Pokemon GO Zacian Raid Guide: Best Counters & Shiny Chance

Pokemon GO Zacian Raid Guide: Best Counters & Shiny Chance

The legendary Fairy-type Pokemon Zacian is returning to Pokemon GO raids from November 27 to December 3, 2024. Players will have another chance to catch this powerful Galar region legendary. Want to add this monster to your collection? Here’s our detailed Zacian Raid guide to help you out.

Pokemon GO Zacian Stats

Zacian is a Fairy-type Pokemon with impressive stats that make it a valuable addition to your collection, especially for Master League battles. Here are its key statistics:

Stats Value
Attack 254
Defense 236
Stamina 192
Max CP (Level 40) 3,829
Max CP (Level 50) 4,329
Raid CP Range 2,100 – 2,188
Weather Boosted CP 2,625 – 2,735

Zacian Weaknesses and Resistances in Pokemon GO

As a pure Fairy-type Pokemon, Zacian has a straightforward set of weaknesses and resistances that you should keep in mind when battling. These are:

Weaknesses (160% damage):

  • Poison-type
  • Steel-type

Resistances:

  • Bug-type (63% damage)
  • Dark-type (63% damage)
  • Fighting-type (63% damage)
  • Dragon-type (39% damage)

Zacian Best Counters in Pokemon GO

For the most effective raid battle, you’ll want to focus on using Steel and Poison-type Pokemon. Here are the top counters with their recommended movesets:

Pokemon Fast Move Charged Move
Mega Rayquaza Air Slash  Dragon Ascent 
Mega Gengar
Mega Gengar
Lick Sludge Bomb
Beedrill
Mega Beedrill
Poison Jab Sludge Bomb
Shadow Excadrill
Excadrill
Metal Claw Iron Head
Nihilego
Nihilego
Poison Jab Sludge Bomb
Origin Forme Dialga
Dialga
Metal Claw  Iron Head
Primal Gourdon
Groudon
Mud Shot  Precipice Blades 

How to Catch Zacian in Pokemon GO

Catching Zacian presents a significant challenge due to its low base catch rate of just 2%. Your best strategy starts with using Golden Razz Berries on every throw. When throwing, patience is key – wait for Zacian to finish its attack animation before attempting your throw, and always aim for Excellent curveball throws.

For a successful raid battle, you’ll want to gather at least 5-6 Pokemon GO trainers with counters, though experienced players with high-level Pokemon can potentially complete it with four people. If your group is using lower-level Pokemon, aim for 6-8 trainers to ensure a comfortable victory within the time limit. This raid isn’t recommended for small groups or solo attempts due to Zacian’s high defense and stamina stats.

Can Zacian Be Shiny?

pokemon go shiny zacian
Image Credit: Niantic (via Pokemon GO, Edited by: Ash Singh/Moyens I/O)

Yes, Shiny Zacian is available in Pokemon GO! The Shiny version features lighter body fur with blue braids and a tail, distinguishing it from its regular form. The Shiny chance for legendary raids is approximately 1 in 20 (5%).

To maximize your chances of getting a Shiny Zacian, try to participate in as many raids as possible during this period, especially during the Raid Hour on Wednesday, November 27. Remember to save some raid passes and coordinate with other trainers in your area, as Zacian requires multiple players to defeat effectively.