Dark type

In the Pokémon world, Dark-type is one of the eighteen elemental Pokémon types that Pokémon and their moves can have.

Dark-type Pokémon are characterized by their cunning, ruthless nature and their mastery over shadows and deception.

Dark-type Pokémon are often depicted as mysterious, sinister, and elusive creatures. They are associated with darkness, night, and underhanded tactics, reflecting their cunning and deceptive nature.

Several legendary and mythical Pokémon belong to the Dark type or possess Dark-type characteristics. Examples include Darkrai, the Pitch-Black Pokémon, and Yveltal, the Destruction Pokémon.

Dark type characteristics

Dark-type Pokémon possess various strengths and weaknesses that affect their performance in battles.

Strengths

Dark-type moves are super effective against Psychic and Ghost-type Pokémon, making Dark-type Pokémon effective counters to these types.

Dark-type Pokémon are immune to Psychic-type moves, providing them with an advantage against Psychic-type opponents.

Dark-type Pokémon have access to a diverse range of moves, including powerful physical and special attacks, status moves, and support moves.

Weaknesses

Dark-type Pokémon are weak to Fighting and Bug-type moves, making them susceptible to attacks from Pokémon of these types.

Dark-type moves are not super effective against many common types, such as Water, Grass, Fire and Electric, limiting their coverage in battles.

Dark type chart

Many Dark-type Pokémon are part of evolutionary lines that emphasize their cunning and deceptive nature. Notable Dark-type evolutionary lines include Poochyena-Mightyena, Murkrow-Honchkrow, and Sneasel-Weavile.

Dark-type moves encompass a variety of techniques used by Dark-type Pokémon in battles. Some iconic Dark-type moves include Crunch, Dark Pulse, Sucker Punch, and Knock Off.

In some Pokémon games, Trainers and Gym Leaders specialize in Dark-type battles. These formidable opponents employ cunning strategies and deceptive tactics to challenge Trainers seeking to test their skills against Dark-type Pokémon.

Dark type moves

Dark-type moves encompass a variety of sinister and underhanded techniques used by Dark-type Pokémon in battles. These Dark-type moves showcase the cunning and underhanded tactics employed by Dark-type Pokémon in battles, allowing them to disrupt opponents’ strategies, exploit weaknesses, and assert their dominance on the battlefield.

Concluding with Generation IX, there are 53 Dark-type moves, comprising 5.67% of all moves (excluding conditional Dark-type moves). This places Dark-type moves as the 5th most common type, alongside Water, after Fighting and before Electric. Before Generation IV, all offensive Dark-type moves were typically special, though this may vary now based on the specific attack. Additionally, certain moves have undergone changes in their typing.

