EV and IV are terms used in Pokémon games to describe hidden values that influence a Pokémon's stats. IVs determine potential, while EVs determine growth.
Individual Values (IVs)
Individual Values, or IVs, are like a Pokémon's genetic potential. They are fixed, randomly generated numbers at the time you encounter or hatch a Pokémon.
- What they are: Hidden values between 0 and 31 for each of a Pokémon's six stats: HP, Attack, Defense, Special Attack, Special Defense, and Speed.
- How they affect stats: A higher IV in a stat leads to a higher value for that stat at level 100. A perfect IV of 31 in a stat adds 31 points to that stat at level 100.
- Significance: IVs are essential for competitive battling, as even small differences in stats can be crucial. Some players aim to breed for Pokémon with perfect or near-perfect IVs.
- Example: Two Alakazam of the same level and with the same Effort Values can have different Speed stats if one has a higher Speed IV than the other.
Effort Values (EVs)
Effort Values, or EVs, are points a Pokémon earns by battling other Pokémon. They contribute to a Pokémon's stats through training.
- What they are: Hidden values earned by defeating other Pokémon in battle. Different Pokémon give different EV yields.
- How they affect stats: Every 4 EVs in a given stat add 1 point to that stat at level 100. A Pokémon can earn a maximum of 510 EVs total, and no more than 252 EVs in a single stat.
- Significance: EVs allow players to customize a Pokémon's stats to fit a specific role or strategy. For example, a player might max out the Attack and Speed EVs of a sweeper Pokémon to maximize its offensive potential.
- Example: Battling a Pidgey might grant 1 Speed EV. Battling a Zubat grants 1 Speed EV. Defeating enough Pidgey and Zubat could maximize a Pokémon's Speed stat.
IVs vs. EVs: A Table Summary
| Feature | Individual Values (IVs) | Effort Values (EVs) |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Genetic potential, fixed at encounter | Training-based, can be influenced by player |
| Range | 0-31 | 0-252 per stat, 0-510 total |
| Effect | Max +31 points to stat at level 100 | Every 4 EVs = +1 point to stat at level 100 |
| Alterable? | Generally not, but can be Hyper Trained | Yes, through battling and items |
In summary, Individual Values (IVs) are innate potential determined at birth (or capture), while Effort Values (EVs) are earned through training and contribute to stat growth. Both play vital roles in determining a Pokémon's final stats and battle effectiveness.
