What Does the Star Piece Do in Pokémon GO?
In the vast and immersive world of Pokémon GO, there are numerous items that players can use to enhance their gameplay experience. Among these items, the Star Piece stands out as a valuable resource that many trainers often wonder about. If you’re curious about what the Star Piece does in Pokémon GO, you’re in the right place. This article will delve into the details of this item, its functions, and how it can benefit your journey as a Pokémon trainer.
What is a Star Piece in Pokémon GO?
A Star Piece is a type of item in Pokémon GO that can be obtained through various in-game activities. It is a small, shimmering fragment that resembles a star, hence its name. Unlike other items like Poké Balls or Potions, the Star Piece is not used for catching Pokémon or healing them. Instead, its purpose is entirely different and focuses on enhancing your progress as a trainer.
What Does the Star Piece Do?
The primary function of the Star Piece is to increase the amount of experience points (XP) you earn during certain activities. When you use a Star Piece, it grants you a 50% boost to XP for a duration of 30 minutes. This means that any XP you earn during this time—whether from catching Pokémon, hatching eggs, or completing research tasks—will be significantly increased.
For example, if you catch a Pokémon that normally gives you 100 XP, using a Star Piece will increase that amount to 150 XP. This effect stacks with other XP-boosting items, such as the Lucky Egg, which also provides a 50% XP boost. By combining these items, you can earn even more XP in a shorter amount of time, making your leveling-up process much faster.
How to Use a Star Piece
Using a Star Piece is straightforward. To activate its effects:
Open your Item Bag in the game.
Select the Star Piece from your inventory.
Confirm that you want to use it.
Once activated, the Star Piece’s XP boost will last for 30 minutes. During this time, you can maximize its effects by focusing on activities that give the most XP, such as:
Catching Pokémon: Especially rare or high-CP Pokémon.
Hatching Eggs: Eggs reward a significant amount of XP, especially 10KM eggs.
Completing Research Tasks: Both field research and special research tasks often reward XP.
Evolving Pokémon: Evolving Pokémon gives a substantial XP boost.
How to Obtain Star Pieces
Acquiring Star Pieces can be done through several methods:
Purchasing from the Shop: You can buy Star Pieces using real money in the in-game shop. They are typically sold in bundles, making them a convenient option if you want to stock up.
Research Rewards: Completing certain research tasks, especially those tied to events or special quests, often rewards Star Pieces.
Spinning PokéStops: Occasionally, spinning a PokéStop may reward you with a Star Piece, especially during events or special occasions.
Opening Gifts: Sometimes, gifts from friends may contain Star Pieces as a surprise.
Tips for Using Star Pieces Effectively
To get the most out of your Star Pieces, consider the following tips:
Use Them During High XP Activities: Save your Star Pieces for when you’re planning to do activities that yield a lot of XP, such as Community Days or special events.
Combine with Lucky Eggs: For maximum XP gain, use a Star Piece and a Lucky Egg together. The combined effect will give you a 100% XP boost, doubling your XP earnings.
Plan Ahead: Since the Star Piece lasts for 30 minutes, make sure you have enough time to engage in XP-earning activities before the effect wears off.
Conclusion
The Star Piece is a powerful tool in Pokémon GO that can significantly accelerate your progress as a trainer. By boosting your XP earnings, it helps you level up faster, unlock new items, and strengthen your Pokémon team. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore competitor, the Star Piece is an item worth having in your inventory. So next time you see one in your Item Bag, don’t hesitate to use it—your trainer level (and your Pokémon) will thank you!