Shadow Kyogre Raid Guide: Tips & Counters

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of Shadow Kyogre raids? This legendary Pokémon is a force to be reckoned with, and taking it down requires a solid strategy and a team of dedicated trainers. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to successfully challenge and capture Shadow Kyogre. Let's get started!

What is Shadow Kyogre?

First things first, let's talk about what makes Shadow Kyogre so special. Shadow Pokémon are a unique variant in Pokémon GO, known for their enhanced attack power but reduced defense. This makes them glass cannons – they can dish out massive damage, but they can also be taken down more easily. Shadow Kyogre, as a Shadow Legendary, takes this concept to the extreme. It boasts incredible Water-type attacks that can decimate opponents, making it a prized addition to any trainer's roster. However, its vulnerability means you'll need to plan your battles carefully.

Why is Shadow Kyogre so desirable? Well, its raw power is a major draw. In raids, gyms, and even Trainer Battles, Shadow Kyogre can be a game-changer. Its Water-type attacks are super effective against common types like Fire, Ground, and Rock, giving it a significant edge in many matchups. Furthermore, the rarity of Shadow Legendaries adds to their appeal. These Pokémon are only available during special events and through challenging Team GO Rocket battles, making them a status symbol for dedicated players. Think of it as catching a super rare shiny, but with the added benefit of incredible battling prowess.

To put it simply, Shadow Kyogre is a beast. It’s got the power to sweep through teams if you use it right. But remember, it’s a double-edged sword. You need to strategize and bring your A-game to make the most of its strengths while mitigating its weaknesses. So, are you ready to learn how to conquer this formidable foe? Let's dive into the nitty-gritty details of Shadow Kyogre raids!

Preparing for the Raid

Okay, trainers, preparation is key when it comes to tackling a Shadow Kyogre raid. You can't just waltz in with any team and expect to win. You need a solid plan, the right Pokémon, and a bit of coordination. Let's break down the essential steps to get you raid-ready.

1. Understand Kyogre's Weaknesses

This is Pokémon 101, guys. Knowing your enemy's weaknesses is crucial. Kyogre is a Water-type Pokémon, which means it's vulnerable to Electric and Grass-type attacks. This is your starting point for building a strong counter team. Don't even think about bringing Fire, Ground, or Rock-types – Kyogre's Water-type moves will make short work of them.

2. Assemble Your Counter Team

Now that we know the weaknesses, let's talk Pokémon. You'll want to fill your team with the strongest Electric and Grass-type Pokémon you can get your hands on. Here are some top-tier choices:

• Electric-types:
  • Mega Manectric: This Pokémon packs a serious punch with its Electric-type moves. Its mega evolution makes it an absolute powerhouse, capable of dealing massive damage to Kyogre. If you have a Mega Manectric, it's a must-have for your team. The extra boost it gives to other Electric-type attackers is invaluable. Plus, let's be honest, it looks super cool.
  • Zekrom: A Legendary Dragon/Electric-type, Zekrom has incredible attack stats and access to powerful Electric-type moves. Its dual typing also gives it some added resistance, making it a bit more durable than some other Electric-types. Zekrom is a reliable choice that can consistently deal high damage throughout the raid.
  • Raikou: Another excellent Electric-type Legendary, Raikou boasts impressive stats and a strong moveset. It's a consistent performer in raids and can withstand a decent amount of damage. Raikou is a great all-around pick for anyone looking to fill out their team with solid Electric-type attackers.
  • Electivire: This Electric-type is a great non-Legendary option. It's relatively easy to obtain and power up, making it a practical choice for trainers who may not have access to the rarer Legendaries. Electivire hits hard and fast, making it a valuable asset in the fight against Kyogre.
• Grass-types:
  • Mega Sceptile: Similar to Mega Manectric, Mega Sceptile is a top-tier choice for its sheer damage output. Its Grass-type attacks can tear through Kyogre's health bar, and the mega evolution provides a significant boost to the entire team. Mega Sceptile is a fantastic choice if you're looking to maximize your team's damage potential.
  • Kartana: This Ultra Beast is a Grass/Steel-type with incredible attack stats. It's one of the hardest-hitting Grass-types in the game, making it a prime choice for taking down Kyogre. Kartana's Steel typing also gives it some useful resistances, which can help it stay in the battle longer.
  • Tangrowth: A bulky Grass-type, Tangrowth can withstand a lot of damage while still dishing out respectable damage. Its high HP and Defense stats make it a reliable choice for trainers who want a Pokémon that can stay in the fight. Tangrowth is a great option for those who prefer a more defensive approach.
  • Roserade: Roserade is a solid Grass/Poison-type that can deal significant damage. It's a bit more fragile than some other options, but its strong attacks make it a worthwhile choice for trainers looking to maximize their offensive capabilities. Roserade is a great pick for those who want to hit hard and fast.

