Poké Ball per Apricorn per day. This time constraint adds a layer of strategy to your Apricorn collection and usage, requiring careful planning.
Beyond Catch Rates: The Aesthetic Appeal
While each Apricorn-based Poké Ball offers a distinct advantage in capturing specific types of Pokémon, they also boast unique aesthetic qualities. These visual differences can appeal to trainers who value style alongside functionality. Each Poké Ball features a unique animation when a Pokémon is sent out, adding a personal touch to battles.
The choice of Poké Ball can be a statement of personal preference. Some trainers prioritize efficiency, while others lean towards a specific aesthetic. Ultimately, the best Poké Ball is the one that best suits your individual playstyle and preference.
Strategic Considerations for Apricorn Usage
The effectiveness of Apricorn Poké Balls hinges on understanding their unique properties and applying them strategically. Rushing into encounters without considering which ball to use can lead to wasted resources and failed capture attempts. The most effective trainers are those who analyze the situation and make informed decisions.
Consider these factors when choosing your Poké Ball:
- Pokémon Type: Water-type Pokémon are prime targets for the Lure Ball.
- Pokémon Level: Lower-level Pokémon can be swiftly captured with the Level Ball.
- Pokémon Speed: Fast Pokémon are better caught with the Fast Ball.
- Pokémon Weight: Heavier Pokémon are the Heavy Ball’s best friend.
- Evolution Method: Moon Stone evolvers are prime Moon Ball targets.
- Gender/Species: Same species but opposite genders? Use a Love Ball!
- Friendship: Boost a Pokémon’s friendship at capture with the Friend Ball.
By carefully considering these factors, trainers can maximize the effectiveness of their Apricorn Poké Balls and significantly increase their chances of a successful capture.
Apricorn Availability and Farming Strategies
Apricorns are not unlimited resources. They respawn daily on specific trees located throughout Johto (and subsequent regions that feature them). Knowing where to find these trees and implementing effective farming strategies is essential for trainers looking to consistently utilize Apricorn-based Poké Balls.
Exploration is key to discovering all the Apricorn tree locations. Regularly checking known locations can ensure a steady supply of Apricorns. Consider utilizing Pokémon with abilities like Pickup or those that can learn moves like Thief, although these won’t directly yield more Apricorns from the trees, they can indirectly aid in gathering useful items alongside your Apricorn collection.
Apricorns in Modern Pokémon Games
While initially prominent in Generation II, Apricorns have made appearances in later Pokémon games, although their availability and functionality might vary. In some games, Apricorns may be integrated into crafting systems, while in others, they may be obtained through other means, such as trading or special events.
Check the specific game’s documentation or online resources for the most up-to-date information on Apricorn availability and usage. Always keep an eye out for changes in game mechanics that might impact how Apricorns can be obtained and utilized. The adaptability of Apricorns throughout different Pokémon games showcases their continued value in the game’s ecosystem.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Apricorn Poké Ball Creation
Apricorns are more than just colorful fruits; they are a testament to the strategic depth of the Pokémon world. By understanding which Apricorn corresponds to which Poké Ball, and by applying this knowledge strategically, trainers can significantly improve their chances of capturing the Pokémon they desire. From the Level Ball’s dominance over weaker opponents to the Love Ball’s efficiency in capturing opposite-gender counterparts, each Apricorn Poké Ball offers a unique advantage. So, venture out, collect those Apricorns, and become a master of Poké Ball creation! Mastering the art of Apricorn Poké Ball creation is not just about knowing the recipes; it’s about understanding the intricacies of Pokémon battles and tailoring your Poké Ball choices to the specific encounter. The combination of the player’s game knowledge and the unique effects provided by each Apricorn can guarantee success on the battlefield.
What are Apricorns, and where can I find them in the Pokémon games?
Apricorns are special fruits that grow on trees in certain Pokémon games. They can be harvested and then crafted into unique Poké Balls by a skilled Poké Ball maker. Different colored Apricorns create different types of Poké Balls, each with its own catch rate and special effect.
Apricorns are typically found growing on trees in specific locations across the regions where they are available, such as Johto and Hisui. The specific locations and methods for acquiring them can vary from game to game. In some games, they can be found simply by interacting with the trees, while in others, you might need to use a headbutt move to knock them down.
Which Apricorn is used to make a Fast Ball, and what is its primary effect?
A Fast Ball is made using a Yellow Apricorn. You’ll need to find a Yellow Apricorn growing on a tree and bring it to Kurt in Azalea Town (or the equivalent crafting mechanism in other games). He will then craft it into a Fast Ball for you.
The primary effect of a Fast Ball is that it has a higher catch rate when used on Pokémon with a base Speed stat of 100 or higher. This makes it useful for catching speedy Pokémon that are difficult to catch with standard Poké Balls. This means Pokémon like Jolteon or Crobat are easier to catch.
How does the Lure Ball work, and which Apricorn is needed to craft it?
The Lure Ball is particularly effective when used to catch Pokémon that are encountered while fishing or surfing. Its increased catch rate in these situations makes it a favorite among trainers who enjoy fishing. This makes it efficient when finding water-type Pokémon.
To craft a Lure Ball, you’ll need a Blue Apricorn. Just like with other Apricorn Poké Balls, you must deliver the Blue Apricorn to the crafting NPC within the game who specializes in making Poké Balls from Apricorns. Then, they’ll create the Lure Ball for you.
What is the primary benefit of using a Heavy Ball, and which Apricorn creates it?
The Heavy Ball is designed to make it easier to catch particularly heavy Pokémon. Its catch rate is significantly improved when used on Pokémon that weigh a substantial amount, making it ideal for catching Pokémon like Snorlax or Aggron. The heavier the Pokémon, the better the ball works.
A Black Apricorn is needed to create a Heavy Ball. This Apricorn, when brought to the appropriate crafting NPC, will be transformed into a Heavy Ball ready for use. Finding a Black Apricorn is key to obtaining this specialized Poké Ball.
How does the Love Ball function, and which Apricorn is required for its creation?
The Love Ball is tailored for catching Pokémon that are of the same species and opposite gender as your active Pokémon in battle. It significantly increases the catch rate in these specific circumstances, making it a strategic choice when trying to breed or collect specific Pokémon.
A Pink Apricorn is required to create a Love Ball. To obtain a Love Ball, you must find a Pink Apricorn and then give it to the person in charge of crafting Poké Balls from Apricorns. It’s a favorite choice for Pokémon breeders.
Which Apricorn makes a Friend Ball, and what is its special effect outside of catching Pokémon?
A Green Apricorn is needed to make a Friend Ball. This Apricorn, when crafted into a Friend Ball, holds a unique property beyond simply catching Pokémon. This makes it unique compared to other Apricorn Poké Balls.
When a Pokémon is caught in a Friend Ball, its initial friendship level is set to 200, which is significantly higher than the base level. This makes it easier and faster to evolve Pokémon that evolve based on friendship, such as Golbat or Eevee. This saves time and effort compared to catching Pokémon in other types of Poké Balls.
What is the effect of a Moon Ball, and what Apricorn is required to make one?
The Moon Ball is specifically designed to make it easier to catch Pokémon that evolve using a Moon Stone. It boasts a significantly increased catch rate when used on these types of Pokémon, such as Nidorino, Nidorina, or Clefairy, streamlining the process of acquiring these evolved forms.
To create a Moon Ball, you need a Yellow Apricorn. Once you have obtained the Yellow Apricorn, you can bring it to the crafting NPC, such as Kurt in Azalea Town in the Johto region. The NPC will then transform the Yellow Apricorn into a Moon Ball.