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Team GO Rocket · Updated on October 13, 2026

Team GO Rocket counters.

Every grunt, Leader and Giovanni lineup running now, the Pokémon each one can send out, and the counters that beat them. Rocket battles use the same moves as trainer battles, so counters are ranked with PvP move stats. Lineups change on Team GO Rocket takeover days and this page checks for changes daily.

Megas start switched off. Mega-Evolved Pokémon are allowed in Rocket battles, so turn off No Megas to include them. Budget leaves out Legendary, Mythical, Ultra Beast, Shadow and Mega Pokémon.

Giovanni and the Leaders

“Catch” marks the Pokémon you can catch after a win, and “Shiny” means that catch can be shiny.

Giovanni

Team GO Rocket Boss
  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon
    • Zekrom DRAGONELECTRIC Catch Shiny

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow AnnihilapeLow KickClose Combat
  • Shadow DialgaDragon BreathDraco MeteorIron Head
  • MarshadowCounterClose Combat
  • AnnihilapeLow KickClose Combat
  • Shadow GroudonMud ShotSolar BeamPrecipice Blades*
  • Dialga (Origin)Dragon BreathDraco MeteorIron Head
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Persian Weak to Fighting Try Shadow Annihilape, Marshadow, Annihilape
  • Kangaskhan Weak to Fighting Try Shadow Annihilape, Marshadow, Annihilape
  • Rhyperior Weak to Water, Grass, Fighting, Ground, Steel, Ice Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Chesnaught, Kyogre
  • Machamp Weak to Flying, Psychic, Fairy Try Lunala, Necrozma (Dawn Wings), Galarian Articuno
  • Zekrom Weak to Ground, Ice, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Dialga, Shadow Groudon, Dialga (Origin)

Cliff

Team GO Rocket Leader
  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow KyogreWaterfallOrigin Pulse*
  • Shaymin (Sky)Magical LeafSolar Beam
  • KyogreWaterfallOrigin Pulse*
  • Shadow GyaradosWaterfallHydro Pump
  • Shadow Ho-OhIncinerateBrave BirdSolar Beam
  • Shadow GroudonMud ShotSolar BeamPrecipice Blades*
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Cubone Weak to Water, Grass, Ice Try Shaymin (Sky), Shadow Gyarados, Shadow Articuno
  • Snorlax Weak to Fighting Try Shadow Annihilape, Marshadow, Annihilape
  • Golurk Weak to Ghost, Water, Grass, Ice, Dark Try Shadow Kyogre, Yveltal, Kyurem (Black)
  • Galarian Weezing Weak to Ground, Steel, Psychic Try Shadow Metagross, Necrozma (Dusk Mane), Zacian (Crowned Sword)
  • Tyranitar Weak to Fighting, Ground, Bug, Steel, Water, Grass, Fairy Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Terrakion, Shadow Machamp
  • Camerupt Weak to Water, Ground Try Shadow Kyogre, Kyogre, Shadow Gyarados
  • Gallade Weak to Flying, Ghost, Fairy Try Necrozma (Dawn Wings), Shadow Lugia, Galarian Articuno

Arlo

Team GO Rocket Leader
  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow GroudonMud ShotSolar BeamPrecipice Blades*
  • Shadow Ho-OhIncinerateBrave BirdSacred Fire*
  • GroudonMud ShotSolar BeamPrecipice Blades*
  • Ho-OhIncinerateBrave BirdSacred Fire*
  • Shadow ReshiramDragon BreathOverheatStone Edge
  • Shadow KyogreWaterfallThunderOrigin Pulse*
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Alolan Grimer Weak to Ground Try Shadow Groudon, Groudon, Shadow Garchomp
  • Steelix Weak to Fighting, Ground, Fire, Water Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Ho-Oh, Shadow Moltres
  • Golurk Weak to Ghost, Water, Grass, Ice, Dark Try Shadow Kyogre, Yveltal, Kyurem (Black)
  • Slowbro Weak to Bug, Ghost, Grass, Electric, Dark Try Kartana, Shadow Zekrom, Zarude
  • Alakazam Weak to Bug, Ghost, Dark Try Hoopa (Unbound), Kingambit, Shadow Darkrai
  • Charizard Weak to Rock, Water, Electric Try Shadow Rhyperior, Shadow Gigalith, Shadow Tyranitar
  • Scizor Weak to Fire Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Shadow Heatran, Shadow Reshiram

Sierra

Team GO Rocket Leader
  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow Ho-OhIncinerateBrave BirdSacred Fire*
  • Ho-OhIncinerateBrave BirdSacred Fire*
  • Necrozma (Dawn Wings)Psycho CutFuture SightMoongeist Beam
  • LunalaConfusionShadow BallFuture Sight
  • Shadow MewtwoPsycho CutFocus BlastPsystrike*
  • Shadow LugiaDragon TailAeroblast*Earth Power
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Pancham Weak to Flying, Psychic, Fairy Try Lunala, Necrozma (Dawn Wings), Galarian Articuno
  • Blastoise Weak to Grass, Electric Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Palkia
  • Flygon Weak to Ice, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Mamoswine, Mamoswine, Kyurem (White)
  • Ferrothorn Weak to Fire, Fighting Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Shadow Heatran, Shadow Reshiram
  • Milotic Weak to Grass, Electric Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Palkia
  • Houndoom Weak to Fighting, Ground, Rock, Water Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Terrakion, Shadow Groudon
  • Steelix Weak to Fighting, Ground, Fire, Water Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Ho-Oh, Shadow Moltres

