In the world of Pokemon GO, certain Pokémon are classified as Western Hemisphere exclusives. This classification means they can only be encountered in the Western Hemisphere, presenting a challenge for players in other regions who seek to add them to their collections. Players on the opposite side of the globe can obtain these Pokémon through trading or by traveling to these specific areas.
This article delves into the Pokémon that are exclusives to the Western Hemisphere in Pokémon GO, evaluating their battle viability and ranking them from least to most effective. These rankings reflect the current meta and the capabilities of each Pokémon’s moveset, so they may evolve as the game’s dynamics change.
Evaluation and Rankings of Pokémon GO Western Hemisphere Exclusives
5) Basculin (Blue-stripe Form)
Basculin, hailing from Generation V, is a mono Water-type Pokémon known for having two distinct forms. Given its dual nature, it’s understandable that the Blue-stripe variant became one of the Western Hemisphere exclusives.
However, when it comes to the Pokémon GO competitive scene, Basculin falls short. Its moveset primarily consists of Water-type attacks, complemented only by the Normal-type Fast Attack, Tackle. This narrow range of options makes it a less appealing choice for players, especially considering its defensive stats that don’t hold up well in battles.
4) Paldean Tauros (Aqua Breed)
From Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Paldean Tauros (Aqua Breed) is one of three regional Tauros forms. This Pokémon features a Water/Fighting typing, also marking its status among the Western Hemisphere exclusives.
It boasts a solid Charged Attack option in Aqua Jet, making it a decent user of STAB moves. Coupled with the Fast Attack, Double Kick, it can initiate attacks swiftly. Nevertheless, its overall performance is hindered by the absence of a Fighting-type Charged move and lackluster stats.
3) Lunatone
Lunatone, a Rock/Psychic-type Pokémon, was introduced during Generation III, sharing the spotlight with its counterpart, Solrock. Lunatone is unique to the Western Hemisphere while Solrock is found in the Eastern regions.
This Pokémon excels with its Fast Attack, Psywave, and has effective Charged move options like Rock Slide and Psychic. However, its defensive weaknesses and lower defense stats can be detrimental in competitive play.
2) Blacephalon
Blacephalon, a Fire/Ghost-type Ultra Beast introduced in Generation VII, stands out as the only Ultra Beast under the banner of Western Hemisphere exclusives. Its powerful attack capabilities make it a desirable Pokémon to include.
Blacephalon’s repertoire of Fire and Ghost moves retains effectiveness due to its high attack stat. It leverages the Fast Attack Incinerate along with Shadow Ball as a Charged Attack, enabling it to take down opponents efficiently. However, its high CP value restricts its usability primarily to the Master League, where it faces tough competition against Pokémon that can exploit its defensive frailties.
1) West Sea Gastrodon (and Shellos)
Debuting in Generation IV, both West Sea Shellos and its evolved form, Gastrodon, are remarkable examples of Western Hemisphere exclusives. The East Sea variant is restricted to the Eastern Hemisphere, highlighting the significance of this particular variant.
Gastrodon serves as an excellent choice for a defensive lead and support in the Great and Ultra Leagues, with its unique Water/Ground typing providing only a single vulnerability to Grass-type moves. It can effectively bait shields using Body Slam as a Normal-type Charged Attack and dish out damage with Mud Slap as a STAB Fast Attack.