The Catch Cup has returned to Pokémon GO PvP, running until August 23. Unlike other leagues, the Catch Cup operates under Great League rules, which means a CP cap of 1500. However, it comes with a unique twist: you can only use Pokémon caught this season (since June 1st).
This means that your usual Great League team might not be eligible, pushing you to adapt your strategy with freshly caught Pokémon.
What Makes a Great Catch Cup Team?
Choosing the best team for the Catch Cup can be tricky. Pokémon GO PvP is all about counters, movesets, and outsmarting your opponent. While there’s no one-size-fits-all team, the following Pokémon have proven to be strong contenders this season:
Top Team Recommendation
- Carbink
Moveset: Rock Throw, Rock Slide, Moonblast
Carbink offers excellent bulk and coverage. However, it requires XL candy to reach the 1500 CP cap, so you’ll need to have caught and powered up one this season. - Registeel
Moveset: Lock On, Focus Blast, Zap Cannon
Registeel is a consistent pick due to its impressive defense and powerful charge moves. - Shadow Gligar
Moveset: Wing Attack, Aerial Ace, Dig
Shadow Gligar is versatile, offering solid coverage against various types.
Other Solid Pokémon for the Catch Cup
If you’re looking to diversify your team or try something different, consider these Pokémon:
- Bastiodon
Moveset: Smack Down, Stone Edge, Flamethrower - Shadow Quagsire
Moveset: Mud Shot, Mud Bomb, Stone Edge - Skarmory
Moveset: Steel Wing, Brave Bird, Sky Attack - Lanturn
Moveset: Spark, Surf, Thunderbolt - Shadow Feraligatr
Moveset: Shadow Claw, Hydro Cannon, Ice Beam - Mantine
Moveset: Wing Attack, Aerial Ace, Ice Beam - Swampert
Moveset: Mud Shot, Hydro Cannon, Earthquake - Clodsire
Moveset: Mud Shot, Earthquake, Stone Edge - Empoleon (Shadow or non-Shadow)
Moveset: Steel Wing, Hydro Cannon, Drill Peck - Galarian Stunfisk
Moveset: Mud Shot, Rock Slide, Earthquake - Steelix
Moveset: Dragon Tail, Psychic Fangs, Crunch - Mandibuzz
Moveset: Snarl, Dark Pulse, Aerial Ace - Aurorus
Moveset: Powder Snow, Weather Ball (Ice), Meteor Beam
Additional Considerations
Shadow Pokémon are a powerful option in the Catch Cup, but they come with higher costs for power-ups and are harder to optimize with ideal IVs. For a temporary PvP Cup, consider whether the investment is worth it for your lineup.
Conclusion
Incorporating any of these Pokémon into your team should provide a solid foundation for success in the Catch Cup. Adapt your strategy, experiment with different combinations, and you’ll be well-prepared to take on the competition. Good luck out there, Trainers!
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