Grunts

Normal-type Male Grunt

Opens with “Normal does not mean weak.”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow AnnihilapeLow KickClose Combat
  • MarshadowCounterClose Combat
  • AnnihilapeLow KickClose Combat
  • GholdengoHexFocus BlastPower Gem
  • Shadow MagnezoneVolt SwitchWild Charge
  • Zacian (Crowned Sword)Metal ClawClose Combat
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Teddiursa Weak to Fighting Try Shadow Annihilape, Marshadow, Annihilape
  • Hoothoot Weak to Rock, Electric, Ice Try Shadow Magnezone, Shadow Alolan Golem, Shadow Aggron
  • Porygon Weak to Fighting Try Shadow Annihilape, Marshadow, Annihilape
  • Loudred Weak to Fighting Try Shadow Annihilape, Marshadow, Annihilape
  • Stufful Weak to Fighting, Flying, Psychic, Fairy Try Shadow Annihilape, Lunala, Marshadow
  • Starly Weak to Rock, Electric, Ice Try Shadow Magnezone, Shadow Alolan Golem, Shadow Aggron
  • Ursaring Weak to Fighting Try Shadow Annihilape, Marshadow, Annihilape
  • Swellow Weak to Rock, Electric, Ice Try Shadow Magnezone, Shadow Alolan Golem, Shadow Aggron
  • Kangaskhan Weak to Fighting Try Shadow Annihilape, Marshadow, Annihilape

Fire-type Female Grunt

Opens with “Do you know how hot Pokémon fire breath can get?”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow KyogreWaterfallOrigin Pulse*
  • KyogreWaterfallOrigin Pulse*
  • Shadow PalkiaDragon BreathHydro Pump
  • Shadow GroudonMud ShotPrecipice Blades*
  • Palkia (Origin)Dragon BreathHydro Pump
  • Shadow RhyperiorMud SlapEarthquakeRock Wrecker*
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Litwick Weak to Ground, Rock, Ghost, Water, Dark Try Shadow Groudon, Shadow Tyranitar, Shadow Kyogre
  • Ponyta Weak to Ground, Rock, Water Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Palkia, Palkia (Origin)
  • Torchic Weak to Ground, Rock, Water Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Palkia, Palkia (Origin)
  • Magmar Weak to Ground, Rock, Water Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Palkia, Palkia (Origin)
  • Blaziken Weak to Flying, Ground, Water, Psychic Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Rayquaza, Ho-Oh
  • Camerupt Weak to Water, Ground Try Shadow Kyogre, Kyogre, Shadow Gyarados
  • Darmanitan Weak to Ground, Rock, Water Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Palkia, Palkia (Origin)
  • Delphox Weak to Ground, Rock, Ghost, Water, Dark Try Shadow Groudon, Shadow Tyranitar, Shadow Kyogre
  • Magmortar Weak to Ground, Rock, Water Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Palkia, Palkia (Origin)

Water-type Female Grunt

Opens with “These waters are treacherous!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow ZekromDragon BreathOutrageWild Charge
  • Shadow RaikouVolt SwitchWild ChargeAura Sphere
  • ZekromDragon BreathOutrageWild Charge
  • Shadow MagnezoneVolt SwitchWild Charge
  • RaikouVolt SwitchWild ChargeAura Sphere
  • Kyurem (Black)Dragon TailFusion BoltFreeze Shock*
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Mudkip Weak to Grass, Electric Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Palkia
  • Tentacool Weak to Ground, Electric, Psychic Try Shadow Mewtwo, Shadow Zekrom, Shadow Raikou
  • Krabby Weak to Grass, Electric Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Palkia
  • Dewpider Weak to Flying, Rock, Electric Try Rayquaza, Shadow Dragonite, Shadow Zekrom
  • Swampert Weak to Grass Try Zarude, Shadow Chesnaught, Celebi
  • Sharpedo Weak to Fighting, Bug, Grass, Electric, Fairy Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Shadow Chesnaught, Urshifu (Rapid Strike)
  • Walrein Weak to Fighting, Rock, Grass, Electric Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Urshifu (Rapid Strike), Shadow Raikou
  • Greninja Weak to Fighting, Bug, Grass, Electric, Fairy Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Shadow Chesnaught, Urshifu (Rapid Strike)
  • Tentacruel Weak to Ground, Electric, Psychic Try Shadow Mewtwo, Shadow Zekrom, Shadow Raikou

Water-type Male Grunt

Opens with “These waters are treacherous!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow ZekromDragon BreathWild Charge
  • ZekromDragon BreathWild Charge
  • Shadow PalkiaDragon BreathDraco Meteor
  • Kyurem (Black)Dragon TailFusion Bolt
  • Shadow Alolan ExeggutorBullet SeedSolar BeamDraco Meteor*
  • Shadow RaikouVolt SwitchWild Charge
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Magikarp Weak to Grass, Electric Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Palkia
  • Feebas Weak to Grass, Electric Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Palkia
  • Gyarados Weak to Electric, Rock Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Raikou

