Maxing Individual Values (IVs)

Learn how to breed Pokémon with perfect Individual Values (IVs) in Pokémon X and Y. This guide details the process using Ditto, Everstone, and Destiny Knot for max stats.

This guide explains how to breed Pokémon to achieve perfect Individual Values (IVs) in all six stats in Pokémon X and Y. IVs range from 0 to 31 and boost a Pokémon's stat growth at level 100. Combining max IVs with an ideal nature and maxed EVs can significantly increase a Pokémon's stats.

The process requires a Ditto with at least two perfect IVs, which can be obtained from the Friend Safari or Pokémon Village. Combining this with the Masuda method can also increase the chance of hatching a Shiny Pokémon.

To start breeding, you'll need a female Pokémon of the desired species and a Ditto. The Pokémon with the desired Nature should hold an Everstone to pass the Nature to the offspring. The offspring should then hold a Destiny Knot for breeding with a second Ditto that has different perfect IVs. After hatching, breed this child (holding the Destiny Knot) with a third Ditto. This process, while potentially tedious due to the Destiny Knot's random nature, aims to produce a child with perfect IVs.

It's important to note that perfection isn't always necessary. The Destiny Knot guarantees 5 IVs will be passed down, with the 6th being random. A 5 IV Pokémon is often sufficient, especially if a Pokémon doesn't require both Attack and Special Attack to be maxed, allowing trainers to stop breeding once they achieve the desired stats.

For a more detailed example, consider breeding a perfect-IV Delphox. This requires specific Dittos nicknamed for their maxed IVs (e.g., "HP/Sp.Atk.", "Df/Sp.Def.", "Spd./Atk."), a Destiny Knot, and an Everstone if a specific nature is desired.

The Process (Example for Delphox):

Generation 1: Breed a Delphox (or Fennekin) with a Ditto holding the Everstone (if needed for nature). The Ditto should have maxed HP and Special Attack IVs. This results in a Fennekin with at least two perfect IVs.

Generation 2: Breed the first-generation Fennekin with a second Ditto (e.g., "Df/Sp.Def."). The Fennekin holds the Destiny Knot, and the Ditto holds the Everstone. This typically yields a second-generation Fennekin with four perfect IVs.

Generation 3: Breed the second-generation Fennekin (holding the Destiny Knot) with a third Ditto (e.g., "Spd./Atk.") holding the Everstone. This generally results in a third-generation Fennekin with perfect IVs in all six stats and the desired nature. This Pokémon can then be leveled to 36 to evolve into Delphox.