How to win battles in Pokémon Go PVP
Winning Pokémon GO PvP battles requires a combination of strategy, team composition, move efficiency, and mind games.
1. Master Type Matchups
Knowing type effectiveness is crucial (e.g., Water beats Fire, Fire beats Grass). Use a type chart or memorize common weaknesses.
2. Build a Balanced Team
Use a mix of Lead Pokémon, Safe Swap, and Closer.
Lead - A strong Pokémon that can apply early pressure.
Safe Swap - A Pokémon that can counter common threats when your lead is bad.
Closer - A Pokémon that performs well with no shields left.
Example Great League team:
Trevenant (Lead)
Lanturn (Safe Swap)
Galarian Stunfisk (Closer)
3. Charge Move Efficiency & Baiting
Fast Moves generate energy. Learn how many Fast Moves it takes before your Pokémon reaches its Charge Moves.
Shield Baiting: If you have a Charge Move that charges fast (e.g., Bubble Beam, Night Slash), use it to bait shields before using a strong move.
Energy Counting: Track opponent’s energy to predict when they will throw a Charged Move.
4. Shield Management
Don’t waste your shields early. Save them for key matchups or Pokémon with high damage Charge Moves. Bait out shields from your opponent strategically.
5. Learn When to Swap
Swapping at the right time can win battles!
Safe Swaps should be Pokémon that aren’t easily countered (e.g. Lanturn or Mandibuzz).
Catch Moves: Switching just before an opponent’s Charge Move lands on a resistant Pokémon.
6. Best Pokémon for Each League
Great League (1500 CP): Medicham, Galarian Stunfisk, Lanturn, Noctowl, Altaria.
Ultra League (2500 CP): Giratina (Altered), Swampert, Trevenant, Cresselia.
Master League (No CP Limit): Dialga, Mewtwo, Metagross, Lugia.
PvPoke.com is a great resource to simulate battles, find the best team comps, and analyze matchups.
8. Learn the Meta & Follow Skilled Trainers
The GBL meta changes with events and updates. Stay updated with the top Pokémon each season by learning from skilled trainers such as:
HomeSliceHenry and his second channel MoreSliceHenry
9. Charge Move Priority (CMP Tie)
If both Pokémon use a Charge Move at the same time, the one with higher Attack stat goes first. Use this to secure advantages.
10. Play Calm & Adapt
Don’t panic! If a match starts bad, adjust your strategy instead of quitting. Learn from your losses and try new team variations.