Electric-type Female Grunt

Opens with “Get ready to be shocked!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow GroudonMud ShotFire BlastPrecipice Blades*
  • Shadow GarchompMud ShotEarthquakeFire Blast
  • GroudonMud ShotFire BlastPrecipice Blades*
  • GarchompMud ShotEarthquakeFire Blast
  • Shadow RhyperiorMud SlapEarthquakeRock Wrecker*
  • Zygarde (Complete Forme)Dragon TailEarthquake
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Voltorb Weak to Ground Try Shadow Garchomp, Shadow Groudon, Garchomp
  • Shinx Weak to Ground Try Shadow Garchomp, Shadow Groudon, Garchomp
  • Helioptile Weak to Fighting, Ground Try Shadow Rhyperior, Shadow Groudon, Shadow Golurk
  • Electabuzz Weak to Ground Try Shadow Garchomp, Shadow Groudon, Garchomp
  • Magnemite Weak to Ground, Fighting, Fire Try Shadow Groudon, Groudon, Shadow Excadrill
  • Alolan Geodude Weak to Ground, Fighting, Water, Grass Try Shadow Groudon, Groudon, Shadow Excadrill
  • Luxray Weak to Ground Try Shadow Garchomp, Shadow Groudon, Garchomp
  • Ampharos Weak to Ground Try Shadow Garchomp, Shadow Groudon, Garchomp
  • Galvantula Weak to Rock, Fire Try Shadow Reshiram, Reshiram, Shadow Chandelure

Grass-type Male Grunt

Opens with “Don’t tangle with us!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow Ho-OhIncinerateBrave Bird
  • Ho-OhIncinerateBrave Bird
  • Shadow ReshiramDragon BreathOverheat
  • Shadow MoltresWing AttackOverheatFly
  • RayquazaDragon TailDragon Ascent*
  • ReshiramDragon BreathOverheat
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Phantump Weak to Flying, Ghost, Fire, Ice, Dark Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Ho-Oh, Shadow Reshiram
  • Fomantis Weak to Flying, Poison, Bug, Fire, Ice Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Ho-Oh, Shadow Reshiram
  • Tangela Weak to Flying, Poison, Bug, Fire, Ice Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Ho-Oh, Shadow Reshiram
  • Lileep Weak to Fighting, Bug, Steel, Ice Try Shadow Metagross, Zacian (Crowned Sword), Necrozma (Dusk Mane)
  • Sceptile Weak to Flying, Poison, Bug, Fire, Ice Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Ho-Oh, Shadow Reshiram
  • Morelull Weak to Poison, Flying, Steel, Fire, Ice Try Revavroom, Shadow Ho-Oh, Ho-Oh
  • Chesnaught Weak to Flying, Poison, Fire, Psychic, Ice, Fairy Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Ho-Oh, Galarian Articuno
  • Trevenant Weak to Flying, Ghost, Fire, Ice, Dark Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Ho-Oh, Shadow Reshiram
  • Cradily Weak to Fighting, Bug, Steel, Ice Try Shadow Metagross, Zacian (Crowned Sword), Necrozma (Dusk Mane)

Ice-type Female Grunt

Opens with “You’re gonna be frozen in your tracks.”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Zacian (Crowned Sword)Metal ClawClose CombatBehemoth Blade*
  • Shadow MetagrossBullet PunchEarthquakeMeteor Mash*
  • VolcanionIncinerateHydro PumpOverheat
  • Necrozma (Dusk Mane)Psycho CutFuture SightSunsteel Strike
  • Shadow ReshiramDragon BreathOverheatDraco Meteor
  • MetagrossBullet PunchEarthquakeMeteor Mash*
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Seel Weak to Grass, Electric Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Palkia
  • Delibird Weak to Rock, Steel, Fire, Electric Try Shadow Aggron, Shadow Heatran, Shadow Metagross
  • Spheal Weak to Fighting, Rock, Grass, Electric Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Urshifu (Rapid Strike), Shadow Raikou
  • Sealeo Weak to Fighting, Rock, Grass, Electric Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Urshifu (Rapid Strike), Shadow Raikou
  • Froslass Weak to Rock, Ghost, Steel, Fire, Dark Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Shadow Reshiram, Volcanion
  • Alolan Ninetales Weak to Steel, Poison, Rock, Fire Try Shadow Metagross, Zacian (Crowned Sword), Metagross
  • Aurorus Weak to Fighting, Steel, Ground, Rock, Water, Grass Try Shadow Metagross, Zacian (Crowned Sword), Keldeo (Ordinary)
  • Glalie Weak to Fighting, Rock, Steel, Fire Try Volcanion, Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure

Fighting-type Female Grunt

Opens with “This buff physique isn’t just for show!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • LunalaConfusionShadow BallFuture Sight
  • Necrozma (Dawn Wings)Psycho CutFuture SightMoongeist Beam
  • Galarian ArticunoPsycho CutBrave Bird
  • Shadow Ho-OhIncinerateBrave Bird
  • Shadow LugiaDragon TailAeroblast*
  • Shadow MewtwoConfusionPsystrike*
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Timburr Weak to Flying, Psychic, Fairy Try Lunala, Necrozma (Dawn Wings), Galarian Articuno
  • Mankey Weak to Flying, Psychic, Fairy Try Lunala, Necrozma (Dawn Wings), Galarian Articuno
  • Makuhita Weak to Flying, Psychic, Fairy Try Lunala, Necrozma (Dawn Wings), Galarian Articuno
  • Hitmontop Weak to Flying, Psychic, Fairy Try Lunala, Necrozma (Dawn Wings), Galarian Articuno
  • Hitmonlee Weak to Flying, Psychic, Fairy Try Lunala, Necrozma (Dawn Wings), Galarian Articuno
  • Hitmonchan Weak to Flying, Psychic, Fairy Try Lunala, Necrozma (Dawn Wings), Galarian Articuno
  • Conkeldurr Weak to Flying, Psychic, Fairy Try Lunala, Necrozma (Dawn Wings), Galarian Articuno
  • Annihilape Weak to Flying, Ghost, Psychic, Fairy Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Ho-Oh, Rayquaza
  • Infernape Weak to Flying, Ground, Water, Psychic Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Rayquaza, Ho-Oh

Poison-type Female Grunt

Opens with “Coiled and ready to strike!”