Don't underestimate the importance of having a well-balanced team. Mix and match these Pokémon based on their strengths and your personal preferences. The goal is to create a team that can consistently deal high damage while staying alive long enough to take down Kyogre.

3. Power Up Your Pokémon

This might seem obvious, but it's worth emphasizing: you need to power up your Pokémon. A team of level 20 Pokémon isn't going to cut it against Shadow Kyogre. Invest your Stardust and Candies to get your team to at least level 30, and ideally higher. The higher the level, the more damage your Pokémon will deal and the more damage they can withstand. Think of it as an investment in your raiding future – a strong team will pay dividends in future battles as well.

4. Learn Kyogre's Moveset

Knowing what moves Kyogre can use is crucial for dodging and planning your attacks. Kyogre can have a variety of Fast and Charged moves, some of which are more dangerous than others. Here are some of the moves you might encounter:

• Fast Moves: Waterfall (Water), Hidden Power (Normal)
• Charged Moves: Hydro Pump (Water), Thunder (Electric), Blizzard (Ice), Surf (Water)

Hydro Pump is Kyogre's most powerful Water-type move, and it can deal massive damage to anything that doesn't resist it. Thunder is an Electric-type move that can obliterate Water-types, so be careful if you're using Pokémon like Gyarados. Blizzard is an Ice-type move that can catch Grass-types off guard, so keep that in mind when choosing your team. Surf is a faster-charging Water-type move that can be used more frequently, putting constant pressure on your team.

By knowing the moveset, you can anticipate Kyogre's attacks and time your dodges accordingly. Dodging is key to staying alive and dealing consistent damage throughout the raid. A well-timed dodge can be the difference between victory and defeat, so practice your timing and stay alert during the battle.

5. Gather Your Raid Group

Shadow Raids are tough, guys. You're going to need backup. Team up with other trainers to increase your chances of success. The more players you have, the more damage you can dish out, and the faster you can take down Kyogre. Coordinate with your team to ensure you have a diverse lineup of counters and a solid strategy.

There are several ways to find a raid group:

• Local Pokémon GO Communities: Check your local Facebook groups, Discord servers, and other online communities for trainers who are also looking to raid. This is a great way to connect with players in your area and coordinate raids in person.
• Remote Raiding Apps: There are several apps and websites dedicated to remote raiding. These platforms allow you to join raids from anywhere in the world, making it easy to team up with trainers regardless of location. Some popular options include PokeGenie and Discord raid servers.
• Friends List: Don't forget about your friends list in the game! Reach out to your active friends and see if they're interested in joining the raid. Coordinating with friends can make the experience even more enjoyable.

Communication is key when raiding with a group. Use voice chat or text chat to coordinate your attacks, call out Kyogre's moves, and adjust your strategy as needed. A well-coordinated team can overcome even the most challenging raids.

6. Stock Up on Items

Don't forget your supplies! Potions, Revives, and Golden Razz Berries are essential for any raid battle. Potions and Revives will keep your Pokémon in fighting shape, while Golden Razz Berries will increase your chances of catching Kyogre after the battle. Make sure you have a healthy supply of these items before you head into the raid.

