In the realm of Pokemon GO, players in the Eastern Hemisphere are privy to exclusive Pokémon that are not available elsewhere. Some of these exclusives showcase alternate forms with appearances that vary, while others, like specific species, are native exclusively to this region.
This article delves into the exclusive Pokémon found within the Eastern Hemisphere of Pokemon GO, assessing and ranking them based on their utility in various gameplay modes including PvE (Player versus Environment) and PvP (Player versus Player). It’s important to note that these rankings are reflective of the current meta and may fluctuate with future updates and events.
Evaluation of Pokemon GO Eastern Hemisphere Exclusives
5. Basculin (Red-striped Form)
Basculin, a Water-type Pokémon from Generation V, stands as one of the Eastern Hemisphere exclusives. However, its performance in both PvP and PvE battles is relatively lackluster.
This underwhelming performance is attributed to several factors. Its reliance on STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) for Water-type moves is limiting, compounded by the fact that its only other move, Tackle, falls short in versatility. Additionally, its subpar defensive stats increase its vulnerability to quick KOs, making it hard to justify its use.
4. Paldean Tauros (Blaze Breed)
The Paldean Tauros (Blaze Breed), a regional variant introduced in Generation IX, falls short of its potential compared to its counterparts. While this Fire/Fighting-type boasts a powerful STAB Fast Attack in Double Kick, its overall effectiveness in both game modes is minimal.
Despite having a decent speed for generating Charged Attacks, its offensive options often lack impact, coupled with mediocre overall stats which limit its viability in competitive play.
3. Solrock
First introduced in Generation III, Solrock serves as a Psychic-type partner to Lunatone and is another Pokémon exclusive to the Eastern Hemisphere. In PvE battles, it demonstrates a dependable performance with access to STAB Psychic-type moves like Psywave and Confusion.
In PvP, Solrock can utilize its Rock-type move, Rock Slide, further enhancing its attack repertoire. However, its effectiveness is hindered by its vulnerability to prevalent types such as Water, Dark, and Grass, impacting its strategic viability.
2. Stakataka
Stakataka, a Rock/Steel type and unique Ultra Beast from Generation VII, stands out as the sole Ultra Beast exclusive to the Eastern Hemisphere. With impressive stats, particularly in Attack and Defense, it is best utilized with its Rock-type STAB moves.
The optimal setup features Rock Throw as a Fast Attack and Stone Edge as a Charged Attack, allowing it to claim a role as a formidable Rock-type presence. Nevertheless, its Steel typing comes with significant weaknesses to Fighting and Ground types, which may deter its usage in competitive settings.
1. East Sea Gastrodon (and Shellos)
Shellos and its evolution, Gastrodon, made their debut in Generation IV within the Sinnoh games, featuring two distinct forms: West Sea and East Sea. The East Sea variant has made its mark as a notable exclusive in Pokémon GO within the Eastern Hemisphere.
In terms of competitive play, Gastrodon has proven itself as a valuable asset in both the Great and Ultra Leagues, exhibiting excellent tactical potential. While its stats may not shine, its Water/Ground typing results in a singular weakness to Grass types, making it manageable with careful planning. Although its offensive capabilities are not exceptional in PvE, astute players can leverage its defensive strengths effectively.