  1. First Pokémon
    • Oddish GRASSPOISON Catch Shiny
    • Zubat POISONFLYING Catch Shiny
    • Qwilfish WATERPOISON Catch Shiny
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Necrozma (Dusk Mane)Psycho CutFuture SightSunsteel Strike
  • Shadow MewtwoConfusionPsystrike*
  • MewtwoConfusionPsystrike*
  • LunalaConfusionFuture Sight
  • Shadow DialgaDragon BreathDraco MeteorIron Head
  • Shadow GroudonMud ShotFire BlastPrecipice Blades*
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Oddish Weak to Flying, Fire, Psychic, Ice Try Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure, Blacephalon
  • Zubat Weak to Rock, Electric, Psychic, Ice Try Shadow Magnezone, Magnezone, Shadow Alolan Golem
  • Qwilfish Weak to Ground, Electric, Psychic Try Shadow Mewtwo, Shadow Zekrom, Shadow Raikou
  • Galarian Weezing Weak to Ground, Steel, Psychic Try Shadow Metagross, Necrozma (Dusk Mane), Zacian (Crowned Sword)
  • Nidorino Weak to Ground, Psychic Try Shadow Excadrill, Excadrill, Shadow Rhyperior
  • Nidorina Weak to Ground, Psychic Try Shadow Excadrill, Excadrill, Shadow Rhyperior
  • Weezing Weak to Ground, Psychic Try Shadow Excadrill, Excadrill, Shadow Rhyperior
  • Toxicroak Weak to Psychic, Flying, Ground Try Lunala, Shadow Mewtwo, Necrozma (Dawn Wings)
  • Amoonguss Weak to Flying, Fire, Psychic, Ice Try Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure, Blacephalon

Ground-type Male Grunt

Opens with “You’ll be defeated into the ground!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
    • Gligar GROUNDFLYING Catch Shiny
    • Claydol GROUNDPSYCHIC Catch Shiny
    • Vibrava GROUNDDRAGON Catch Shiny
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Kyurem (White)Ice FangIce Burn*
  • Shadow KyogreWaterfallOrigin Pulse*Avalanche
  • Kyurem (Black)Dragon TailFreeze Shock*
  • Shadow MamoswinePowder SnowAvalanche
  • KyogreWaterfallOrigin Pulse*Avalanche
  • Shadow ArticunoPowder SnowBlizzard
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Rhyhorn Weak to Water, Grass, Fighting, Ground, Steel, Ice Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Chesnaught, Kyogre
  • Gligar Weak to Ice, Water Try Kyurem (White), Kyurem (Black), Shadow Mamoswine
  • Trapinch Weak to Water, Grass, Ice Try Shaymin (Sky), Shadow Gyarados, Shadow Articuno
  • Claydol Weak to Bug, Ghost, Water, Grass, Ice, Dark Try Yveltal, Galarian Moltres, Shadow Kyogre
  • Vibrava Weak to Ice, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Mamoswine, Mamoswine, Kyurem (White)
  • Golurk Weak to Ghost, Water, Grass, Ice, Dark Try Shadow Kyogre, Yveltal, Kyurem (Black)
  • Hippowdon Weak to Water, Grass, Ice Try Shaymin (Sky), Shadow Gyarados, Shadow Articuno
  • Flygon Weak to Ice, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Mamoswine, Mamoswine, Kyurem (White)

Flying-type Female Grunt

Opens with “Battle against my Flying-type Pokémon!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
    • Scyther BUGFLYING Catch Shiny
    • Zubat POISONFLYING Catch Shiny
    • Gligar GROUNDFLYING Catch Shiny
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow MagnezoneVolt SwitchFlash CannonWild Charge
  • MagnezoneVolt SwitchFlash CannonWild Charge
  • Kyurem (Black)Dragon TailFusion BoltFreeze Shock*
  • Kyurem (White)Ice FangIce Burn*
  • Shadow ZekromDragon BreathOutrageWild Charge
  • Shadow Alolan GolemVolt SwitchStone EdgeWild Charge
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Taillow Weak to Rock, Electric, Ice Try Shadow Magnezone, Shadow Alolan Golem, Shadow Aggron
  • Rookidee Weak to Rock, Electric, Ice Try Shadow Magnezone, Shadow Alolan Golem, Magnezone
  • Swablu Weak to Rock, Electric, Ice Try Shadow Magnezone, Shadow Alolan Golem, Shadow Aggron
  • Scyther Weak to Rock, Flying, Fire, Electric, Ice Try Nihilego, Shadow Rhyperior, Shadow Heatran
  • Zubat Weak to Rock, Electric, Psychic, Ice Try Shadow Magnezone, Magnezone, Shadow Alolan Golem
  • Gligar Weak to Ice, Water Try Kyurem (White), Kyurem (Black), Shadow Mamoswine
  • Dragonite Weak to Ice, Rock, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Mamoswine, Mamoswine, Kyurem (White)
  • Toucannon Weak to Rock, Electric, Ice Try Shadow Magnezone, Shadow Alolan Golem, Shadow Aggron
  • Swanna Weak to Electric, Rock Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Raikou

