Zapdos, the iconic Electric and Flying-type Legendary Pokémon, returns as a Tier 5 Raid Boss. With a Boss CP of 46,418, it demands strategic planning and strong counters to defeat. This guide provides essential tips and strategies to help trainers prepare for the Zapdos raid, ensuring success and maximizing rewards.
1.1 Understanding Zapdos’s Role and Importance
Zapdos, the legendary Electric and Flying-type Pokémon, holds a significant role in Pokémon GO as a powerful Tier 5 Raid Boss. Known as the “Lightning Bird,” Zapdos is one of the three Legendary Birds and is highly sought after for its exceptional Electric-type attacking capabilities. Its dual typing makes it both a formidable opponent and a valuable addition to any team. Zapdos’s importance lies in its versatility in both PvE and PvP formats, offering strong moves like Thunderbolt and Drill Peck. As a Raid Boss, Zapdos challenges trainers to assemble effective teams, leveraging its weaknesses to Rock and Ice types. Its presence in Raids also provides a rare opportunity to obtain its Candy and XL Candy, making it a key target for collectors and competitive players alike. Understanding Zapdos’s strengths and vulnerabilities is crucial for successfully tackling its Raids and maximizing its potential in gameplay.
1.2 Brief Overview of Zapdos’s Stats and Moveset
Zapdos, as a Tier 5 Raid Boss, boasts an impressive base stat composition with a CP of 46,418. Its dual Electric and Flying typing makes it a unique and powerful opponent. Zapdos’s high Attack stat, combined with its decent Defense and moderate Stamina, makes it a formidable force in Raids. Its moveset includes Thunder Shock and Thunderbolt as Fast Moves, with Thunderbolt being particularly potent despite being a Legacy move. Charge Moves like Drill Peck, Thunder, and Hurricane further enhance its versatility. Drill Peck is super effective against Flying types, while Thunder delivers massive damage but lacks accuracy. Hurricane provides coverage against various types, making Zapdos unpredictable. Understanding its stats and moveset is crucial for developing effective strategies to counter it in Raids. Trainers must be prepared for its high damage output and adapt their teams accordingly to secure a victory.
Best Counters for Zapdos Raid
Zapdos’s weaknesses to Rock and Ice types make these the best counters. Rock-type Pokémon like Golem and Tyranitar, and Ice-type Pokémon like Mamoswine and Weavile, are highly effective. These choices maximize damage output and can make the raid more manageable for trainers.
2.1 Top Rock-Type Counters
Rock-type Pokémon are highly effective against Zapdos due to its dual Electric and Flying typing. Golem and Tyranitar are top Rock-type counters, with moves like Rock Blast and Stone Edge dealing significant damage. Golem’s high defense makes it durable, while Tyranitar’s Dark-type moves add versatility. Other strong options include Rhyperior and Omanyte, whose powerful Rock-type attacks can quickly whittle down Zapdos’s HP. Using Rock-type Pokémon with high attack stats and appropriate moves ensures maximum efficiency in raids. Trainers should prioritize these counters to exploit Zapdos’s weaknesses effectively.
2.2 Top Ice-Type Counters
Zapdos’s dual Electric and Flying typing makes it highly vulnerable to Ice-type attacks, making them a cornerstone of any successful strategy. Mamoswine and Weavile are top-tier Ice-type counters, with Mamoswine’s high attack stat and access to moves like Ice Shard and Avalanche making it a standout choice. Weavile, with its quick moves and powerful Ice-type attacks, is another excellent option. Other notable Ice-type Pokémon include Froslass, Cloyster, and Glalie, which can deal significant damage with moves like Blizzard and Ice Beam. These Pokémon are particularly effective when paired with a Weather Boost, such as snowy conditions, which enhance their Ice-type moves. Trainers should prioritize these counters to exploit Zapdos’s weaknesses and ensure a successful raid. With the right team composition, Ice-type Pokémon can make quick work of Zapdos, especially in groups or with Mega Evolutions.
Catching Zapdos After the Raid
After defeating Zapdos, use Premier Balls wisely, as they are limited. Aim for a green circle when throwing to maximize catch chances. Use Golden Razz or Pinap Berries for higher success rates. Timing your throws perfectly and using curveballs can also improve your chances of catching this elusive Legendary Pokémon.
3.1 Catch Range and CP Values
Zapdos can be caught with CP values ranging from 1,930 to 2,015 at Level 20, and 2,413 to 2,519 at Level 25, depending on weather conditions. Windy or Rainy weather boosts its CP, making it tougher to catch but potentially more powerful. The catch range is determined by your throw accuracy and the Pokémon’s level. Aim for a green circle to maximize your chances, and consider using Golden Razz Berries or Pinap Berries to increase the likelihood of a successful catch. Timing your throws perfectly and using a curveball can also improve your success rate. Remember, you’ll have a limited number of Premier Balls, so make each throw count. With the right strategy and a bit of luck, you’ll be able to add this legendary Electric and Flying-type Pokémon to your collection.
3.2 Effective Strategies for Catching Zapdos
After defeating Zapdos in a raid, you’ll have a limited number of Premier Balls to catch it. To maximize your chances, use Golden Razz Berries or Pinap Berries to increase the catch rate. Weather conditions like Windy or Rainy can also boost your chances. Aim for the smallest possible green circle to land a critical catch. Timing your throw perfectly and using a curveball can significantly improve your success rate. Stay calm and focused, as missing throws can waste valuable opportunities. If Zapdos faints, it will disappear, so make every throw count. Additionally, using a strong throw or excellent curveball can help secure the catch. With patience and the right strategy, you’ll be able to add Zapdos to your collection and enjoy its power in future battles.
Advanced Tips and Tricks
Maximize your raid success by coordinating with your team and utilizing weather conditions. Mega Evolutions like Aerodactyl or Gyarados can significantly boost your party’s performance. Adjust your strategy based on Zapdos’s move patterns for optimal results.
4.1 Team Composition and Strategy
Assembling a well-rounded team is crucial for defeating Zapdos. Focus on Rock and Ice-type Pokémon, as they exploit its dual weaknesses. Tyranitar, Golem, and Ice Beam Gengar are top choices due to their high damage output. For Rock-types, Aerodactyl and Omanyte are excellent picks. Mega Evolutions like Mega Aerodactyl or Mega Gyarados can further enhance your team’s strength. Ensure your team has a balance of high attack power and sufficient bulk to withstand Zapdos’s powerful moves. Coordination with your raid group is key—assign roles to maximize damage output while maintaining team survivability. Using Premier Balls and berries strategically during the catch phase can also improve your chances of securing Zapdos after the battle.
4.2 Utilizing Weather Conditions
Weather conditions play a significant role in Zapdos raids, as they can boost certain types of moves or Pokémon. Windy and Cloudy weather are ideal, as they enhance Rock and Ice-type moves, which are super effective against Zapdos. Conversely, Rainy weather boosts Electric-type moves, making Zapdos’s attacks more potent. Sunny weather has minimal impact but slightly boosts Flying-type moves, which Zapdos already excels at. To maximize your advantage, coordinate with your team to use Rock or Ice-type Pokémon during favorable weather. Additionally, weather-boosted catches can increase Zapdos’s IV range, so use Pinap or Golden Razz Berries during windy or cloudy conditions for better catch rates. Leveraging weather conditions strategically can make the raid more manageable and improve your chances of success.