Here's a quick rundown of the items you should bring:

• Potions and Super Potions: Use these to heal your Pokémon during and after the battle.
• Hyper Potions and Max Potions: These provide the most healing and are essential for keeping your Pokémon at full health.
• Revives and Max Revives: Use these to revive fainted Pokémon. Max Revives fully restore a Pokémon's HP, making them the best choice for raids.
• Golden Razz Berries: Use these when trying to catch Kyogre after the raid. They significantly increase your chances of success.

Having a good supply of these items can make the difference between winning and losing the battle, as well as catching Kyogre afterward. So, stock up before you head out to the raid!

The Raid Battle

Alright, trainers, you've done your homework, assembled your team, and stocked up on supplies. Now it's time to face the beast! The raid battle against Shadow Kyogre is where all your preparation comes to fruition. Let's break down what you need to know to succeed in the heat of the moment.

1. Join the Raid

First things first, you need to find a Shadow Kyogre raid. These raids appear at Gyms that are under the control of Team GO Rocket. Keep an eye out for the telltale Shadow Raid symbol above Gyms on your map. Once you find a raid, head to the Gym and join the battle.

Shadow Raids have a few unique mechanics compared to regular raids:

• Raid Eggs: Shadow Raids are preceded by special Shadow Raid Eggs, which give you a heads-up about upcoming raids. Keep an eye on these eggs to plan your raid schedule.
• Enraged Kyogre: Shadow Kyogre can become enraged during the battle, significantly increasing its attack power. You'll need to work together with your team to calm it down.
• Purified Gems: To calm down an enraged Shadow Kyogre, you'll need to use Purified Gems. These gems can be crafted by collecting Shadow Shards, which are dropped by Team GO Rocket grunts. Make sure your team is collecting Shadow Shards and crafting Purified Gems before the raid.

Joining a Shadow Raid requires a Raid Pass or a Remote Raid Pass. Make sure you have one in your inventory before you attempt to join the battle. Once you're ready, tap on the Gym and select the Shadow Kyogre raid to join the queue.

2. Dodge, Dodge, Dodge!

We can't stress this enough, guys: dodging is crucial in this battle. Shadow Kyogre hits hard, and its Charged Moves can wipe out your Pokémon in a single blow if you're not careful. Pay attention to Kyogre's attack animations and swipe to dodge at the right moment. A successful dodge will significantly reduce the damage you take, allowing your Pokémon to stay in the fight longer.

Here are a few tips for dodging effectively:

• Watch for the Flash: Kyogre will flash its body just before launching a Charged Move. This is your cue to swipe and dodge.
• Time Your Dodges: Don't dodge too early or too late. Aim to dodge just as the attack is about to hit your Pokémon.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Dodging takes practice, so don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Keep practicing, and you'll become a dodging master in no time.

Dodging not only helps you survive, but it also allows you to deal more damage over time. Pokémon that are constantly fainting can't contribute to the battle. By dodging effectively, you can keep your Pokémon in the fight and maximize your damage output.

3. Use Purified Gems Wisely

As we mentioned earlier, Shadow Kyogre can become enraged during the battle. When this happens, its attack power will skyrocket, making it even more dangerous. To calm Kyogre down, you'll need to use Purified Gems.

Here's how Purified Gems work:

• Crafting: Purified Gems are crafted by combining Shadow Shards, which are dropped by Team GO Rocket grunts.
• Using: During the raid, you can use Purified Gems by tapping the gem icon on the screen. Each gem will temporarily reduce Kyogre's attack power.
• Coordination: It's important to coordinate with your team when using Purified Gems. You'll want to use them strategically to maximize their effect. For example, you might want to use a gem just before Kyogre launches a powerful Charged Move.

Using Purified Gems effectively is key to winning the battle against Shadow Kyogre. Make sure your team is collecting Shadow Shards and crafting gems, and communicate with each other to use them at the right time.

4. Maximize Your Damage Output

While dodging and using Purified Gems are important for survival, you also need to deal as much damage as possible to Kyogre. Use your strongest Electric and Grass-type moves, and take advantage of any type advantages you have. If you're using Mega Pokémon, their mega evolution will provide a significant boost to your team's damage output.