Psychic-type Male Grunt

Opens with “Are you scared of psychics that use unseen power?”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Hoopa (Unbound)AstonishShadow BallDark Pulse
  • KingambitSnarlDark PulseX-Scissor
  • Shadow DarkraiSucker PunchDark PulseShadow Ball
  • Necrozma (Dawn Wings)Shadow ClawMoongeist Beam
  • YveltalSucker PunchDark PulseHurricane
  • DarkraiSucker PunchDark PulseShadow Ball
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Wobbuffet Weak to Bug, Ghost, Dark Try Hoopa (Unbound), Kingambit, Shadow Darkrai
  • Ralts Weak to Poison, Ghost, Steel Try Shadow Metagross, Necrozma (Dusk Mane), Zacian (Crowned Sword)
  • Drowzee Weak to Bug, Ghost, Dark Try Hoopa (Unbound), Kingambit, Shadow Darkrai
  • Duosion Weak to Bug, Ghost, Dark Try Hoopa (Unbound), Kingambit, Shadow Darkrai
  • Gallade Weak to Flying, Ghost, Fairy Try Necrozma (Dawn Wings), Shadow Lugia, Galarian Articuno
  • Malamar Weak to Bug, Fairy Try Xerneas, Shadow Golisopod, Volcarona
  • Reuniclus Weak to Bug, Ghost, Dark Try Hoopa (Unbound), Kingambit, Shadow Darkrai

Bug-type Male Grunt

Opens with “Go, my super bug Pokémon!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow Ho-OhIncinerateBrave BirdSacred Fire*
  • Shadow ChandelureIncinerateOverheat
  • Shadow HeatranFire SpinFire BlastStone Edge
  • BlacephalonIncinerateMind Blown*
  • Shadow ReshiramDragon BreathOverheatStone Edge
  • Ho-OhIncinerateBrave BirdSacred Fire*
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Venonat Weak to Flying, Rock, Fire, Psychic Try Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure, Blacephalon
  • Weedle Weak to Flying, Rock, Fire, Psychic Try Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure, Blacephalon
  • Wimpod Weak to Flying, Rock, Electric Try Rayquaza, Shadow Dragonite, Shadow Zekrom
  • Pinsir Weak to Flying, Rock, Fire Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Ho-Oh, Shadow Chandelure
  • Anorith Weak to Rock, Steel, Water Try Zamazenta (Crowned Shield), Zacian (Crowned Sword), Shadow Kyogre
  • Dewpider Weak to Flying, Rock, Electric Try Rayquaza, Shadow Dragonite, Shadow Zekrom
  • Scizor Weak to Fire Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Shadow Heatran, Shadow Reshiram
  • Scolipede Weak to Flying, Rock, Fire, Psychic Try Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure, Blacephalon
  • Vikavolt Weak to Rock, Fire Try Shadow Reshiram, Reshiram, Shadow Chandelure

Rock-type Male Grunt

Opens with “Let’s rock and roll!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Keldeo (Ordinary)Low KickAqua JetClose Combat
  • Shadow GroudonMud ShotSolar BeamPrecipice Blades*
  • Shadow ChesnaughtVine WhipSuperpowerFrenzy Plant*
  • Zamazenta (Crowned Shield)Metal ClawClose Combat
  • Shadow KyogreWaterfallOrigin Pulse*Avalanche
  • Shadow MetagrossBullet PunchEarthquakeMeteor Mash*
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Onix Weak to Water, Grass, Fighting, Ground, Steel, Ice Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Chesnaught, Kyogre
  • Kabuto Weak to Grass, Fighting, Ground, Electric Try Shadow Chesnaught, Chesnaught, Kartana
  • Cranidos Weak to Fighting, Ground, Steel, Water, Grass Try Zamazenta (Crowned Shield), Shadow Groudon, Shadow Metagross
  • Shieldon Weak to Fighting, Ground, Water Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Shadow Groudon, Urshifu (Rapid Strike)
  • Graveler Weak to Water, Grass, Fighting, Ground, Steel, Ice Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Chesnaught, Kyogre
  • Tyrantrum Weak to Fighting, Ground, Steel, Ice, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Metagross, Zacian (Crowned Sword), Necrozma (Dusk Mane)
  • Golem Weak to Water, Grass, Fighting, Ground, Steel, Ice Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Chesnaught, Kyogre
  • Aurorus Weak to Fighting, Steel, Ground, Rock, Water, Grass Try Shadow Metagross, Zacian (Crowned Sword), Keldeo (Ordinary)

