Pokémon GO raids are a pivotal feature in this augmented-reality game, where players band together to battle powerful Pokémon and ultimately capture them. Knowing the best Pokémon for raids can significantly enhance your chances of success. Below is a detailed analysis of the top contenders, categorized by their roles and types, along with tips for maximizing your raid effectiveness.
1. Top Offensive Pokémon
1.1. Rayquaza
Rayquaza is often considered the best Dragon-type attacker in Pokémon GO. With its impressive attack stat of 330, it excels in both raids and PvP. Rayquaza’s moveset, including Dragon Ascent and Hurricane, allows it to deal significant damage. Its versatility makes it ideal against various Raid Bosses, especially those weak to Dragon or Flying types.
1.2. Garchomp
As a dual Dragon/Ground-type, Garchomp boasts a stellar attack of 277. It’s a robust choice against Electric- or Rock-type raids. With moves like Earthquake and Dragon Claw, Garchomp delivers consistent damage. Its versatility enables it to switch roles, making it suitable against a broad spectrum of Raid Bosses.
1.3. Mewtwo
Mewtwo remains a top-tier Pokémon due to its balanced stats and high attack power of 300. With access to powerful moves like Psystrike and Shadow Ball, it excels against Ghost and Psychic-type Pokémon. Mewtwo’s adaptability allows it to serve well in multiple raid scenarios.
1.4. Lucario
Lucario, known for its Steel/Fighting typing, has a considerable attack stat of 263. It is particularly effective in raids featuring Fairy-type Pokémon, with moves like Counter and Aura Sphere. This makes Lucario a valuable asset in diverse raid encounters.
2. Best Defensive Pokémon
2.1. Dialga
Dialga, with its Steel/Dragon typing, provides excellent bulk with an impressive defensive stat of 268. It is resistant to numerous types, including Fairy and Psychic. Moves like Metal Claw and Draco Meteor make it not only a sturdy defender but an effective attacker in raids against Fairy-types.
2.2. Snorlax
Known for its extreme bulk, Snorlax boasts an HP stat of 330. While it may not have the highest attack, its moveset, comprising Body Slam and Hyper Beam, allows it to withstand numerous hits while consistently dealing damage. Snorlax’s unique typing offers substantial resistance to Ghost attacks, making it a dependable option for various raids.
2.3. Blissey
Blissey features a whopping 510 HP, making it the bulkiest Pokémon in the game. Its defensive capabilities make it an invaluable asset in gym defenses and raids requiring endurance. Hyper Beam and Dazzling Gleam allow it to deal effective damage while soaking up massive amounts of incoming attacks.
2.4. Togekiss
Togekiss combines Fairy and Flying types, providing reliable resistance against many threats. With a defense stat of 215 and access to moves like Air Slash and Dazzling Gleam, it can stand against Dragon- and Fighting-type raids effectively.
3. Top Support Pokémon
3.1. Kyogre
Kyogre’s Water-type prowess makes it a fantastic support Pokémon in raids. With high attack and decent defense stats, Kyogre can comfortably fill both roles. Moves like Surf and Hydro Pump enable it to amplify damage during battles against Fire or Rock-type Raid Bosses.
3.2. Gardevoir
Gardevoir is invaluable for its supportive capabilities, boasting a strong Psychic/Fairy typing. It can deal heavy damage with Psychic and provide strategic advantages with moves like Future Sight, allowing your team to maximize DPS during encounters.
3.3. Cresselia
Cresselia, a Psychic-type Pokémon, is regarded as one of the best for providing support in raids. Its high defensive stats contribute to its longevity, and moves like Psycho Cut and Moonblast allow it to function as a damage-dealer while also shielding teammates from threats.
3.4. Whimsicott
Whimsicott’s Grass/Fairy typing provides unique advantages when confronting specific raid bosses, especially Dragon and Water types. It can utilize moves like Wind and Grass Knot, adding utility by buffing allies or debuffing opponents.
4. Coverage Pokémon for Raids
4.1. Metagross
Metagross is a premier Steel/Psychic-type Pokémon that excels at taking on Fairy and Ice-type raids. With high attack stats and powerful moves like Meteor Mash and Bullet Punch, it delivers consistent damage while being challenging to take down.
4.2. Salamence
With a dual Dragon/Flying typing and a robust attack stat, Salamence excels in raid scenarios. It is particularly effective against Grass and Bug types, employing moves like Outrage and Aerial Ace for significant damage output.
4.3. Inferneape
Inferneape merges Fire and Fighting types, providing coverage against a variety of types in raids. Its high attack stats make it formidable, especially against Ice, Steel, and Normal-type Pokémon. Moves like Flare Blitz and Close Combat make it a reliable damage dealer.
4.4. Tyranitar
Tyranitar is a powerful Dark/Rock-type with outstanding bulk and attack stats. It is most effective against Ghost and Psychic types, utilizing a moveset featuring Stone Edge and Crunch. Tyranitar’s resilience allows it to sustain attacks while delivering punishing damage.
5. Raid Strategy
5.1. Type Matchups
Understanding type advantages is crucial when forming a raid team. Research each Raid Boss’s typing to develop a balanced team that maximizes damage while minimizing weaknesses. Utilizing Pokémon with resistances can help maintain your team’s fighting capability longer.
5.2. CP and IVs
Select Pokémon with high Combat Power (CP) and Individual Values (IVs) for optimal performance. Pokémon with higher IVs typically have better stats, allowing them to perform better in raids.
5.3. Move Optimization
Focus on optimal movesets for each Pokémon, catering to the specifics of the Raid Boss. Using moves that take advantage of the opponent’s weaknesses will ensure that you deal maximum damage swiftly.
5.4. Coordinated Teamwork
Engage with friends or fellow players to create a coordinated team or utilize popular online communities for advice. Sharing team lineups and strategies can enhance your overall raid success.
Chasing down powerful Raid Bosses in Pokémon GO requires a diverse and strategic approach to team selection. By understanding type advantages, employing optimal Pokémon, and optimizing movesets, trainers can maximize their effectiveness in raids and secure the coveted captures that await. Whether utilizing powerful attackers, sturdy defenders, or reliable supports, having a well-rounded roster will significantly enhance your Pokémon GO experience.
