Shadow Zapdos Pokemon Go guide: Weaknesses, counters & moveset
Niantic / The Pokemon CompanyShadow Zapdos is returning to Pokemon Go, giving players the opportunity to catch the Legendary bird for themselves. Fortunately for you, we’ve got all the details you need to add Shadow Zapdos to your Pokedex.
December is a huge month for Pokemon Go players with the Adamant Time event approaching, new Pokemon teased, Raids to complete, and a brand new NPC to meet. However, amongst all the new elements to enjoy is the highly anticipated return of Shadow Zapdos.
So, if you want to add this powerful Electric/Flying-type to your team, then you’ll first need to best it in battle. Of course, doing so can be rather tricky if you don’t know Shadow Zapdos’ strengths and weaknesses. Luckily, we’ve got you covered.
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How to catch Shadow Zapdos Pokemon Go
To catch a Shadow Zapdos in Pokemon Go you’ll need to beat it in a 5-star Shadow Raid, which will take place on the weekends of December 2023.
Due to it’s Shadowy nature, the weekends are the only time you can catch this Legendary Pokemon, so you’ll have to be quick.
Shadow Zapdos Moveset Pokemon Go
Shadow Zapdos is capable of learning eight moves. These range from Electric-type, Flying-type, Normal-type, and Rock-type. All of Shadow Zapdos’ moves are listed below:
Fast Moves
- Thunder Shock
- Charge Beam
Charged Moves
- Drill Peck
- Ancient Power
- Thunder
- Thunderbolt
- Zap Cannon
- Frustration
Shadow Zapdos Pokemon Go weaknesses
As an Electric/Flying-type, Shadow Zapdos has a few obvious weaknesses you will wish to exploit during the Raid:
- Ice
- Rock
It’s worth noting that you’ll need to be careful as Shadow Zapdos will take less damage when you use Bug, Fighting, Flying, Grass, Ground, or Steel. So try to avoid those types.
Shadow Zapdos Counters
Shadow Zapdos also has several counters you should exploit in Pokemon Go:
| Pokemon | Fast Move | Charged Move |
|---|---|---|
 |
Powder Snow | Avalanche |
 |
Smack Down | Rock Wrecker |
 |
Ice Fang | Avalanche |
 |
Smack Down | Rock Slide |
 |
Smack Down | Rock Slide |
 |
Smack Down | Stone Edge |
So, there you have it: everything you need to know about Shadow Zapdos and how you can best defeat it. Make sure you check out our Pokemon Go page for all the latest information and guides:
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