Top 5 Water-Type Pokemon to Beat Dragonite Raids in Pokemon GO (2024)
Understanding the Matchup
Dragonite is weak to Dragon, Fairy, Ice, and Rock-type moves. While other types can work, this guide focuses specifically on Water-types due to their accessibility and overall utility in various Pokemon GO battles. Water-type attacks deal neutral damage to Dragonite, but the high stats and powerful movesets of top-tier Water Pokemon make them effective choices. We're also assuming a partly cloudy weather boost to Dragonite which increases the power of Dragonite's dragon type moves, meaning dragon type damage will be resisted by other Dragon types.
Tier List Criteria
This tier list considers the following factors:
- Attack Stat: Higher attack stat translates to more damage output.
- Move Set: The availability of powerful Water-type moves, ideally with STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus).
- Bulk: Survivability, which depends on HP, Defense, and Special Defense.
- Availability: How easy it is to obtain and power up the Pokemon.
Top 5 Water-Type Pokemon for Dragonite Raids
Here's a breakdown of the best Water-type Pokemon to use against Dragonite in Pokemon GO:
1. Kyogre (Primal)
Kyogre, especially its Primal form, reigns supreme as the ultimate Water-type attacker. Its colossal Attack stat and access to powerful Water-type moves like Waterfall and Origin Pulse make it an absolute Dragonite destroyer. It is simply the best choice overall.
- Fast Move: Waterfall
- Charged Move: Origin Pulse
2. Mega Swampert
Mega Swampert is an excellent option. As a Water/Ground-type it resist Electric type moves, has a high attack stat, and has access to Hydro Cannon. Mega Swampert is a top-tier mega evolution and is useful in water type teams in raids and for accumulating Mega energy.
- Fast Move: Mud Shot
- Charged Move: Hydro Cannon (Community Day Move)
3. Origin Forme Palkia
With the addition of the new move Spacial Rend, Palkia has jumped up into the top tier of water type attackers in the game. As a Water/Dragon-type it resists both Electric and Water type damage which makes it great as a raid attacker in partly cloudy weather with powerful dragon type attacks, or in rainy weather against dragonite.
- Fast Move: Waterfall
- Charged Move: Spacial Rend (Signature Move)
4. Kingler
Kingler, while not as bulky as other options, boasts a surprisingly high Attack stat. With Crabhammer as a charged move, Kingler can deal significant damage quickly. Crabhammer is a powerful water type move with great damage output.
- Fast Move: Bubble
- Charged Move: Crabhammer
5. Greninja
Greninja, with its high attack stat and access to Water Shuriken and Hydro Cannon, can be a great Water-type attacker. While it is very frail, it is easily accessible and is very effective, even in terms of DPS.
- Fast Move: Water Shuriken
- Charged Move: Hydro Cannon (Community Day Move)
Honorable Mentions
- Feraligatr: Another solid Water-type with good stats and moves.
- Gyarados: While primarily a Flying-type, its Water-type moveset can still be effective.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Water-type Pokemon is crucial for defeating Dragonite in Pokemon GO raids. By utilizing the Pokemon listed above with optimal movesets, you'll be well-equipped to conquer this powerful Dragon-type. Remember to power up your Pokemon and consider weather conditions for maximum effectiveness.
What are your favorite Water-type Pokemon to use in raids, and why?