Move	Category	Contest	Power	PP	Accuracy	Generation
Bite	Physical	Tough	60	25 (max 40)	100%	I
Beat Up	Physical	Clever	—	10 (max 16)	100%	II
Crunch	Physical	Tough	80	15 (max 24)	100%	II
Feint Attack	Physical	Clever	60	20 (max 32)	—%	II
Pursuit	Physical	Clever	40	20 (max 32)	100%	II
Thief	Physical	Tough	60	25 (max 40)	100%	II
Fake Tears	Status	Cute	—	20 (max 32)	100%	III
Flatter	Status	Clever	—	15 (max 24)	100%	III
Knock Off	Physical	Clever	65	20 (max 32)	100%	III
Memento	Status	Tough	—	10 (max 16)	100%	III
Snatch	Status	Clever	—	10 (max 16)	—%	III
Taunt	Status	Clever	—	20 (max 32)	100%	III
Torment	Status	Tough	—	15 (max 24)	100%	III
Assurance	Physical	Clever	60	10 (max 16)	100%	IV
Dark Pulse	Special	Cool	80	15 (max 24)	100%	IV
Dark Void	Status	Clever	—	10 (max 16)	50%	IV
Embargo	Status	Clever	—	15 (max 24)	100%	IV
Fling	Physical	Cute	—	10 (max 16)	100%	IV
Nasty Plot	Status	Clever	—	20 (max 32)	—%	IV
Night Slash	Physical	Cool	70	15 (max 24)	100%	IV
Payback	Physical	Tough	50	10 (max 16)	100%	IV
Punishment	Physical	Cool	—	5 (max 8)	100%	IV
Sucker Punch	Physical	Clever	70	5 (max 8)	100%	IV
Switcheroo	Status	Clever	—	10 (max 16)	100%	IV
Foul Play	Physical	Clever	95	15 (max 24)	100%	V
Hone Claws	Status	Cute	—	15 (max 24)	—%	V
Night Daze	Special	Cool	85	10 (max 16)	95%	V
Quash	Status	Clever	—	15 (max 24)	100%	V
Snarl	Special	Tough	55	15 (max 24)	95%	V
Hyperspace Fury	Physical	Tough	100	5 (max 8)	—%	VI
Parting Shot	Status	Cool	—	20 (max 32)	100%	VI
Topsy-Turvy	Status	Clever	—	20 (max 32)	—%	VI
Baddy Bad	Special		80	15 (max 24)	95%	VII
Black Hole Eclipse	Physical		—	1 (max 1)	—%	VII
Black Hole Eclipse	Special		—	1 (max 1)	—%	VII
Brutal Swing	Physical		60	20 (max 32)	100%	VII
Darkest Lariat	Physical		85	10 (max 16)	100%	VII
Malicious Moonsault	Physical		180	1 (max 1)	—%	VII
Power Trip	Physical		20	10 (max 16)	100%	VII
Throat Chop	Physical		80	15 (max 24)	100%	VII
Ceaseless Edge	Physical		65	15 (max 24)	90%	VIII
False Surrender	Physical		80	10 (max 16)	—%	VIII
Fiery Wrath	Special		90	10 (max 16)	100%	VIII
G-Max One Blow	Physical		—	3 (max 4)	—%	VIII
G-Max One Blow	Special		—	3 (max 4)	—%	VIII
G-Max Snooze	Physical		—	3 (max 4)	—%	VIII
G-Max Snooze	Special		—	3 (max 4)	—%	VIII
Jaw Lock	Physical		80	10 (max 16)	100%	VIII
Lash Out	Physical		75	5 (max 8)	100%	VIII
Max Darkness	Physical		—	3 (max 4)	—%	VIII
Max Darkness	Special		—	3 (max 4)	—%	VIII
Obstruct	Status		—	10 (max 16)	100%	VIII
Wicked Blow	Physical		75	5 (max 8)	100%	VIII
Comeuppance	Physical		—	10 (max 16)	100%	IX
Kowtow Cleave	Physical		85	10 (max 16)	—%	IX
Ruination	Special		—	10 (max 16)	90%	IX
Wicked Torque	Physical		80	10 (max 16)	100%	IX

Dark type abilities

Dark-type Pokémon often possess unique abilities that reflect their cunning and deceptive nature. Here are some notable abilities commonly associated with Dark-type Pokémon:

Dark Aura: Dark Aura is a signature ability of Yveltal, the Destruction Pokémon. It boosts the power of all Dark-type moves used by Pokémon on the field, enhancing their offensive capabilities.

Justified: Justified is an ability that raises the Pokémon’s Attack stat by one stage when hit by a Dark-type move. This ability allows Dark-type Pokémon to turn enemy attacks into a strength, empowering them in battle.

Sucker Punch: Sucker Punch is an ability exclusive to Spiritomb. It allows Spiritomb to use the move Sucker Punch regardless of its level or known moves, surprising opponents with a quick and unexpected attack.

Inner Focus: Inner Focus is an ability possessed by certain Dark-type Pokémon, such as Sneasel and Weavile. It prevents the Pokémon from flinching, providing them with stability and focus in battle.

Pickpocket: Pickpocket is an ability that allows the Pokémon to steal the held item of a Pokémon that makes contact with it. Dark-type Pokémon with this ability can take advantage of their opponents’ physical attacks to gain additional items during battle.

Prankster: Prankster is an ability often associated with Dark-type Pokémon, such as Sableye. It gives priority to status moves used by the Pokémon, allowing them to disrupt opponents’ strategies and set up their own tactics before the opponent can act.

Moxie: Moxie is an ability that boosts the Pokémon’s Attack stat by one stage each time it knocks out an opponent. This ability encourages aggressive playstyle and rewards Dark-type Pokémon for their ruthless nature in battle.

Defiant: Defiant is an ability that raises the Pokémon’s Attack stat by two stages when its stats are lowered by an opponent’s move. This ability reflects the defiant and combative nature of Dark-type Pokémon, empowering them when faced with adversity.

