Struggling to catch Legendary Pokémon? A Pokémon catch rate calculator helps you predict success before wasting Poké Balls. This guide breaks down the math, best strategies, and even includes a Pokémon BDSP catch rate calculator reference.
How Pokémon Catch Rates Work
The game uses a formula to determine your success. Here’s the simplified version:
Catch Rate Formula
Catch Probability=(3×Max HP−2×Current HP3×Max HP)×Base Catch Rate×Ball Modifier×Status ModifierCatch Probability=(3×Max HP3×Max HP−2×Current HP)×Base Catch Rate×Ball Modifier×Status Modifier
Key Variables
| Factor | Effect on Catch Rate |
|---|---|
| Low HP | Increases odds (use False Swipe for 1 HP) |
| Status Condition | Sleep (2.5x) > Frozen (2x) > Paralyze/Burn/Poison (1.5x) |
| Poké Ball Type | Ultra Ball (2x), Dusk Ball (3.5x in caves/night), Timer Ball (4x after 10 turns) |
Best Poké Balls for Catching Pokémon
| Ball Type | Catch Modifier | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Poké Ball | 1x | Early-game, common Pokémon |
| Great Ball | 1.5x | Mid-game encounters |
| Ultra Ball | 2x | High-level & evolved Pokémon |
| Dusk Ball | 3.5x (night/caves) | Nocturnal or cave Pokémon |
| Timer Ball | Up to 4x (after 10 turns) | Legendary & stubborn Pokémon |
| Quick Ball | 5x (first turn only) | Fast captures |
How to Use a Pokémon Catching Calculator
- Enter the Pokémon’s:
- Base catch rate (e.g., 3 for Legendaries, 255 for Magikarp)
- Current & max HP
- Status condition (if any)
- Select your Poké Ball (Ultra Ball, Dusk Ball, etc.)
- Get your success % – Adjust strategy if odds are low!
Pro Tip: In Pokémon BDSP, use Quick Balls on turn 1 and switch to Timer Balls after 10 turns for Legendaries.
5 Ways to Improve Catch Rates
✔ Lower HP (use False Swipe for 1 HP)
✔ Inflict Sleep (highest catch bonus)
✔ Use the right ball (Dusk Ball at night, Timer Ball for long battles)
✔ Check catch rates online (e.g., Pokémon BDSP catch rate calculator)
✔ Chain captures (increases odds in some games)
FAQs
Does False Swipe improve catch rates?
Yes! It leaves Pokémon at 1 HP, maximizing the formula’s HP factor.
Which Pokémon has the lowest catch rate?
Legendaries like Mewtwo (3), while Magikarp is easiest (255).
Is there a Pokémon BDSP catch rate calculator?
Yes! Sites like Pokemonshowdowncalc and Bulbapedia have updated calculators for Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl.