Highlights

• Grass/Dark: Grass/Dark Type combos can be powerful with attacks against common Types but weak against Fairy and Bug Types.
• Fire/Ghost: Fire/Ghost Type combos bring strength against Psychic and Steel Types, but are weak against Ghost Types.
• Water/Fighting: Water/Fighting Type combos benefit from buffs to enhance strengths and adjust to weaknesses in battle.

Pokemon fans who want to go competitive will want to maximize the combat potential of their Pokemon roster. Those who want to become the next Champion in Nintendo's hit franchise have got to give their A-Game - synergy and strategy play a huge role in any hopeful Champion's arsenal. However, most Pokémon experts rely on Type synergies to maximize the presence of their Pokémon in a match.

Thing is, with 18 Pokemon Types, it's not easy to find the best Pokemon Type Combos out there. With Pokemon having distinct move sets, strengths, and weaknesses associated with each Type, it seems just having the right Type Combination can secure a match.

Updated November 17, 2023 by Rhenn Taguiam: With November 2023’s Pokemon GO events lined up with events such as the Festival Of Lights, Fashion Week, and Party Up!, fans of both the acclaimed AR game and the Pokemon franchise may be excited to figure out which event-exclusive Pokemon works best for their team. However, those who want to maximize their Pokemon builds in both Pokemon GO and the main series titles may want to check out which Type Combinations are must-haves for their main Pokemon. Not only that, players can upgrade their Pokemon game further by checking out what kind of Pokemon work best with the most ideal Type Combinations, giving players some room to tinker with what sorts of teams they can come up with for Gyms, the Elite Four, and the Championship.

13 Grass/Dark

Manageable Weaknesses Through Speed, Healing

Due to how mundane-sounding the Grass-Type seems, it’s pretty surprising to see them paired with Dark-Types due to how unconventional the Type is at first glance. However, this rather odd mix may very well lead to some powerful Pokemon, especially when build correctly. As with other Dual Types, this Typing builds upon the best of what Grass and Dark-Types could offer.

In terms of strength, the Grass/Dark Typing immediately boasts powerful attacks against more common Ground, Rock, and Water-Types, while at the same time packing a punch against rarer Ghost and Psychic Types. However, players need to pay attention to weaknesses as well, as the Typing shares vulnerabilities against common Bug and Fire-Types and is weak against unconventional Fairy-Types.

Notable Pokemon

• Meowscarada: Adorable Sprigatito gets to become the mysterious-looking Meowscarada as a final evolution, and its expanded facial features definitely match its masquerade theme and its elegant Pokemon Typing. Stats-wise, Meowscarada suits the mobile attacker, boasting rather above-average Speed matched with decent Attack, making it more suited for prolonged incursions instead of other Pokemon that bank heavily on Sp. Attack stats.
• Shiftry: Innocent-looking Seedot becomes the rather deadly Shiftry; provided second evolution Nuzleaf gets a Leaf Stone. And when it comes to getting a Pokemon with very average stats, Shiftry definitely fits the bar with almost equal levels of Attack and Sp. Atk, followed closely by HP and Speed. When built properly, Shiftry can become a decent midgame partner.
• Cacturne: Cutesy-spikey Cacnea becomes the imposing Cacturne as soon as it hits Level 32, and it paves the way for a scarecrow aesthetic that may justify its unconventional Grass/Dark Typing. As a higher-tier evolution, Cacturne boasts equal Attack and Sp. Attack followed by decent HP, making it an ideal attacker for mid-level play.

Notable Moves For Grass/Dark Pokemon

• Leaf Storm: Perhaps the bread and butter of a powerhouse like Shiftry, this Grass-type Move can punch through tankier Pokemon with ease
• Darkest Lariat: This heavy-hitting Dark-type Move can ignore stat stage changes, allowing the likes of Zarude to pierce through opponents that rely on buffs
• Taunt: This Dark-type move prevents the target from using status moves within the next three turns, allowing Meowscarada to stop debuff-reliant foes from gaining an advantage

The Ideal Teammates

Given how the Grass/Dark Typing can benefit via immunity towards Psychic-Type attacks and abilities like Prankster that aim to slow them down, the best way to maximize teams of this type is to secure Pokemon that can cover the Grass Type’s inherent weaknesses. Suggested Pokemon to pair with these Pokemon include:

• Nihilego: While this generally works for Pokemon of the same Dual Typing, Nihilego (Poison/Rock) is an ideal choice for Special Attack sweeps. Its Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rocks can make switching deadlier for foes due to them being entry hazards, while Pain Split and Protect can secure fast-paced plays. Pairing Nihilego with a Physical-focused Grass/Dark like Zarude can accommodate a lot of Type setups.
• Zarude, Swampert, Hippowdon, Slowking, Moltres: Building upon a Nihilego setup is this Mythical Pokemon’s Jungle Healing, allowing it to play offense while securing the safety of heals with the right switch-ins with recommended pivots. In turn, teammates such as Moltres (Fire/Flying), Slowking (Water/Psychic), Hippowdon (Ground), and Swampert (Water/Ground) should secure Zarude’s defensive blockages with their respective strengths.

12 Fire/Ghost

Unconventional Types Can Become Easier To Deal With, Defend From

When one hears of a Fire-Type, common partner Types immediately include Dragon and Ground Types, mainly due to themes. In turn, seeing Fire being paired with Ghost for the Fire/Ghost Typing seems like a rather odd choice, especially regarding statistics. The Fire/Ghost Type immediately brings strength to the table, particularly against rather unconventional Types such as Psychic and Steel.

However, players may also want to note odd elements regarding this Typing. Thanks to the Ghost Type another half, these Pokemon are immediately immune to Normal and Fighting Types. Interestingly enough, players need to be wary that the Ghost Typing means these Fire/Ghost Pokemon are weak against and strong against fellow Ghost-Types.

Notable Pokemon

• Skeledirge: Befitting Skeledirge’s aesthetic is its Fire/Ghost Typing, especially since its markings seem to resemble those used in the Mexican Day of the Dead holiday. Stats-wise, this Fire/Ghost Pokemon seems rather a decent all-rounder, boasting higher Sp. Attack edged closely by average HP and Defense stats.
• Marowak (Alolan): Players in the Alola region can get an alternative form of Marowak if they evolve it at night, attaining a more spectral motif but boasting the same stats. Despite its Fire/Ghost Typing, Alolan Marowak boasts much higher Defense and equal but lower Attack and Sp. Defense stats, making the Marowak more ideal for tanking.
• Typhlosion (Hisuian): Cindaquil’s final form has an edgier Hisuian variant, boasting a more intimidating set of purple flames compared to the conventional spiky set of its Kantonian counterpart. Stats-wise, Kantonian Typhlosion loses out to its Hisuian variant with regards to Sp. Attack but makes up for it with slightly higher HP and Speed. Players may want to opt for the Hisuian Typhlosion for a more offensive-leaning Pokemon juggernaut for most combat situations.

Notable Moves For Fire/Ghost Pokemon

• Shadow Ball: This Ghost-type Move has a 20% chance to inflict -1 Sp. Def to the target, allowing Chandelure to use Special Attacks with more power or set up other Pokemon to inflict more damage with their Specials
• Bitter Blade: A Fire-type Move that heals the user for 50% of the damage they deal, Bitter Blade gives excellent sustains to users like Ceruledge
• Torch Song: This Fire-type Move guarantees a +1 to Sp. Atk, allowing users like Skeledirge to boost the damage of Specials such as burning WIll-O-Wisp and double-powering Hex

The Ideal Teammates

The Fire/Ghost Dual Typing’s inherent weaknesses to Dark, Ghost, Ground, Rock, and Water means a team with these Pokemon need to work their way around different Type Attacks. Instead of accommodating each of these Types, however, players may simply want to be able to get out of sticky situations whenever necessary. Here are some setups to consider:

• Ceruledge, Flutter Mane, Misdreavus, Hisuian Zoroark: When built correctly, Ceruledge (Fire/Ghost) with Shadow Sneak gets priority in the party, securing more damage while boasting some durability. Should enemy Pokemon pose significant speed threats, Misdreavus (Ghost) can switch Speed priority via Trick Room and further improve Ceruledge’s Fire Moves and Hisuian Zoroark (Normal, Ghost)’s Flamethrower via Sunny Day. Lastly, Flutter Mane (Ghost/Fairy) and its Dark Type neutrality can add more defenses to the team.
• Chandelure, Ice Rider Calyrex, Indeedee, Kyogre: This Fire/Ghost team focuses on securing Trick Room to manipulate the flow of turns in a match, with the Move courtesy of Chandelure (Fire/Ghost) and Indeedee (Psychic/Normal). With Ice Rider Calyrex (Psychic/Ice), players get the flexibility to secure a more powerful Ice Beam for sweeps, while they can setup Kyogre (Water) however they wish.

11 Water/Fighting

Buffs Can Enhance Strengths, Adjust To Weaknesses

It’s not often that a Pokemon can ever tout both a Water and a Fighting Typing, mainly due to how unconventional their themes could get. However, the image of a martial artist being rather slippery to avoid enemy blows is precisely what the Water/Fighting Type would boast.

At its core, the Water/Fighting would bring in some of the best Attacks against rather powerful Pokemon Typings, prevalent ones such as Fire and Ground, while simultaneously being able to dish out damage against unconventional foes such as Dark and Steel Types. Unfortunately, players need to note that this Typing is a double-edged sword, as this Dual Type is weak against common Grass Types and Psychic Types.

Notable Pokemon

• Quaquaval: Generation 9 newcomer Quaquaval seems like an adequate example of an effective Water/Fighting Type. Built around the theme of the Rio Carnival, Quaquaval definitely has a more festive feel, with its allure being represented by its more combative stats set. It has much higher base Attack, followed closely by near-equal stats across the other attributes. This makes Quaquaval a more offensive-leaning Pokemon, working quite well with its potential Moveset.
• Poliwrath: The Water/Fighting Typing isn’t entirely new, considering Poliwrath boasts this combination as early as Generation 1 and then moving on from Pokemon region to region. Befitting this Typing is a rather decent stats set, which have very close Defense, HP, and Sp. Defense numbers despite being slightly below average. Regardless, leveling up a Poliwrath could make it a decent mid-level companion.

Notable Moves For Water/Fighting Pokemon

• Scald: This Water-type Move has a 30% chance to inflict a burn status on the target, thawing them simultaneously if frozen. The Move diversifies the kit of Poliwrath, whose Moves often need it to outpace enemies before they knock them down
• Bulk Up: This traditional Fighting-type Move gives +1 Attack an Defense to the user, allowing Quaquaval to hit much harder with the rest of its kit, especially when buffed

The Ideal Teammates

While the Water/Fighting Dual Typing doesn’t suffer from the crippling 4X Damage from Grass, the number of Weaknesses still pose a threat to a player’s main Pokemon with this setup. In turn, teams may want to include the following:

• Poliwrath, Empoleon, Kingdra, Starmie: Should players aim to cover their ground on Water-Type weaknesses, grabbing teammates of other Dual Typings could help compensate for potential weaknesses. Poliwrath (Water/Fighting), Empoleon (Water/Steel), Kingdra (Water/Dragon), and even Starmie (Water/Psychic) should balance out some of this Dual Type’s glaring weaknesses.
• Quaquaval, Corviknight, Amoonguss, Clodsire, Roaring Moon: This team is centered around Quaquaval (Water/Fight) using Bulk Up and Aqua Step to secure both defenses and speed respectively. Quaquaval can enjoy a much-needed speed upgrade with Corviknight (Steel/Flying) and its Tailwind, while Amoonguss (Grass/Poison) and Clodsire (Poison/Ground) accommodates physical and special attacks, respectively. Lastly, Roaring Moon (Dragon/Dark) is a secondary attacker.

10 Fire/Fighting

Straightforward Offense Can Pulverize Careless Foes

Granted, some might say that the Fire/Fighting Dual Type is too common of a combination. It also doesn't help that it has weaknesses to the more common Ground Types and the more potent Flying and Psychic Types. However, those who can make fast-paced builds can work around these weaknesses and capitalize on Fire/Fighting and its strengths.

Essentially, the Fighting Type aspect finally removes the Fire Type's innate weakness from Fire. Moreover, players can capitalize on ever-helpful Fire Type and Fighting Type maneuvers such as Flamethrower and Close Combat.

Notable Fire/Fighting Pokemon

• Blaziken (Mega Evolution, Combusken): Of Torchic’s evolutionary tree, it’s Combusken that begins to tap into their nature as half-Fighting Pokemon. They meet their true potential in Blaziken, and especially Mega Blaziken. Blaziken boasts decent Attack and Special Attack.
• Infernape (Monferno): Similar to Torchic, Chimchar starts tapping into its Fighting Type half with Monferno, and then eventually Infernape. They have lower base stats compared to Combusken, but Infernape does boast Speed equal to its Attack and Special Attack.
• Emboar (Pignite): Again with Torchic and Chimchar, Tepig meets the same Fire/Fighting tandem courtesy of Pignite, and then Emboar. Stats-wise, Emboar is more of a tank given its decent HP to pair with its Attack and Special Attack.

Notable Moves For Fire/Fighting Pokemon

• Swords Dance: While a Normal-type Move, its capacity to give +2 Attack to users allows the likes of Blaziken to punch their way through threats much faster with the rest of its toolkit
• Fire Blast: This Fire-type Move has a 10% chance of inflicting Burn on the target, allowing a well-kitted Infernape to use this with Sp. Def-debuffing Focus Blast to potentially OHKO even Fire-resistant foes
• Flare Blitz: While this move possesses 33% recoil, this Fire-type Move also allows Emboar to inflict burn on the target at 10%, making this a debilitating DOT-dealer while Emboar punches for the kill

The Ideal Teammates

Despite the infamy of the Fire/Fighting Typing among Starters, fans who want to take advantage of fast-paced plays may want to consider upping their defenses against specialized Flying, Ground, Psychic, and Water Types. In this regard, team setups to consider could be composed of:

• Blaziken, Heatran, Volcanion, Torkoal: On top of Blaziken (Fire/Fighting) boasting decent DPS, disabling Held Items via Knock Off and securing defenses via Protect can make him a decent frontliner for Fire Teams. Meanwhile, Heartran (Fire/Steel) and Volcanion (Fire/Water) should accommodate resistances towards Water and dish out damage against Ground Types. Lastly, Torkoal’s boosted defenses alongside Rapid Spin and Stealth Rock should make fights more difficult for opponents.
• Blaziken, Quaquaval, Great Tusk, Hawlucha, Annihilape: This more experimental take on the Dual Typing focuses on heavy-hitting fighters, with Blaziken taking the lead to accommodate Fire threats. Quaquaval (Water/Fighting) can boost its Speed with Rapid Spin and get an Attack boost after a knockout with Moxie, transforming into the team’s ace. Great Tusk (Ground/Fighting) accommodates heavy defensive roles, whereas Hawlucha (Fighting/Flying) and Annihilape (Fighting/Ghost) provide extra flexibility.

9 Water/Fairy

Common Type Weaknesses A Reasonable Trade For Powerful Defense

The Water/Fairy Dual Type evidently rises to the occasion when it comes to decently balancing a Pokémon's inherent weakness/resistance statistics. Granted, this Type Combination does have weaknesses in the form of Electric, Grass, and Poison Pokémon. However, its inherent defensive resistances and offensive advantages trump more powerful Pokémon teams.

For instance, Fairy contributes an innate immunity to the Dragon Type - great for canceling out the popularity of Dragon Type in the meta. Its resistances also form a great defense against powerful attacks such as Ice Beam, Hydro Pump, Flamethrower, and good ol' melee combat. Lastly, this type is a nightmare of naturally-potent Types, perfect to counter otherwise strong setups.

Notable Water/Fairy Pokemon

• Azumarill (Marill): The Azurill evolutionary tree enjoys the Water/Fairy typing, courtesy of Azumarill, which is the evolved form of Marill, which then comes from getting enough friendship with Azurill. Azumarill boasts decent HP, Defense, and Sp. Def, making it a good tanking Pokemon.
• Primarina: Popplio’s final form, in the form of Primarina, will have to get through the Brionne middle evolution before enjoying this Water/Fairy Typing.
• Tapu Fini: This guardian deity of Poni Island has separate typing compared to fellow guardians Bulu, Lele, and Koko. Given its nature, Tapu Fini has above-average base stats, with higher levels of Special Defense and Defense.

Notable Moves For Water/Fairy Pokemon

• Aqua Jet: This Water-type Move lets Pokemon like Azumarill go first, allowing it to dish out damage and give it time to buff its attacks before stronger Pokemon retaliate
• Hydro Pump: Being one of the most iconic Water-type Moves in the series, Pokemon like Primarina can use this ability to dish out direct heavy damage. It’s advisable to boost Primarina’s accuracy, as Hydro Pump can be inaccurate
• Draining Kiss: Quite the efficient recovery skill, Draining Kiss allows Tapu Fini not just to deal damage but also get heal for 75% of the damage dealt

The Ideal Teammates

With the Water/Fairy Typing still runs the risk of getting double damage from Electric, Grass, and Poison Types, players may also want to consider capitalizing on dishing out more pain to Types it’s resistant towards. In these instances, ideal teammates are:

• Slowbro, Iron Valiant, Ribombee, Clefable: Players who get a Slowbro (Water/Psychic) can easily dish out more damage against Fighting Types with Calm Mind (raises Sp. Atk, Sp. Def) and Scald (may Burn the target). Clefable (Fairy) can solidify overall defenses, whereas Ribombee (Bug/Fairy) with Sticky Web can slow opponents down. Iron Valiant (Fairy/Fighting) is the team’s main DPS, freely switching to physical or special damage as needed.
• Azumarill, Indeedee, Amoongus: When equipped with a Choice Band, Azumarill (Water/Fairy) easily becomes an offensive powerhouse that can eliminate multiple threats at once courtesy of Ice Punch and Knock Off. A decent teammate for Azumarill could be Indeedee (Psychic/Normal) with Follow Me, Amoonguss (Grass/Poison) with Spore, and Maushold (Normal) for attack redirection and mitigation.

8 Electric/Steel

Adapting To Ground Weaknesses Can Elevate Fast-Paced Plays

Players who want an awesome defensive Dual Type Combination will love the potential of Electric/Steel. In fact, this type alone has the most number of resistances in the series. Aside from its immunity to Poison, an Electric/Steel type can wreck matches with powerhouse moves such as Body Press, Flash Cannon, Thunderbolt, and Magnet Pull.

Granted, this Dual Type Combination has a maddening 4x weakness against Ground and equally frustrating weaknesses against Fire and Fighting. However, players who can work around these caveats can fully capitalize its 11 Resistances to victory.

Notable Electric/Steel Pokemon

• Magnezone (Magneton, Magnemite): When exposed to a Thunder Stone, the otherwise ordinary Magneton can become Magnezone. Now the final form of Magnemite, Magnezone enjoys decent Special Attack coupled with decent base Defense.
• Togedemaru: This adorable roly-poly Pokemon isn’t a pushover, as while it does have average stats, it still fares well against other Pokemon of its caliber. Its high-enough Attack and Speed can make it excel in hit-and-run strategies.

Notable Moves For Electric/Steel Pokemon

• Thunderbolt: Easily one of the best Electric-type Moves in the game, Magneton can use this ability’s 10% chance to paralyze foes to debilitate the enemy’s overall combat strategy
• Flash Cannon: This Steel-type Move has a 10% chance of inflicting -1 Sp. Def. to the target, allowing Magnezone and its allies to unleash more powerful attacks
• Zing Zap: An adorable Togedemaru can use Electric-type Zing Zap to potentially cause foes to flinch, making them miss their turn on top receiving damage

The Ideal Teammates

Players looking for more variety for their Electric/Steel Typing should be very wary of defending not just from Fire and Fighting Types but also devastating Ground Moves. In this regard, securing protections or delaying enemy attacks should be priority for this combination’s teams. Sample setups include:

• Magnezone, Scizor, Heatran, Corviknight, Klefki, Bronzong: Buffing up Magnezone (Electric/Steel) and Scizor (Bug/Steel) in terms of HP and getting Ground neutrality with Heatran (Fire/Ground) secures heavy-duty defense while the rest of the team focus on controlling the flow of combat. In this regard, Corviknight (Flying/Steel) doubling Speed via Tailwind, Klefki (Steel/Fairy) paralyzing targets more efficiently via Thunder Wave and Prankster, and Bronzong reversing turns via Trick Room can ensure players can juggle Moves to accommodate threats.
• Magnezone, Tapu Koko, Raichu, Zapdos, Rotom-W: This alternate setup poses Magnezone as more of a bait for Steel Types and Fairy Types that the rest of the team can eliminate. Tapu Koko (Electric/Fairy) becomes a crucial buffer here, as its Electric Surge boosts Electric Moves by 50%. When paired with Alolan Raichu (Electric), the Pikachu evolution can outmaneuver almost other Pokemon. Lastly, Rotom-W (Electric/Water) and its Hydro Pump can eliminate Ground Pokemon quickly, and Zapdos (Electric/Flying) won’t have to worry about debilitating Ground Move damage.

7 Water/Flying

Can Wreck Traditional Meta Members

Players who want a more straightforward Dual Type Combination will appreciate Water/Flying. Essentially, it does great when it comes to naturally negating each others' weak points. For instance, this Dual Type no longer have their individual aspects' natural weaknesses against Grass Types (for Water), and Ice Types (for Flying).

Likewise, this Dual Type Combination can get deadly against the more common Fighting, Fire, and Ground Types in the meta. Of course, players have to work around this type's natural weakness to Rock Types and its rather deadly 4x weakness against Electric Types.

Notable Water/Flying Pokemon

• Gyarados: Magikarp’s popular evolution Gyarados is one of the most iconic Water/Flying Pokemon out there, boasting high-enough Attack and Special Defense to pepper through most foes and their special movies.
• Mantine (Mantyke): Obtaining this manta ray Pokemon is only achievable by having a Mantyke and a Remoraid in the same party. This seems worth the while, though, given Mantine has ridiculously high Special Defense - making it a fitting tank against Pokemon who love special moves.
• Pelipper (Wingull): This seagull Pokemon evolves from Wingull. And while Pelipper has quite the mundane appearance, they do boast average stats. With a decent Defense and Special Attack, Pelipper can brace through most ordinary Pokemon with ease.
• Swanna (Ducklett): This elegant swan Pokemon evolves from Ducklett, giving it quite a majestic final evolution. It boasts average stats across the board, with almost matching Speed, Special Attack, and Attack that make it quite the surprisingly aggressive Pokemon in a party.

Notable Moves For Water/Flying Pokemon

• Bounce: This Flying-type Move hits on the second turn after it’s released, with a 30% chance to paralyze capable of transforming Gyarados into a fast and aggressive attacker in most combat situations
• Hurricane: This Move has a 30% chance of confusing the target, with the likes of Pelipper being able to use this to distract opponents while it and its allies swoop in for the kill
• Defog: In more challenging fights like in Pokemon Showdown, Swanna’s Defog is an ideal Flying-type Move that can clear entry hazards on top of inflicting -1 Evasion on the target. Sweepers like Swanna who need to get out of battle quickly can enter with Defog to dish out damage with less risks

The Ideal Teammates

The glaring Rock and Electric-Type weaknesses of Water/Flying Dual Types means its teammates have to cover these setbacks to be more effective in battle. When dealt with, however, Water/Flying could pose huge threats in the battlefield. In this case, ideal party members could be:

• Gyarados, Starmie, Swampert: The lethality of Electric Types against this Dual Typing makes Swampert (Water/Ground) a helpful neutralizer. Meanwhile, Starmie (Water/Psychic) being able to cover more ground and Gyarados (Water/Flying) spamming Dragon Dance should be able to help players deal with most threats.
• Pelipper, Azumarill, Bruxish, Floatzel: The potentiality of a Water-heavy setup means Pelipper (Water/Flying) is tasked to double the team’s Speed via Tailwind and reinforce Water Moves via Rain Dance. Both Azumarill (Water/Fairy) and Bruxish (Water/Psychic) extend the team’s defensive capabilities, whereas Floatzel (Water) and its recoiling Wave Crash can be a debiliating Move against foes that is worthy of the self-inflicted damage.

6 Steel/Flying

Decent Defenses Provide Room For Various Attack Strategies

In the right hands, the Steel/Flying Type can spell disaster for opponents. This typing fully maximizes the benefits of both the Steel Type and the Flying Type. Essentially, the Flying Type aspect negates the otherwise-deadly potential of Ground Type. Meanwhile, the Steel Type aspect helps counteract the Flying Type's natural weakness against the Rock Type.

With these synergies in mind, the Steel/Flying combination will remain useful to natural powerhouses amongst competitive Pokémon such as Fairy, Fighting, Ice, and Rock Types. Likewise, it has natural resistances against powerful Dragon and Psyching Types. Players just need to stay wary of the natural weakness towards Fire and Electric Types.

Notable Steel/Flying Pokemon

• Skarmory: This armor bird Pokemon seems simple-looking enough, but it packs quite a decent punch. Skarmory has surprisingly high-enough Defense that makes its defenses hard to tear down even when facing Pokemon above its caliber.
• Corviknight (Gigantamax: This raven Pokemon comes from two former evolutions, Corvisquire and Rookidee. And while its former forms seem mediocre-looking, Corviknight’s edgy look is well-deserved. In its base form, Corviknight boasts decent HP, Attack, Defense, and Special Defense. However, these stats do get a much-needed increase during Gigantamax formats.

Notable Moves For Steel/Flying Pokemon

• Roost: This Flying-type Move removes the Flying-type status of a Pokemon that uses it alongside a 50% HP heal, making this perfect for glass cannon DPS units such as Skarmory to have a reliable sustain as it checks opponents
• Heavy Slam: A defensive Pokemon like Celesteela can have Steel-type Heavy Slam as its primary damage dealer since it deals more damage to opponents lighter than the user. Even without taking weight into account, enemies who don’t resist Steel-type Moves can take heavy damage from this attack

The Ideal Teammates

The inherent weaknesses of Steel/Flying Dual Typings against Fire and Electric means players need a team with members that can counteract these threats. Due to the number of extra Weaknesses this Dual Typing has, it may help to focus instead on general defense and pumping as many attacks as possible. In this regard, suggested teams include:

• Corviknight, Heatran, Ferrothorn, Bisharp, Excadrill, Kartana: In this sample team, Corviknight (Flying/Steel), Ferrothorn (Grass/Steel), and Fire-neutrality via Heatran (Fire/Steel) should help cover most of the Dual Typing’s defensive weaknesses. Meanwhile, variety via Bisharp (Dark/Steel), Excadrill (Ground/Steel), and Kartana (Grass/Steel) should pave the way for heavy-hitting attacks.
• Corviknight, Heatran, Magnezone, Scizor, Klefki, Bronzong: This setup prioritizes battlefield control, wherein Corviknight’s Tailwind can double the Speed of everyone in the party, Klefki (Steel/Fairy) can paralyze enemies with Thunderwave, and Bronzong (Steel/Psychic) can reverse the order of combat when necessary. Players who buff Magnezone (Electric/Steel) and Scizor (Bug/Steel) in terms of HP can set them up as efficient tanks.

5 Ghost/Dark

Fairy Weakness And Psychic Immunity Can Make Battles More Manageable

Of all typings, it's the Ghost/Dark Dual Type that capitalizes on its inherent defensive potential. At its core, this typing only has a weakness against Fairy Types. Moreover, its inherent tactical advantage over more powerful Ghost and Psychic Types can make it a natural force to reckon with. And its immunity over hard-hitting Psychic, Normal, and Fighting Types can make this a force to reckon with.

Unfortunately, despite its inherent strengths, only two Pokémon exist within this Dual Type Combination - namely, Spiritomb and Sableye. It's also at a player's initial advantage that both Pokémon don't boast powerful-enough stats to take on enemies on their own.

In turn, combat would likely have this typing take on a more supportive role. In fact, players can fully capitalize on these Pokémon's innate abilities to turn the tide instead.

Notable Ghost/Dark Pokemon

• Sableye: With its iconic purple skin and red gem, one can’t mistake Sableye for another Pokemon. And courtesy of the Sablenite, Sableye can transform into its much more powerful Mega Sableye iteration. Stats-wise, Sableye has almost equal base numbers for Attack, Defense, Special Attack, and Special Defense. However, when Mega Evolved, Mega Sableye gets a massive boost in Defense and Special Defense, making it much tankier than before.
• Spiritomb: One might look at Spiritomb and understand why it’s classified as the Forbidden Pokemon. Appearing as though only a ghostly purple mass attached to a stone, Spiritomb projects its outward appearance through what’s known as the keystone. Stats-wise, Spiritomb has equal amounts Defense and Special Defense, and equal amounts - but a bit lower - Attack and Special Attack.

Notable Moves For Ghost/Dark Pokemon

• Foul Play: This Dark-type Move inflicts damage based on the target's Attack stat and stage modifiers, not the user’s. However, this move still applies the user’s Attack modifiers. When used correctly, Sableye can inflict massive damage on most foes.
• Sucker Punch: If an opponent prepares an attack the same turn Sucker Punch is used, this Dark-type Move goes first. This fails if the enemy doesn’t have an attack ready. Spiritomb can use this Move to dish out damage much faster than an enemy

The Ideal Teammates

The Ghost/Dark Typing being able to cover much of weaknesses involving specialized Pokemon can make teams built around them especially deadly. However, players who want to experiment with the potential of Ghost/Dark Types may want to consider these setups:

• Sableye, Gengar, Umbreon, Cofagrigus: A Ghost/Dark team brings in the pain early with Sableye (Ghost/Dark), especially with Torment disabling same-Move turns and defensive Substitue. Gengar (Ghost/Poison) holding Black Sludge and using Trick to switch Held Items with opponents can almost always guarantee damage to the possessor. Meanwhile, Umbreon (Dark) and its Heal Bell and Protect can help teams tank Sp. Atk Moves, while Cofagrigus (Ghost) can accommodate threats from basic attacks.
• Sableye, Drifblim, Ceruledge, Misdreavus: An alternate setup to Sableye leading a Ghost/Dark team could have players pair it with Drifblim (Ghost/Flying), wherein Drifblim boosts stats with Stockpile and deal massive damage with Stored Power while Sableye can Shadow Sneak to help Drifblim with its DPS potential. Ceruledge (Fire/Ghost) makes for a decent attacker, while Misdreavus (Ghost) can Trick Room the field to reverse Speed priority should the need arise.

4 Poison/Dark

Traditional Weakness Coverage Makes For Decent Defense

At its core, the Poison/Dark Dual Type capitalizes on sheer defensive strategy against more potent Pokémon Types. In fact, their synergy makes them resistant to more vicious Poison, Dark, and Ghost Types and at the same time giving them the edge against equally-powerful Psychic and Fairy Types.

Sadly, players still have to cover their bases with the leftover Ground Type weakness. If they're not careful, Earth Power and Earthquake can easily decimate a well-crafted defensive strategy. It also doesn't help that Ground Types are a more common appearance among types, meaning this Dual Type can more or less serve as a support unit.

Notable Poison/Dark Pokemon

• Alolan Muk (Alolan Grimer): Unlike conventional Grimer and its evolution Muk that are simply Poison Types, their Alolan variants are actually Poison/Dark. Thankfully, their naturally evolved states can potentially give them an edge in the meta. The Alolan Muk has equal parts HP and Attack, with Sp. Def following close behind. They then have decent Defense and Sp. Atk, followed by middling Speed.
• Skutank (Stunky): Despite taking inspiration from the skunk, Skutank and Stunky are both quite formidable Pokemon, even when it comes to their base stats. These include almost equal levels of HP, Attack, and Speed.
• Drapion: This ogre scorpion Pokemon is one of the most recognizable among the Poison/Dark Types, particularly for its evolution from the otherwise diminutive Skorupi. Stats-wise, Drapion boasts above average Defense and decent Attack, making it quite a decent attacker in most matches.

Notable Moves For Poison/Dark Pokemon

• Pursuit: This Dark-type Move will hit opponents at double the power once they try to switch out, allowing the likes of Skutank to become deadly to Pokemon weak against Dark-types
• Poison Jab: A Poison-type Move with 30% chance of inflicting Poison on the target, Poison Jab is an efficient ability for the Overqwil and fellow dual-Types to use against opponents
• Curses: This Ghost-type Move inflicts -1 Speed to a non-Ghost-type while giving users like Muk +1 to Attack and Defense. If this hits a Ghost-type, it inflicts Curse that reduces the user to 50% Max HP while the target loses 25% of Max HP at each turn this is active. While a Ghost-type Move, Poison/Dark Muk can use this Move against pesky Ghost-types that tend to slither way in combat

The Ideal Teammates

While the Poison/Dark Dual Typing does boast immunity against Psychic, the inherent weaknesses of the Poison Type against resistances against it as well as double damage from Ground Types means defense should be a player’s priority. Building a team around this consideration could include:

• Drapion, Galarian Weezing, Toxapex: Drapion (Poison/Dark) being a representative of this Dual Type already covers specialized Psychic attackers, but its Knock Off disabling Held Items and Swords Dance adding +2 Attack can drastically boost offense. Weezing (Poison) and its Ground-immune Levitate and Ability-disabling Neutralizing Gas Abilities can render many specialized kits useless as well. A Toxapex (Poison/Water) with Scald may add a bit of much-needed damage to the team.
• Skuntank, Venosaur, Crobat: As with Drapion, Skuntank (Poison/Dark) also boasts immunity to Psychic Moves. However, this sample setup shines in what support Pokemon could offer. Crobat (Poison/Flying) can double its Speed with Tailwind, which can add 50% damage to Fire Moves but reduce Water Move power by 50%. Since Venusaur (Grass/Poison) has Chlorophyll, this doubles its Speed as well. If Venusaur already has Solar Beam, Tailwind will remove its turn-based charging, making Venusaur a much deadlier attacker.

3 Steel/Bug

Fire Weakness Is Easily Solved, Paving Way For Powerful Defense

With the Steel/Bug Dual Type, any Pokémon can get one of the best defensive arsenals in the game. At its core, Poison Type immunity is a great deterrent against pesky poison attacks. Moreover, mixed resistance and advantages against the more potent Fairy, Dragon, Psychic, and Dark Types can easily make this type the bane of semi-OP builds.

However, players do need to watch out for the whopping 4x Weakness against Fire Types. This can pose a lot of trouble, considering some of the more essential attacks, such as Fire Blast and Flamethrower all exist within the more dominant Fire Type.

Notable Steel/Bug Pokemon

• Forretress: Despite its rather odd appearance, bagworm Pokemon Forretress is an admirable work of survivability. It boasts above average Defense and decent Attack, making it quite a good defender against most basic Pokemon.
• Scizor (Mega Evolution): If Scyther holds a Metal Coat when traded, it can evolve into Scizor. And if Scizor gets a Scizorite, it can Mega Evolve into Mega Scizor. This Pokemon remains quite a decent addition to any party, especially with its decent base Attack and Defense, which makes it a good contender against most basic Pokemon.
• Escavalier: This cavalry Pokemon resembles that of a lancer knight, and could only be acquired once a Karrablast is traded for a Shelmet. Stats-wise, Escavalier fits its association with knightly valor, as its above-average Attack and generally decent Defense and Special Defense make it a good Pokemon in any party.