These Dark-type abilities add depth and versatility to Dark-type Pokémon, allowing them to excel in battles through cunning strategies, unexpected moves, and ruthless tactics.

Dark type Pokémon Trainers

Dark-type Pokémon Trainers typically embody traits that mirror the nature of their chosen Pokémon, emphasizing cunning, determination, and a certain edge.

Dark-type Trainers often project an aura of mystery and intrigue, with a hint of mischief or cunning in their demeanor. They are known for their cleverness and ability to outsmart opponents in battles. These Trainers often employ unconventional strategies and tactics in battles, such as status ailments, flinching moves, and surprise attacks, reflecting the unpredictable nature of Dark-type Pokémon.

Dark-type Trainers are resourceful and adaptable, utilizing the strengths of their Pokémon to overcome challenges and exploit weaknesses in their opponents’ teams. Dark-type Trainers are comfortable with the darker aspects of life and often have a fascination with shadows, night, and the unknown. They may prefer battling in dimly lit environments or under the cover of darkness.

Many Dark-type Trainers are driven by ambition and a desire for power or success. They are determined to achieve their goals and will do whatever it takes to emerge victorious in battles and competitions. Dark-type Trainers often possess an independent spirit and may prefer to operate alone or with a small, close-knit group of allies. They value self-reliance and may be wary of trusting others.

Despite their tough exterior, Dark-type Trainers form strong bonds with their Pokémon. They understand and appreciate the loyalty and strength of their team members, forging deep connections based on mutual respect and trust.

Notable Dark-type Pokémon Trainers are:

Karen

Member of the Indigo Elite Four

Generation II, IV

Karen is a member of the Johto region‘s Elite Four. Specializing in Dark-type Pokémon, she challenges Trainers to confront the darkness within themselves and their Pokémon, advocating for balance and acceptance of all types.

Sidney

Member of the Hoenn Elite Four

Generation III, VI

Sidney is one of the Hoenn region‘s Elite Four members. As a Dark-type Trainer, he exudes a laid-back demeanor while demonstrating the power and versatility of Dark-type Pokémon in battles.

Grimsley

Member of the Unova Elite Four

Generation V

Grimsley is an Elite Four member in the Unova region‘s Pokémon League. Known for his affinity for games of chance and luck, he utilizes Dark-type Pokémon to keep his opponents guessing and to exploit their weaknesses.

Nanu

The kahuna of Ula’ula Island

Generation VIII

Nanu is the Kahuna of Ula’ula Island in the Alola region and a former member of the International Police. Specializing in Dark-type Pokémon, he embodies the laid-back attitude of the Alolan islands while demonstrating his skill in battles.

Marnie

The Gym Leader of her hometown Spikemuth (replaces her older brother Piers)

Generation VII

Marnie is a prominent character in the Galar region, appearing in Pokémon Sword and Shield as one of the rival characters. She is a skilled Trainer from Spikemuth and the rival of the player character. Marnie specializes in Dark-type Pokémon and aspires to become the Champion of the Galar region, carrying on her brother Piers’ legacy.

Piers

Singer-songwriter, the boss of Team Yell and the Gym Leader of Spikemuth’s Gym

Generation VIII

Piers is the Gym Leader of Spikemuth, the Dark-type Gym in the Galar region. As the older brother of Marnie, he leads the gym with a tough exterior but cares deeply for his sister and the people of Spikemuth.

Giacomo

The boss of Team Star’s Dark crew, the Segin Squad

Generation IX

Giacomo is a character from the Pokémon Adventures manga series. He is a skilled Dark-type Pokémon Trainer. Giacomo is known for his cunning tactics and his use of Dark-type Pokémon to further Team Rocket’s nefarious goals.

These Dark-type Pokémon Trainers exemplify the diversity and strength of Dark-type Pokémon, utilizing their cunning, versatility, and strategic prowess to overcome challenges and achieve victory in battles.

Dark type Pokémon

Ending with Generation IX, there are a total of 89 Dark-type Pokémon species in the Pokémon universe. This includes both pure Dark-type Pokémon and dual-type Pokémon that have Dark as one of their types.

