In Pokémon GO, Individual Values (IVs) are hidden stat bonuses ranging from 0 to 15 that permanently increase your Pokémon's Attack, Defense, and Stamina (HP). Understanding how IVs interact with base stats and Combat Power (CP) is the foundation of competitive team building.
What Are IVs in Pokémon GO?
Every Pokémon species has fixed base stats. For example, Mewtwo has a Base Attack of 300. An Attack IV of 15 increases Mewtwo's total attack stat to 315. In raids and gym battles, a 15/15/15 "Hundo" (100% IV) provides maximum DPS and survivability.
Why Lower Attack is Better in Great & Ultra League
In CP-capped leagues like Great League (1500 CP cap) and Ultra League (2500 CP cap), Attack is weighted heavily in the CP formula. A Pokémon with low Attack (e.g. 0/15/15) can be powered up to a much higher level, yielding higher overall bulk and higher total stat product.