Zekrom, the Legendary Dragon and Electric-type Pokémon from the Unova region, is a prized catch for trainers in Pokémon Go. Known for its formidable stats and unique typing, Zekrom is both a challenge to defeat and a valuable addition to any team. This guide will walk you through the steps to successfully locate, battle, and capture Zekrom.
Understanding Zekrom’s Raid Battles
Zekrom typically appears in five-star Raid Battles, which are among the most challenging encounters in Pokémon Go. These raids are time-limited events where trainers must collaborate to defeat the raid boss. To participate, you’ll need a Raid Pass, obtainable from spinning Gym Photo Discs or purchasing from the in-game shop.
When and Where to Find Zekrom
Niantic, the developer of Pokémon Go, periodically rotates Legendary Pokémon in raids. Zekrom’s availability is announced through in-game news, official social media channels, and event updates. To maximize your chances, stay informed about upcoming events and raid rotations.
Preparing for the Battle
Before challenging Zekrom, it’s crucial to understand its strengths and weaknesses:
- Typing: Zekrom is a Dragon and Electric-type Pokémon.
- Weaknesses: It is vulnerable to Dragon, Fairy, Ground, and Ice-type moves.
- Resistances: It resists Electric, Fire, Flying, Grass, Steel, and Water-type attacks.
Recommended Pokémon Counters
To effectively counter Zekrom, consider using the following Pokémon:
- Dragon-type Attackers:
- Mega Rayquaza: With Dragon Tail and Breaking Swipe, Mega Rayquaza can exploit Zekrom’s Dragon-type weakness.
- Dragonite: Utilizing Dragon Tail and Outrage, Dragonite offers both durability and offense.
- Ground-type Attackers:
- Groudon: Equipped with Mud Shot and Precipice Blades, Groudon can effectively target Zekrom’s Electric typing.
- Garchomp: Using Mud Shot and Earth Power, Garchomp provides a balance of offense and defense.
- Ice-type Attackers:
- Mamoswine: With Powder Snow and Avalanche, Mamoswine can exploit Zekrom’s Dragon typing.
- Weavile: Utilizing Ice Shard and Avalanche, Weavile offers high-speed attacks.
- Fairy-type Attackers:
- Gardevoir: Equipped with Charm and Dazzling Gleam, Gardevoir can effectively counter Dragon-type moves.
- Togekiss: Using Charm and Dazzling Gleam, Togekiss provides both offense and defense.
Battle Strategies
Here are some strategies to increase your chances of defeating Zekrom:
- Team Composition: Assemble a team of six high-level Pokémon that exploit Zekrom’s weaknesses.
- Weather Considerations: Weather conditions can influence battle dynamics. For example, cloudy weather boosts Fairy-type moves, while snowy weather enhances Ice-type attacks.
- Dodging Charged Attacks: Zekrom’s charged moves, such as Outrage and Wild Charge, can deal significant damage. Learning to dodge these attacks can prolong your Pokémon’s survival.
Catching Zekrom Post-Battle
After successfully defeating Zekrom, you’ll have the opportunity to catch it using Premier Balls. The number of Premier Balls awarded depends on several factors:
- Team Contribution: The more damage your team inflicts, the more Premier Balls you’ll receive.
- Gym Control: If your team controls the Gym where the raid takes place, you’ll earn additional Premier Balls.
- Friendship Level: Raiding with friends increases the number of Premier Balls awarded.
Maximizing Your Catch Rate
To improve your chances of capturing Zekrom:
- Use Berries: Golden Razz Berries significantly enhance catch rates. Silver Pinap Berries not only increase the catch rate but also grant extra Zekrom Candy upon a successful capture.
- Aim for Excellent Throws: Waiting for Zekrom to settle before throwing and aiming for the smallest possible target circle can lead to Excellent Throws, further boosting your catch chances.
- Utilize Curveballs: Throwing curveballs adds a multiplier to your catch rate.
Post-Capture Considerations
Once you’ve caught Zekrom:
- Appraise Its IVs: Use the in-game appraisal system to assess Zekrom’s stats. High IVs indicate better performance potential.
- Powering Up: Given Zekrom’s Legendary status, powering it up requires substantial Stardust and Candy. Prioritize leveling up to maximize its battle effectiveness.
- Move Sets: Consider teaching Zekrom optimal moves for its role. For example, Dragon Breath and Outrage are excellent for Dragon-type offense.
Participating in Raid Hours
Niantic often schedules Raid Hours, typically on Wednesdays from 6 PM to 7 PM local time, focusing on specific Legendary Pokémon like Zekrom. During these events, numerous raids appear, providing ample opportunities to challenge and capture Zekrom.
Remote Raiding
With the introduction of Remote Raid Passes, you can join raids without being physically present at the Gym. This feature allows you to participate in Zekrom raids worldwide, increasing your chances of encountering and capturing it.
Trading for Zekrom
If you’re unable to catch Zekrom during its raid availability, consider trading with another trainer.
