Pokémon breeding, introduced in Generation II, is a powerful tool for obtaining Pokémon with specific moves, better stats, or even rare forms like Shiny Pokémon. The Day Care Center on Route 34 is where you can leave two compatible Pokémon to produce an Egg.
- Compatibility: Two Pokémon can breed if they are of opposite genders and belong to the same Egg Group. Ditto can breed with almost any Pokémon (except other Dittos, legendary Pokémon, and baby Pokémon), regardless of Egg Group or gender.
- Egg Moves: If the male parent knows a move that the baby Pokémon can learn as an Egg Move, the baby will hatch knowing that move. This is crucial for passing down powerful or unique moves.
- IV Inheritance: In Generation II, IVs are partially inherited. The baby will inherit one IV from each parent (HP, Attack, Defense, Special, Speed). This allows for some control over the offspring's stats, though it's still largely random.
- Shiny Breeding: If one of the parents is a Shiny Pokémon, the chance of the offspring being Shiny is significantly increased (1/64 chance). This is the most reliable way to get Shiny Pokémon in Crystal.
- Odd Egg: In Crystal, you receive an 'Odd Egg' from the Day Care Man. This egg has a 14% chance of hatching into a Shiny baby Pokémon (Pichu, Cleffa, Igglybuff, Tyrogue, Smoochum, Elekid, Magby), and the baby will always know Dizzy Punch.
Breeding is a time-consuming but rewarding process for serious trainers looking to optimize their teams.