To beat Giovanni in Pokémon Go as of August 2025, here is a summarized strategy based on his current team and effective counters: Giovanni's current lineup usually includes:
- Persian (Slot 1)
- Nidoking or Kangaskhan or Rhyperior (Slot 2)
- Shadow Dialga (Slot 3)
Tips and Counters:
-
Counter Persian (Slot 1):
Persian is weak to Fighting-type moves. Use strong Fighting-type Pokémon like Mega Lucario with Force Palm and Aura Sphere, Machamp, or Terrakion. Place your Fighting-type Pokémon in the second slot and switch to it immediately to exploit a delay in Persian's reaction and efficiently break its two Protect Shields. -
Counter Slot 2 Pokémon:
- If Nidoking or Rhyperior: Use strong Water-type or Ground-type Pokémon like Swampert or Primal Kyogre.
- If Kangaskhan: Fighting-type Pokémon like Machamp or Mega Lucario work well.
-
Counter Dialga (Slot 3):
Dialga is Dragon/Steel type, weak to Fighting and Ground moves. Ideal counters include Primal Groudon, Garchomp, Excadrill, or shadows of these Ground or Fighting types.
Battle Strategy:
- Giovanni has two Protect Shields, so starting with a Pokémon that can quickly use two Charged moves to remove these shields is important.
- Switch strategically, especially putting your Fighting-type counter to Persian in the second slot and switching immediately.
- Heal your Pokémon between battles if you challenge Giovanni multiple times.
Recommended Team Example:
- Slot 1: Primal Kyogre, Mega Garchomp, or other strong Water/Ground types
- Slot 2: Mega Lucario or a strong Fighting-type
- Slot 3: Primal Groudon, Groudon, or another strong Ground/Fighting type
Following these tips will maximize the chance to beat Giovanni and gain rewards including a chance to catch his Legendary Shadow Pokémon (currently Shadow Dialga) and other useful items.
