You Want to Trade That? A Hilarious Look at Stardust Costs in Pokemon Go
Ah, Pokemon Go trading. A glorious mechanic that lets you finally unload that collection of Zubats onto your unsuspecting neighbor... but wait! Before you unleash your Zubat army, there's a little hurdle to jump over: Stardust. Yep, trading those pocket monsters comes at a cost, and it can vary wildly depending on how much the game wants to test your friendship (and wallet).
The Stardust Spectrum: From Chump Change to "Sell Your Kidney" Expensive
Trading 101: The Base Cost
Let's start with the basics. Every trade has a base cost that depends on the distance the Pokemon has traveled to get to you. Local Zubats? Cheap trade. Traded a legendary from across the globe obtained via suspicious methods? Prepare to cough up some serious stardust.
Friendship Levels: BFF Bonus or Barely Acquaintances Blues?
Here's where things get interesting. The higher your friendship level with the poor soul you're trading with, the cheaper the whole ordeal becomes. Think of it as a "friendship discount." Strangers? Get ready to pay full price. Best buddies who share raid secrets and pineapple pizza opinions? Those trades become delightfully affordable.
The Pokedex Factor: "Seen One, Traded Them All"
Now, let's talk about the Pokemon itself. Have you caught a million Zubats and their evolutions? Great news! Trading another one becomes a breeze. But if that Pokemon is a new entry for your friend's Pokedex, brace yourself for a stardust nosebleed. Gotta catch 'em all, gotta pay to trade 'em all, apparently.
Special Trades: When Regular Stardust Just Won't Do
There's a whole other category of trades called Special Trades. Think legendaries, mythicals, and anything else that screams "rare." These trades require a higher base cost and forget the friendship discount – they come at a premium no matter how many times you've raided together.
The Bottom Line: Trade Wisely, My Friends!
So, there you have it, trainers. The wonderful, wacky world of Pokemon Go trading costs. Before you initiate a trade, do the math (or at least a rough estimate). Is it worth a small fortune in stardust to finally get rid of that Muk you caught on accident? Will your friend truly appreciate that regional Mr. Mime (jury's out on that one)?
Remember, trainers, trade smart, trade safe, and maybe avoid trading Zubats unless you're REALLY good friends. Happy trading!