Ghost-type Male Grunt

Opens with “Ke...ke...ke...ke...ke...ke!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow DarkraiSucker PunchDark Pulse
  • YveltalSucker PunchDark PulseHurricane
  • DarkraiSucker PunchDark Pulse
  • Urshifu (Single Strike)Sucker PunchPayback
  • Shadow TyranitarBiteStone EdgeBrutal Swing
  • Shadow HydreigonBiteDark Pulse
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Duskull Weak to Ghost, Dark Try Shadow Darkrai, Yveltal, Darkrai
  • Sandygast Weak to Ghost, Water, Grass, Ice, Dark Try Shadow Kyogre, Yveltal, Kyurem (Black)
  • Yamask Weak to Ghost, Dark Try Shadow Darkrai, Yveltal, Darkrai
  • Dusclops Weak to Ghost, Dark Try Shadow Darkrai, Yveltal, Darkrai
  • Sableye Weak to Fairy Try Xerneas, Shadow Ho-Oh, Shadow Reshiram
  • Cofagrigus Weak to Ghost, Dark Try Shadow Darkrai, Yveltal, Darkrai
  • Gengar Weak to Ground, Ghost, Psychic, Dark Try Shadow Groudon, Groudon, Shadow Tyranitar
  • Froslass Weak to Rock, Ghost, Steel, Fire, Dark Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Shadow Reshiram, Volcanion

Dragon-type Female Grunt

Opens with “ROAR! ...How’d that sound?”

  1. First Pokémon
    • Noibat FLYINGDRAGON Catch Shiny
    • Deino DARKDRAGON Catch Shiny
    • Axew DRAGON Catch Shiny
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow MamoswinePowder SnowAvalanche
  • Kyurem (Black)Dragon TailFreeze Shock*
  • Kyurem (White)Dragon BreathIce Burn*
  • MamoswinePowder SnowAvalanche
  • Shadow DialgaDragon BreathDraco Meteor
  • Shadow ArticunoPowder SnowBlizzard
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Noibat Weak to Ice, Rock, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Mamoswine, Mamoswine, Kyurem (White)
  • Deino Weak to Fairy, Fighting, Bug, Ice, Dragon Try Xerneas, Enamorus (Therian), Florges
  • Axew Weak to Ice, Dragon, Fairy Try Zacian (Crowned Sword), Xerneas, Enamorus (Therian)
  • Alolan Exeggutor Weak to Ice, Flying, Poison, Bug, Dragon, Fairy Try Genesect (Chill), Kyurem (White), Kyurem (Black)
  • Dragonair Weak to Ice, Dragon, Fairy Try Zacian (Crowned Sword), Xerneas, Enamorus (Therian)
  • Gabite Weak to Ice, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Mamoswine, Mamoswine, Kyurem (White)
  • Dragonite Weak to Ice, Rock, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Mamoswine, Mamoswine, Kyurem (White)
  • Garchomp Weak to Ice, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Mamoswine, Mamoswine, Kyurem (White)
  • Salamence Weak to Ice, Rock, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Mamoswine, Mamoswine, Kyurem (White)

Dark-type Female Grunt

Opens with “Wherever there is light, there is also shadow.”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Keldeo (Ordinary)Low KickClose Combat
  • Shadow PangoroKarate ChopClose Combat
  • TerrakionDouble KickClose Combat
  • XerneasGeomancy*MoonblastClose Combat
  • Urshifu (Single Strike)CounterClose Combat
  • Zacian (Crowned Sword)Metal ClawPlay RoughClose Combat
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Carvanha Weak to Fighting, Bug, Grass, Electric, Fairy Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Shadow Chesnaught, Urshifu (Rapid Strike)
  • Poochyena Weak to Fighting, Bug, Fairy Try Shadow Pangoro, Urshifu (Single Strike), Pangoro
  • Alolan Rattata Weak to Fighting, Bug, Fairy Try Terrakion, Zacian (Crowned Sword), Zamazenta (Crowned Shield)
  • Sneasel Weak to Fighting, Rock, Bug, Steel, Fire, Fairy Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Zacian (Crowned Sword), Zamazenta (Crowned Shield)
  • Houndour Weak to Fighting, Ground, Rock, Water Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Terrakion, Shadow Groudon
  • Absol Weak to Fighting, Bug, Fairy Try Shadow Pangoro, Urshifu (Single Strike), Pangoro
  • Liepard Weak to Fighting, Bug, Fairy Try Shadow Pangoro, Urshifu (Single Strike), Pangoro
  • Hydreigon Weak to Fairy, Fighting, Bug, Ice, Dragon Try Xerneas, Enamorus (Therian), Florges

Steel-type Male Grunt

Opens with “You’re no match for my iron will!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow GroudonMud ShotFire BlastPrecipice Blades*
  • Keldeo (Ordinary)Low KickClose Combat
  • VolcanionIncinerateOverheatEarth Power
  • GroudonMud ShotFire BlastPrecipice Blades*
  • Shadow HeatranFire SpinFire BlastEarth Power
  • Shadow ExcadrillMud SlapRock SlideEarthquake
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Alolan Sandshrew Weak to Fighting, Fire, Ground Try Volcanion, Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure
  • Aron Weak to Fighting, Ground, Water Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Shadow Groudon, Urshifu (Rapid Strike)
  • Beldum Weak to Ground, Ghost, Fire, Dark Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Shadow Groudon, Shadow Heatran
  • Lairon Weak to Fighting, Ground, Water Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Shadow Groudon, Urshifu (Rapid Strike)
  • Skarmory Weak to Fire, Electric Try Shadow Magnezone, Magnezone, Shadow Raikou
  • Metang Weak to Ground, Ghost, Fire, Dark Try Shadow Ho-Oh, Shadow Groudon, Shadow Heatran
  • Aggron Weak to Fighting, Ground, Water Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Shadow Groudon, Urshifu (Rapid Strike)
  • Alolan Sandslash Weak to Fighting, Fire, Ground Try Volcanion, Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure
  • Probopass Weak to Fighting, Ground, Water Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Shadow Groudon, Urshifu (Rapid Strike)

