Everyone’s trying to beat level 3 and level 4 raids in Pokemon Go, but which Pokemon will be your best choice? We identified the best Pokemon per specific Raid Bosses and levels in Heavy’s story here. But if you’re looking for a general list of which Pokemon would be your best choice overall, this story will cover what trainers have figured out so far.
First, most trainers say that you really shouldn’t worry too much about Level 1 and Level 2 raids (the pink eggs) when it comes to choosing good Pokemon counters. Instead, focus your attention on defeating yellow egg raids.
Next, try to focus on using Pokemon who are the best counters for the greatest number of Raid Bosses. The following is a list of some Pokemon that are great at countering multiple Raid Bosses. This information comes from sources including trainers’ observations, a discussion by Level34Dewgong on Reddit here, and a PokeBattler chart here.
Dragonite – As Level34Dewgong explains, this Pokemon is a great counter for Gengar and Machamp, frequent Raid Bosses at the yellow egg level. Dragonite is also a strong attacker in general, so he makes a good choice, especially with Dragon Tail/Outrage or Dragon Tail/Hurricane.
Golem – On PokeBattler’s list, Golem appears the most frequently as a suggested Raid Boss counter. Mudslap/Earthquake would be the best move. Golem works especially well with Arcanine, Jolteon, and Flareon. As an interesting side note, Redditor CjoweD pointed out that Golem with double rock moves might be great against legendary birds, whenever they are introduced.
Machamp – This one ranks first or second among best overall Raid Boss counters. In PokeBattler’s list of top counters, Machamp is the second-highest recommended. Machamp’s rated as the number one counter against Lapras, Snorlax, Tyranitar, and Blissey. Statistically speaking, you’re more likely to have a great counter with Machamp than almost any other Pokemon. Top suggestion for moves: Counter/DP then Counter CC.
Rhydon – Rhydon is also the top or second-top choice for a Pokemon counter, tying Golem. PokeBattler places Rhydon above Golem, but Redditor Level34Dewgong suggests picking Golem above Rhydon. Both are strong against Arcanine, Jolteon, and Flareon. Rhydon’s best counters would be Mudslap/Earthquake.
Tyranitar – Using bite/crunch or bite/stone edge, Tyranitar is another top choice to counter Raid Bosses. It’s a great counter for Gengar or Alakazam. Some prefer Tyranitar over Golem or Rhydon as a Raid Boss counter.
Psychic Types (Alakazam or Espeon) – Other trainers, such as Redditor kaldare, believe that psychic types are good overall counters. They pair well against Machamp or Venusaur Raid Bosses, and are generally good at attacking.
With this “starter guide” in mind for Pokemon who make overall great counters in raids, what are your thoughts? Are these good counters or would you suggest something different? Let us know in the comments below. We may add some of your suggestions to later iterations of this story.