Here are a few tips for maximizing your damage output:

• Fast Tapping: Tap your screen as quickly as possible to unleash Fast Moves. The more Fast Moves you use, the more energy you'll generate for Charged Moves.
• Charged Move Timing: Use your Charged Moves strategically. Don't waste them when Kyogre is about to use a Charged Move of its own. Instead, wait for a safe opportunity to unleash your most powerful attacks.
• Type Effectiveness: Always use moves that are super effective against Kyogre. Electric and Grass-type moves will deal significantly more damage than other types.

Dealing high damage is essential for taking down Kyogre before time runs out. Focus on using your strongest moves, dodging effectively, and coordinating with your team to maximize your damage output.

5. Don't Give Up!

Raids can be tough, guys. You might faint a few Pokémon, or even wipe out your entire team. But don't give up! Rejoin the battle with a fresh team and keep fighting. With enough persistence and a solid strategy, you can overcome Shadow Kyogre.

Here are a few tips for staying in the battle:

• Revive and Heal: Use Potions and Revives to keep your Pokémon in fighting shape. If a Pokémon faints, revive it and heal it up before rejoining the battle.
• Switch Pokémon: If a Pokémon is taking too much damage, switch it out for another member of your team. This can help you preserve your team's health and keep the damage flowing.
• Learn from Mistakes: If you faint, take a moment to analyze what went wrong. Did you miss a dodge? Did you use the wrong move? Learn from your mistakes and adjust your strategy for the next attempt.

Raids are a team effort, and every contribution counts. Even if you're not dealing the most damage, your presence in the battle can make a difference. So, keep fighting, stay positive, and don't give up until you've taken down Kyogre!

Catching Shadow Kyogre

Congratulations, trainers! You've defeated Shadow Kyogre. Now comes the next challenge: catching it. This is where your Golden Razz Berries and excellent throws come into play. Let's dive into the strategies for securing this legendary catch.

1. Use Golden Razz Berries

This is the golden rule of catching legendaries, guys. Golden Razz Berries significantly increase your chances of catching a Pokémon. Use one before every throw to maximize your odds. Don't even think about using regular Razz Berries or Nanab Berries – Golden Razz Berries are the way to go.

Here's why Golden Razz Berries are so effective:

• Increased Catch Rate: They provide the highest catch rate bonus in the game, making it much easier to catch even the most elusive Pokémon.
• Legendary Essential: They're practically essential for catching Legendary Pokémon, which have notoriously low catch rates.
• Worth the Investment: Golden Razz Berries may seem rare, but they're worth the investment when you're trying to catch a Pokémon like Shadow Kyogre.

Make sure you have a good supply of Golden Razz Berries before you attempt the raid. You can earn them by completing raids, Research Tasks, and other in-game activities. Stock up, and you'll be well-prepared to catch Shadow Kyogre.

2. Aim for Excellent Throws

Accuracy is key when catching Shadow Kyogre. Excellent throws provide the highest catch rate bonus, so aim for the smallest circle possible when throwing your Poké Ball. This takes practice, but it's well worth the effort. The better your throws, the higher your chances of catching Kyogre.

Here are a few tips for landing excellent throws:

• Circle Size: Wait for the target circle to shrink to its smallest size before throwing your Poké Ball. This is when you'll get the Excellent throw bonus.
• Timing: Practice your timing to consistently hit the Excellent throw zone. It may take a few tries to get the hang of it, but don't give up.
• Curveballs: Throwing a curveball can slightly increase your catch rate. To throw a curveball, spin the Poké Ball before releasing it.

Excellent throws require patience and precision, but they can significantly improve your chances of catching Shadow Kyogre. Take your time, focus on your aim, and practice those throws.

3. Observe Kyogre's Attack Pattern

Kyogre, like other raid bosses, has an attack pattern that it follows between throws. Pay attention to this pattern and time your throws accordingly. Throw your Poké Ball just after Kyogre attacks to increase your chances of hitting it. This is known as the