Fairy-type Female Grunt

Opens with “Check out my cute Pokémon!”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow MetagrossBullet PunchMeteor Mash*
  • Zacian (Crowned Sword)Metal ClawClose CombatBehemoth Blade*
  • Necrozma (Dusk Mane)Psycho CutSunsteel Strike
  • MetagrossBullet PunchMeteor Mash*
  • Shadow HeatranFire SpinFire BlastIron Head
  • HeatranFire SpinFire BlastIron Head
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Ralts Weak to Poison, Ghost, Steel Try Shadow Metagross, Necrozma (Dusk Mane), Zacian (Crowned Sword)
  • Snubbull Weak to Poison, Steel Try Shadow Metagross, Zacian (Crowned Sword), Necrozma (Dusk Mane)
  • Alolan Vulpix Weak to Fighting, Rock, Steel, Fire Try Volcanion, Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure
  • Galarian Weezing Weak to Ground, Steel, Psychic Try Shadow Metagross, Necrozma (Dusk Mane), Zacian (Crowned Sword)
  • Kirlia Weak to Poison, Ghost, Steel Try Shadow Metagross, Necrozma (Dusk Mane), Zacian (Crowned Sword)
  • Alolan Ninetales Weak to Steel, Poison, Rock, Fire Try Shadow Metagross, Zacian (Crowned Sword), Metagross
  • Granbull Weak to Poison, Steel Try Shadow Metagross, Zacian (Crowned Sword), Necrozma (Dusk Mane)

Male Grunt

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow PalkiaDragon BreathDraco MeteorHydro Pump
  • Shadow ZekromDragon BreathOutrageWild Charge
  • Palkia (Origin)Dragon BreathDraco MeteorHydro Pump
  • Shadow ReshiramDragon BreathOverheatDraco Meteor
  • Shadow DialgaDragon BreathDraco Meteor
  • PalkiaDragon BreathDraco MeteorHydro Pump
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Bulbasaur Weak to Flying, Fire, Psychic, Ice Try Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure, Blacephalon
  • Charmander Weak to Ground, Rock, Water Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Palkia, Palkia (Origin)
  • Squirtle Weak to Grass, Electric Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Palkia
  • Ivysaur Weak to Flying, Fire, Psychic, Ice Try Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure, Blacephalon
  • Charmeleon Weak to Ground, Rock, Water Try Shadow Kyogre, Shadow Palkia, Palkia (Origin)
  • Wartortle Weak to Grass, Electric Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Palkia
  • Venusaur Weak to Flying, Fire, Psychic, Ice Try Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure, Blacephalon
  • Charizard Weak to Rock, Water, Electric Try Shadow Rhyperior, Shadow Gigalith, Shadow Tyranitar
  • Blastoise Weak to Grass, Electric Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Palkia

Female Grunt

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow AnnihilapeLow KickClose CombatShadow Ball
  • MarshadowCounterClose CombatIce Punch
  • Zacian (Crowned Sword)Metal ClawClose CombatBehemoth Blade*
  • AnnihilapeLow KickClose CombatShadow Ball
  • GholdengoHexShadow BallFocus Blast
  • Shadow RaikouVolt SwitchWild ChargeAura Sphere
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Snorlax Weak to Fighting Try Shadow Annihilape, Marshadow, Annihilape
  • Lapras Weak to Fighting, Rock, Grass, Electric Try Keldeo (Ordinary), Urshifu (Rapid Strike), Shadow Raikou
  • Poliwrath Weak to Flying, Grass, Electric, Psychic, Fairy Try Rayquaza, Shadow Latios, Celebi
  • Gardevoir Weak to Poison, Ghost, Steel Try Shadow Metagross, Necrozma (Dusk Mane), Zacian (Crowned Sword)
  • Gyarados Weak to Electric, Rock Try Shadow Zekrom, Zekrom, Shadow Raikou
  • Dragonite Weak to Ice, Rock, Dragon, Fairy Try Shadow Mamoswine, Mamoswine, Kyurem (White)

Decoy Female Grunt

Opens with “Fooled ya, twerp.”

  1. First Pokémon
  2. Second Pokémon
  3. Third Pokémon

Best counters for this lineup

  • Shadow ChandelureIncinerateOverheat
  • BlacephalonIncinerateMind Blown*
  • ChandelureIncinerateOverheat
  • Shadow HeatranFire SpinFire Blast
  • Shadow DialgaDragon BreathDraco Meteor
  • Shadow AnnihilapeLow KickClose CombatIce Punch
Counters for each Pokémon
  • Bellsprout Weak to Flying, Fire, Psychic, Ice Try Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure, Blacephalon
  • Raticate Weak to Fighting Try Shadow Annihilape, Marshadow, Annihilape
  • Weepinbell Weak to Flying, Fire, Psychic, Ice Try Shadow Heatran, Shadow Chandelure, Blacephalon
  • Snorlax Weak to Fighting Try Shadow Annihilape, Marshadow, Annihilape

How counters are ranked.

Team GO Rocket battles run on the trainer battle system, so every counter is scored with its PvP moves and stats.

