There’s something about the initial trio of Pokemon types that makes me default into their most obvious counters. Water beats fire, fire beats grass, and grass beats water. Even when I’m nearly at the Elite Four, I usually end up tossing out my starter if it’s one of those counters. That’s true even if the type I’m on might already be good against that particular Pokemon. Maybe it’s because of some doubt in the back of my head or I’m just really bad at remembering type matchups.
While there’s always a quick and easy answer, we’ve prepared a whole guide for Water type Pokemon. Need to know their weaknesses and counters? Strengths and advantages? Best Pokemon to hunt for in Pokemon Legends: Arceus? Look no further. If you’re looking for a complete Pokemon type chart, we have that as well — just head to the link below!
More Pokemon:
- Pokemon Sword and Shield Type Chart – Pokemon Strengths and Weaknesses
- Pokemon Shining Pearl is a Small Magikarp in a Big Ocean
- Pokemon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl Can Sometimes Be Too Faithful a Remake
Pokemon Water Type Weaknesses & Counters
You know how I just said I always default into Grass type when dealing with Water Pokemon? Maybe there’s a reason for that. The only two move types that are super effective against Water Pokemon are Grass and Electric. That’s it!
When it comes to defense, Water moves struggle against other Water Pokemon, Grass types, and Dragon types.
With all of this taken into account, the best Pokemon to use against a Water type are either Grass or a combination of Water, Electric, or Grass. Hisuian Voltorb is a solid option considering it is both Grass and Electric.
Some great Pokemon that fit the bill are:
- Grass: Decidueye, Tangela, Roselia, Shaymin
- Electric: Raichu, Magneton, Jolteon, Luxray
Need a quick cheat sheet?
Water Is Super Effective Against | Fire, Ground, Rock |
Water Is Not Very Effective Against | Water, Grass, Dragon |
Water Takes Double Damage From | Electric, Grass |
Water Takes Half Damage From | Fire, Water, Ice, Steel |
Pokemon Water Type Advantages
On the offense side of things, Water Pokemon have very predictable strengths. They’re great against Fire, Ground, and Rock. The all-new Hisuian Growlithe, for example, is awful against Water types as it’s both Fire and Rock.
It’s a great idea to bust out a Water type against the following Pokemon:
- Fire: Hisuian Growlithe, Typhlosion, Ninetales, Magmar, Infernape
- Ground: Golem, Rhydon, Piloswine, etc.
- Rock: Onix
Just keep in mind that secondary types matter, too. Torterra, for example, is a Grass type that will take less damage from Water moves while having access to moves super effective against you. But it’s also a Ground type — as a result, that damage decrease does get offset somewhat. You’re still at a disadvantage, but it’s important to be aware of.
Not to mention you’ll take half damage from their Fire, Water, Ice, and Steel moves.
Best Water Type Pokemon in Arceus
Until we get our hands on Pokemon Legends: Arceus, there’s no real way to know who the strongest Pokemon are since much can change. For now, however, we’re comfortable saying the best Water Pokemon are likely those that are Legendary or of the highest evolution possible.
Those Pokemon would be:
- Gyarados
- Vaporeon
- Samurott
- Basculegion
- Golduck
- Tentacruel
- Empoleon
Again, this is just a list of the safest Pokemon to pursue as they’re either safe picks or have historically been good in past entries. We’ll update this list once the game has been released.
Have your own recommendations? Let your fellow trainers know in the comments below.