Notable Moves For Steel/Bug Pokemon

• Bullet Punch: This Steel-type Move is quick enough to usually come first in battle, making this an essential ability in Scizor’s speed-oriented arsenal
• Pursuit: Despite being a Dark-type Move, Escavalier can benefit from this ability’s perk of attacking an opponent at double the power if they’re switching out
• U-Turn: This Bug-type Move allows the likes of Genesect to switch out immediately after hitting the target, making this effective for strategies where a Pokemon has to remain safe while still dishing out damage

The Ideal Teammates

While Steel/Bug Dual Typings can accommodate defensive builds due to its resistances, its massive weakness against Fire means these Pokemon will likely meet a player’s Steel/Bug Team at the onset. In order to adjust to such situations, players may want to prioritize firepower, speed, or building a solid Water defense. Considerations for team setups include:

• Scizor, Perrserker, Rillaboom: Courtesy of Close Combat and Bullet Punch, Scizor (Steel/Bug) can defeat Pokemon quickly especially when set up correctly with Perrserker (Steel) and its Steel Move-buffing Steely Spirit. Since enemies will likely want to take Scizor out of the picture, a good defense should protect it. This is where Rillaboom (Grass) comes in, as its Fake Out with priority and flinching can give Scizor a lot of room for flexibility.
• Scizor, Tornadus, Thundurus: An alternate setup with Scizor could focus on sheer mobility. Sample teammates to do this include Tornadus (Flying), whose Tailwind can double Scizor’s Speed, as well as utility Moves from Thundurus (Electric/Flying) such as Substitute for extra defenses, Knock Off that disables Held Items, and Volt Switch that is a poke-then-switch Move for enhanced combat maneuverability.

2 Steel/Fairy

The Most Practical Defensive Typing

In terms of sheer defense, the Steel/Fairy Dual Type is always something to rely on. Its natural immunity against Poison and Dragon Types can ruin an enemy's day, especially if they're using the Dragon Type metagame builds. Likewise, resistances against natural powerhouses such as Psychic, Fairy, and Dark can give an opponent a rough day.

Of course, players would need to stay wary of its inherent weaknesses towards Fire and Ground Types. It doesn't help that some staple competitive moves such as Flamethrower and Earthquake belong to these Types. However, with the right Pokémon pairing, a Steel/Fairy typing can provide enough punch to dominate a match.

Notable Steel/Fairy Pokemon

• Mawile (Mega Evolution): Despite its cute nature, one can’t deny that Mawile does have a gaping mouth with teeth at the back of its head. Stat-swise, Mawile boasts equal levels Attack and Defense, making for quite a balanced attack build. However, Mawile gets wild during its Mega Evolution, as its Attack, Defense, and Special Defense shoot up in values in this form.
• Klefki: This keyring Pokemon might look weird at first, especially with the keys it’s carrying. However, it does boast one of the best layouts of base stats for an ordinary Pokemon. At its core, its Attack, Defense, Special Defense, and Special Attack fall on extremely similar amounts. Not to mention, its Speed manages to keep up with the other stats as well, giving Klefki quite a decent build.
• Magearna: This Steel/Fairy Pokemon is a Mythical Pokemon for a reason, especially with its artificial nature. It even hides a special form under its armored exterior, which makes it all the more deadlier. Stats-wise, Magearna has high Special Attack, closely followed by Special Defense and Defense, making it a deadly foe for both ordinary and special Pokemon to face.

Notable Moves For Steel/Fairy Pokemon

• Play Rough: With this Fairy-type Move giving users like Mawile the chance to inflict -1 Attack on the target, this can help Mawile play more aggressively as opponents deal less damage
• Gigaton Hammer: This powerful Steel-type Move is the main damage-dealer of Pokemon such as Tinkaton, who can use this ability in tandem with Moves such as Stealth Rock, Knock Off, and Encore

The Ideal Teammates

The more unconventional Steel/Fairy Dual Typing encourages players to tinker with their defensive setups to secure protections against Fire and Ground Moves. In turn, players may want to consider setting up a heavy-hitter with other Pokemon that can either manipulate the flow of combat or dish out a lot of statuses. Sample teams include:

• Klefki, Corviknight, Excadrill, Heatran: A team centering on Klefki (Steel/Fairy) can guarantee paralysis via Thunderwave, while Corviknight (Steel/Flying) and his Tailwind can double the team’s Speed for faster-paced plays. Heatran (Fire/Steel) is always a must-have in Steel Teams for Fire neutrality, while Excadrill (Ground/Steel) can be setup for fierce attacks.
• Klefki, Landorus, Garchomp: Thanks to Klefki’s innate resistances to Fairy and Ice Moves, it can theoretically set up switches for beefier allies. Garchomp (Dragon/Ground) and Landorus (Ground/Flying) can accommodate more offensive plays, while Klefki potentially disables Moves via Imprison and reset turn flow via Trick Room.

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