Against each Pokémon a lineup can send out, every counter gets its best fast move and charged move for that matchup: the fast move's damage per turn plus the charged move damage its energy pays for. Same-type moves get the 1.2× bonus, and GO's type multipliers apply (1.6× super effective, 0.625× resisted, 0.390625× double resisted). That damage is multiplied by the counter's Attack, then weighed against how long it lasts: Defense × HP, divided by how hard that Pokémon's own types hit it. Damage counts twice and staying power once, so the best counters hit hard and survive.

For a whole lineup, each of the three slots counts equally, split across the Pokémon that slot can be. A counter keeps one fast move and up to two charged moves across the whole lineup, the way it would in a real battle. All counters are compared at the same level with perfect IVs; Shadow Pokémon get their 1.2× Attack and lower Defense. Each counter's fast move is listed first, in bold, then its charged moves; a colored bar shows each move's type. Moves marked * need an Elite TM or came from an event.

Common questions.

Can you use Mega-Evolved Pokémon against Team GO Rocket?

Yes. Mega-Evolved Pokémon can battle Team GO Rocket grunts, Leaders and Giovanni. This page starts with Megas switched off; turn off No Megas to see them.

How can you tell which type a Team GO Rocket grunt uses?

By the line they open with: “Normal does not mean weak.” means Normal; “Do you know how hot Pokémon fire breath can get?” means Fire; “These waters are treacherous!” means Water; “Get ready to be shocked!” means Electric; “Don’t tangle with us!” means Grass; “You’re gonna be frozen in your tracks.” means Ice; “This buff physique isn’t just for show!” means Fighting; “Coiled and ready to strike!” means Poison; “You’ll be defeated into the ground!” means Ground; “Battle against my Flying-type Pokémon!” means Flying; “Are you scared of psychics that use unseen power?” means Psychic; “Go, my super bug Pokémon!” means Bug; “Let’s rock and roll!” means Rock; “Ke...ke...ke...ke...ke...ke!” means Ghost; “ROAR! ...How’d that sound?” means Dragon; “Wherever there is light, there is also shadow.” means Dark; “You’re no match for my iron will!” means Steel; “Check out my cute Pokémon!” means Fairy.

What are the best budget counters for each Team GO Rocket grunt?

With no Legendary, Mythical, Ultra Beast, Shadow or Mega Pokémon: Normal-type Male Grunt: Annihilape, Gholdengo, Magnezone. Fire-type Female Grunt: Rhyperior, Garchomp, Gyarados. Water-type Female Grunt: Magnezone, Electivire, Kommo-o. Water-type Male Grunt: Alolan Exeggutor, Roserade, Magnezone. Electric-type Female Grunt: Garchomp, Rhyperior, Excadrill. Grass-type Male Grunt: Volcarona, Chandelure, Darmanitan. Ice-type Female Grunt: Metagross, Magnezone, Kingambit. Fighting-type Female Grunt: Togekiss, Dragonite, Gardevoir. Poison-type Female Grunt: Excadrill, Metagross, Garchomp. Ground-type Male Grunt: Mamoswine, Cetitan, Baxcalibur. Flying-type Female Grunt: Magnezone, Hisuian Avalugg, Alolan Golem. Psychic-type Male Grunt: Kingambit, Metagross, Gholdengo. Bug-type Male Grunt: Chandelure, Skeledirge, Hisuian Typhlosion. Rock-type Male Grunt: Chesnaught, Quaquaval, Metagross. Ghost-type Male Grunt: Kingambit, Tyranitar, Hydreigon. Dragon-type Female Grunt: Mamoswine, Cetitan, Hisuian Avalugg. Dark-type Female Grunt: Pangoro, Quaquaval, Machamp. Steel-type Male Grunt: Kingambit, Quaquaval, Gholdengo. Fairy-type Female Grunt: Metagross, Revavroom, Magnezone.

Which Shadow Pokémon can you catch from Team GO Rocket right now?

Giovanni: Shadow Zekrom. Cliff: Shadow Cubone. Arlo: Shadow Alolan Grimer. Sierra: Shadow Pancham. From grunts: Teddiursa, Hoothoot, Porygon, Loudred, Stufful, Starly, Litwick, Ponyta, Torchic, Mudkip, Tentacool, Krabby, Magikarp, Feebas, Voltorb, Shinx, Helioptile, Electabuzz, Magnemite, Alolan Geodude, Phantump, Fomantis, Tangela, Seel, Delibird, Spheal, Timburr, Mankey, Makuhita, Hitmontop, Hitmonlee, Hitmonchan, Oddish, Zubat, Qwilfish, Galarian Weezing, Nidorino, Nidorina, Rhyhorn, Gligar, Trapinch, Claydol, Vibrava, Taillow, Rookidee, Swablu, Scyther, Wobbuffet, Ralts, Drowzee, Duosion, Venonat, Weedle, Wimpod, Pinsir, Anorith, Dewpider, Onix, Kabuto, Cranidos, Shieldon, Graveler, Duskull, Sandygast, Yamask, Noibat, Deino, Axew, Carvanha, Poochyena, Alolan Rattata, Sneasel, Houndour, Absol, Alolan Sandshrew, Aron, Beldum, Snubbull, Alolan Vulpix, Kirlia, Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Snorlax, Lapras, Bellsprout.

Data: LeekDuck via ScrapedDuck, PvPoke. Grunt lines are the game's own text. Pokémon GO © Niantic / Scopely / The Pokémon Company.