Ultimate Guide to Palkia Raids in Pokemon Go: Weaknesses and Top Counters

Palkia is widely regarded as one of the most formidable Legendary Pokémon in Pokémon Go, making it a challenging opponent for trainers. In this guide, we will explore optimal counters to help you maximize your chances of successfully defeating this powerful creature.

As the mascot of Pokémon Pearl, Palkia was introduced in Generation IV, quickly establishing itself as an emblematic figure within the franchise due to its impressive dual typing and extraordinary strength. Its notoriety has only grown since its arrival in Pokémon Go, particularly with the inclusion of its Origin Forme, which ranks among the top three strongest Pokémon in the Master League.

To enhance your battle strategy against Palkia, understanding its weaknesses is essential. Let’s delve into the specifics of how to conquer this Legendary.

Understanding Palkia’s Weaknesses

Palkia’s dual typing as a Water/Dragon Pokémon renders it particularly vulnerable to Dragon and Fairy-type moves. This creates opportunities for trainers to utilize specific counters effectively during encounters.

Conversely, Palkia also boasts various resistances that trainers should be wary of. Notably, it’s crucial to steer clear of Steel-type moves and especially avoid using Fire and Water-type attacks, as Palkia possesses a double resistance against these types.

Top Counters to Palkia

Here’s a selection of the most effective counters to deploy against Palkia during raid battles:

POKEMON	BEST MOVESET	SPRITE
Mega Rayquaza	Dragon Tail & Breaking Swipe
Mega Garchomp	Dragon Tail & Outrage
Shadow Salamence	Dragon Tail & Outrage
Shadow Dragonite	Dragon Tail & Outrage
Origin Forme Dialga	Dragon Breath & Roar of Time
Mega Latios	Dragon Breath & Dragon Claw
Gardevoir	Charm & Dazzling Gleam
Haxorus	Dragon Tail & Breaking Swipe
skeptical	Fury Cutter & Breaking Swipe
Gyarados	Dragon Tail & Outrage

This collection features a diverse array of Pokémon, including Mega Evolutions, Shadows, and more accessible options for various trainers. If you lack these specific counters or their alternative forms, simply utilize your strongest Dragon and Fairy Pokémon to exploit Palkia’s vulnerabilities, ensuring your team is adequately leveled and equipped with appropriate movesets.

Acquiring Palkia in Pokémon Go

To catch Palkia, trainers must engage in 5-Star Raid battles, where defeating it is the only means of securing this Legendary. Fortunately, Palkia will reappear as a 5-Star Raid boss during the upcoming Dual Destiny rotations, specifically from January 4, 2025, to January 16, 2025.

Additionally, Palkia will feature in two Raid Hours: the first on January 9, 2025, followed by another on January 15, 2025, after which it will transition out in favor of Deoxys.

Upon successfully conquering Palkia, trainers will receive Premier Balls to attempt a catch, with the number of balls awarded based on individual performance in battle.

For increased catch rates, consider utilizing Golden Razz Berries and executing Excellent Curveball Throws to boost your chances significantly.

Evolving Palkia to Origin Form Palkia

It’s important to note that Palkia cannot be evolved into its Origin Forme in Pokémon Go. To obtain this variant, trainers must capture it post-battle. Although Origin Forme Palkia was previously available in November 2024 raids, it is currently unavailable, and players must await its return.

Palkia Origin Forme — Source: NIANTIC/DEXERTO

Palkia’s CP Metrics

Similar to all Raid Bosses, Palkia’s CP during a raid will differ from what you might capture post-defeat. Various weather conditions may also influence its CP.

Raid Boss CP	54,793
CP range upon capture	2190 – 2280
Possible CP range in Rain/Windy weather	2737 – 2850
Max CP for Palkia (Level 50)	4512

Palkia’s Statistics and Moves

As a dual Water/Dragon-type Pokémon, Palkia possesses the following statistics:

ATTACK	DEFENSE	STAMINA	CP
280	215	189	4512

Quick Moves

Dragon Breath (Dragon/STAB)
Dragon Tail (Dragon/STAB)

Charged Moves

Aqua Tail (Water/STAB)
Fire Blast (Fire)
Hydro Pump (Water/STAB)
Draco Meteor (Dragon/STAB)

Is Shiny Palkia Available?

Yes, Shiny Palkia is available in Pokémon Go. This variation was introduced during the Ultra Unlock Part 2: Space event in August 2021 and is recognizable by its pale pink hue, contrasting sharply with its typical white body. Additionally, its neck, shoulder, tail, and paw details transition from purple to burgundy.

While the likelihood of encountering a Shiny Legendary remains slim, participating in multiple Palkia Raids increases your chances of obtaining this dazzling variant.

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