Dark-type Pokémon are weak to Bug, Fairy, and Fighting-type moves, so those are the most effective counters. They also resist or take neutral damage from several other types, but the key weaknesses to exploit are Bug, Fairy, and Fighting. Here’s a concise guide to maximize effectiveness in battles.
Core weaknesses
- Bug-type moves: super effective against Dark-type Pokémon. Good general counter option.
- Fairy-type moves: super effective; often among the strongest counters due to high offensive power.
- Fighting-type moves: super effective; also useful, especially since several Dark-types have notable resistances to other common attack types.
Practical counter choices
- If you’re playing the main series games:
- Use Bug-type Pokémon or moves that leverage their effectiveness.
- Use Fairy-type Pokémon or moves to exploit the weakness.
- Use Fighting-type Pokémon or moves as a reliable option.
- If you’re playing Pokémon GO:
- Favor Fairy and Fighting-type counters for most Dark-type foes.
- Bug-type counters are viable but may be less common in some metas; use when available.
Quick tips
- Watch for dual-typing: some Dark-type Pokémon have secondary typings that shift resistances and weaknesses. For example, a Dark/Fighting or Dark/Steel combination changes the matchup dynamics.
- Consider move sets: even when a type is super effective, the best results come from high-powered moves closer to a quick knockout.
- Protecting your own team: Dark-types often have strong special and physical attacks; balance your lineup to withstand their primary moves while targeting their weaknesses.
If you’d like, specify the game or format (main series, Pokémon GO, or a specific generation), and I can tailor recommended counters, including example Pokémon and movesets.
