Zapdos, a legendary Electric and Flying-type Pokémon, is a coveted catch for many trainers in Pokémon Go. As a member of the original trio of legendary birds, this electric avian powerhouse can pose quite a challenge in raids. In this guide, we will walk you through the best counters, weaknesses, and moveset to equip yourself for a successful Zapdos raid.

Weaknesses:

Knowing your enemy’s weaknesses is crucial in battling and capturing Zapdos. As an Electric and Flying-type, Zapdos is weak against three types of attacks:

1. Ice

2. Rock

3. Electric (only when facing its Flying-type moves)

Keep these weaknesses in mind when choosing which Pokémon to use during the raid.

Best Counters:

To increase your chances of winning a Zapdos raid and earning the opportunity to capture this legendary bird, it’s essential to have an optimal team. Here are some of the best counters to consider:

1. Rhyperior (Rock Wrecker / Smack Down) – This powerful Rock and Ground-type Pokémon is a formidable counter against Zapdos thanks to its high stamina and strong Rock-type moves that exploit Zapdos’ weakness.

2. Rampardos (Rock Slide / Smack Down) – Its pure Rock-typing allows Rampardos to hit hard with its impressive attack power while resisting Flying-type moves from Zapdos.

3. Tyranitar (Stone Edge / Smack Down) – Tyranitar boasts both high attack power and durability, making it another excellent counter to Zapdos.

4. Mamoswine (Avalanche / Powder Snow) – This dual Ice and Ground-type Pokémon can deal significant damage with its Ice-type moves while also resisting Electric attacks.

5. Terrakion (Rock Slide / Smack Down) – Utilizing its Rock moves, Terrakion is an elite counter to Zapdos due to its powerful hits and decent defense.

Moveset:

Zapdos has several possible movesets. However, the ideal one for you depends on two main factors: 1) whether you will use it in raids and gym battles or 2) if you plan to employ it in the PvP (Player-versus-Player) arena.

For Raids and Gym Battles:

1. Charge Beam – An excellent fast move that generates energy quickly for the Electric-type charge moves.

2. Thunderbolt – This charge move offers optimal damage per energy spent while being faster than other available charge moves.

For PvP:

1. Thundershock – This fast move is more desirable for PvP because it charges energy even faster than Charge Beam.

2. Drill Peck – A great Flying-type charge move that allows you to hit opponents harder when they resist Electric-type attacks.

In conclusion, understanding Zapdos’ weaknesses and best counters, as well as tailoring its moveset based on your intended usage, will drastically increase your chances of a successful raid and make this legendary bird a valuable addition to your team. Best of luck capturing this electric avian powerhouse!