Pokedex No	Pokemon name	Type
#0019	Alolan Rattata	DARK NORMAL
#0020	Alolan Raticate	DARK NORMAL
#0052	Alolan Meowth	DARK
#0053	Alolan Persian	DARK
#0088	Alolan Grimer	POISON DARK
#0089	Alolan Muk	POISON DARK
#0130	Mega Gyarados	WATER DARK
#0146	Galarian Moltres	DARK FLYING
#0197	Umbreon	DARK
#0198	Murkrow	DARK FLYING
#0211	Hisuian Qwilfish	DARK POISON
#0215	Sneasel	DARK ICE
#0228	Houndour	DARK FIRE
#0229	Houndoom	DARK FIRE
#0229	Mega Houndoom	DARK FIRE
#0248	Tyranitar	ROCK DARK
#0248	Mega Tyranitar	ROCK DARK
#0261	Poochyena	DARK
#0262	Mightyena	DARK
#0263	Galarian Zigzagoon	DARK NORMAL
#0264	Galarian Linoone	DARK NORMAL
#0274	Nuzleaf	GRASS DARK
#0275	Shiftry	GRASS DARK
#0302	Sableye	DARK GHOST
#0302	Mega Sableye	DARK GHOST
#0318	Carvanha	WATER DARK
#0319	Sharpedo	WATER DARK
#0319	Mega Sharpedo	WATER DARK
#0332	Cacturne	GRASS DARK
#0342	Crawdaunt	WATER DARK
#0359	Absol	DARK
#0359	Mega Absol	DARK
#0430	Honchkrow	DARK FLYING
#0434	Stunky	POISON DARK
#0435	Skuntank	POISON DARK
#0442	Spiritomb	GHOST DARK
#0452	Drapion	POISON DARK
#0461	Weavile	DARK ICE
#0491	Darkrai	DARK
#0503	Hisuian Samurott	WATER DARK
#0509	Purrloin	DARK
#0510	Liepard	DARK
#0551	Sandile	GROUND DARK
#0552	Krokorok	GROUND DARK
#0553	Krookodile	GROUND DARK
#0559	Scraggy	DARK FIGHTING
#0560	Scrafty	DARK FIGHTING
#0570	Zorua	DARK
#0571	Zoroark	DARK
#0624	Pawniard	DARK STEEL
#0625	Bisharp	DARK STEEL
#0629	Vullaby	DARK FLYING
#0630	Mandibuzz	DARK FLYING
#0633	Deino	DARK DRAGON
#0634	Zweilous	DARK DRAGON
#0635	Hydreigon	DARK DRAGON
#0658	Greninja	WATER DARK
#0658	Greninja (Ash-Greninja)	WATER DARK
#0675	Pangoro	FIGHTING DARK
#0686	Inkay	DARK PSYCHIC
#0687	Malamar	DARK PSYCHIC
#0717	Yveltal	DARK FLYING
#0720	Hoopa (Hoopa Unbound)	PSYCHIC DARK
#0727	Incineroar	FIRE DARK
#0799	Guzzlord	DARK DRAGON
#0827	Nickit	DARK
#0828	Thievul	DARK
#0859	Impidimp	DARK FAIRY
#0860	Morgrem	DARK FAIRY
#0861	Grimmsnarl	DARK FAIRY
#0862	Obstagoon	DARK NORMAL
#0877	Morpeko (Full Belly Mode)	ELECTRIC DARK
#0877	Morpeko (Hangry Mode)	ELECTRIC DARK
#0892	Urshifu (Single Strike Style)	FIGHTING DARK
#0893	Zarude	DARK GRASS
#0904	Overqwil	DARK POISON
#0908	Meowscarada	GRASS DARK
#0920	Lokix	BUG DARK
#0942	Maschiff	DARK
#0943	Mabosstiff	DARK
#0962	Bombirdier	FLYING DARK
#0983	Kingambit	DARK STEEL
#0986	Brute Bonnet	GRASS DARK
#0993	Iron Jugulis	DARK FLYING
#1001	Wo-Chien	DARK GRASS
#1002	Chien-Pao	DARK ICE
#1003	Ting-Lu	DARK GROUND
#1004	Chi-Yu	DARK FIRE
#1005	Roaring Moon	DRAGON DARK

Overall, Dark-type Pokémon are renowned for their cunning, ruthlessness, and mastery over shadows and deception. They play a crucial role in battles, offering unique advantages and posing formidable challenges to opponents brave enough to face them.