Pokémon GO offers thousands of possible combinations, from costumes and evolutions to shinies and PvP specialists. But limited storage space means you need a consistent, logical system to determine what’s worth keeping and what should become candy. Without clear rules, your Pokémon box can become overwhelming and inefficient. This guide provides a complete framework, including a questionnaire and tools, to help you build a balanced, valuable collection and avoid unnecessary clutter.

Core Storage Rules

Use these rules to manage your Pokémon with purpose and consistency.

1. One of Each Evolution Line
Keep one of each Pokémon in its final evolution form. Optionally, retain earlier stages if you enjoy having the full line. For example: Charmander, Charmeleon, and Charizard.

2. Three of Each Costume Variant
Costume Pokémon are seasonal or event-specific. Keep three of each version: one for your collection, and two for trading. Many costumes can’t evolve, making them even more collectible and valuable in trades.

3. Three Shinies per Evolution Line
Shinies are rare and often desirable. Keep three of each shiny evolutionary line: one to display, two to trade. For example, one shiny Charmander, Charmeleon, and Charizard. If you only have one, keep it in its most recognizable or useful form.

4. One 100 IV Pokémon
Any Pokémon with perfect stats should be kept. Even if it’s not useful for raids or battles now, it may become relevant later. These are rare and highly desirable in trades or for showcasing.

5. One PvP-Specialized Pokémon per League
Pokémon used in PvP often have unconventional IV spreads. Use a PvP ranking tool to check viability for Great League and Ultra League. Keep any that rank highly, even if their CP or IVs seem low by normal standards.

6. One High-CP Pokémon for Raids or Gyms
Keep at least one high-CP version of any strong attacker or defender. This version is often not ideal for PvP but may be excellent for gym defense or raid damage.

7. One with Exclusive or Legacy Moves
Legacy moves (those no longer obtainable) and exclusive event attacks should be preserved. These moves can give a Pokémon a competitive edge or collectible value.

8. One Shadow and One Purified Variant per Species
Keep one strong Shadow Pokémon for PvE when applicable. Also keep one purified version if you want it for quests, collections, or exclusive moves.

9. One of Each Regional Pokémon
Pokémon exclusive to certain geographic regions are ideal for trading. Keep one of each for your collection, and extras for friends or special trades.

10. One of Each Special Event Pokémon
Some Pokémon have unique backgrounds, capture animations, or seasonal spawns. These are typically one-time only and worth saving for collectors or traders.

Transfer to Candy If…

• You have stronger versions of the same Pokémon by stats, rarity, or purpose.
• It is not shiny, regional, costume, shadow, or legacy.
• The IVs are poor and it’s not PvP-relevant.
• You have already completed the evolution line.
• You have more than three of the same shiny or costume form.
• It has no collectible, functional, or emotional value.

Evaluation Questionnaire

Before transferring any Pokémon, ask yourself the following:

1. Do I already have this Pokémon’s evolution line covered?
2. Is this a unique costume or event version? Do I already have three?
3. Is it shiny? Do I have up to three for this line?
4. Is it a 100 IV Pokémon?
5. Is it ranked well for PvP in Great or Ultra League?
6. Does it have an exclusive or legacy move?
7. Is this the only version I have with shadow or purified status?
8. Is it region-specific or otherwise rare?
9. Do I have emotional or story-based attachment to this Pokémon?
10. Would I regret not having this later?

If most answers are no, the Pokémon can probably be turned into candy.

Tools to Help With Decisions

• PvPoke (pvpoke.com): Check competitive rankings and IV spreads for PvP battles.
• Calcy IV / Pokegenie: Use these apps to scan stats, tag Pokémon, and assess value.
• In-Game Tags: Tag Pokémon with labels like “Shiny,” “Trade,” “PvP,” “100IV,” or “Evolve” to stay organized.

Additional Storage Tips

• Rename Smartly: Use names like “Azumarill PvP 98%” or “Shadow 100 Raikou” to quickly find important Pokémon.
• Keep Extras for Trades: Shinies, costumes, and regionals are always in demand.
• Audit Weekly: Regularly review your storage and clear out duplicates or low-value Pokémon.
• Sort by Purpose: Use tags and filters to group Pokémon by function (PvP, Raid, Collector, Trade, etc.).

Conclusion

Pokémon GO is about exploration, strategy, and smart collecting. Creating and sticking to rules like keeping three of each shiny and costume Pokémon allows you to balance your storage between personal value, trade opportunities, and battle readiness. This system prevents regret, supports social gameplay, and makes your collection easier to manage long-term. Every Pokémon in your box should have a reason for being there. When it does, you’ll always know what to keep and what to release without hesitation.