Top 15 best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet tier list

The best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet are not just powerful fighters, they represent the ultimate blend of strategy, rarity, and stunning Japanese-inspired designs. Whether you’re a competitive trainer seeking the perfect team or a collector hunting for the rarest creatures, understanding which Pokémon excel in Scarlet and Violet is key to mastering the Paldea region.

At Japan Figure, we’ve compiled this comprehensive top 15 tier list to guide trainers worldwide in selecting the strongest, most versatile, and visually captivating Pokémon. Read on to discover which Pokémon dominate the battlefield and why they are considered the best Pokémon in Violet.

Top 1: Terapagos

Terapagos stands as one of the most fascinating additions to the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet roster, making waves for both its mythical origin and versatile battle presence. As a Rock/Fairy type, it brings a unique typing combination rarely seen in competitive play, offering a mix of resilience and offensive power. Its lore-inspired design, rooted in celestial and gem-like aesthetics, immediately caught the attention of fans around the world. Beyond aesthetics, Terapagos’ standout ability, Mycelium Might, allows it to influence battle tempo in ways few others can, making it a favorite in both raids and structured battles.

What makes Terapagos especially appealing and the most popular Pokémon is its balance of power and defensive utility. It boasts a remarkable Attack stat that pairs well with strong signature moves, while its Fairy typing gives it the upper hand against common threats like Dragon-types. Trainers also value its rarity, as this Pokémon can only be obtained through special in-game events or future expansions, increasing its desirability for collectors and competitive battlers alike. All these qualities place Terapagos at the very top of any best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet tier list, blending myth, strength, and exclusivity.

• Type: Rock/Fairy
• Strongest move: Biting Fangs
• Best ability: Mycelium Might
• Best stat: Attack
• Location: Deep mountain areas (special event-based appearance)
• Weaknesses: Steel, Water, Ground
• Rarity: Mythical, event-exclusive

Top 2: Miraidon

Miraidon represents the futuristic side of Pokémon Violet and has quickly earned its place among the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet. With its Electric/Dragon typing, Miraidon brings both offensive firepower and strategic versatility to any team. Its exclusive move, Electro Drift, is not only powerful but also visually stunning, making battles feel cinematic. The ability Hadron Engine further strengthens Miraidon’s Electric-type moves by summoning Electric Terrain, creating immediate synergy with offensive setups. For many trainers, this ability makes Miraidon one of the most dependable Pokémon in high-level battles.

Beyond raw power, Miraidon’s futuristic dragon design appeals to fans who love modern, high-tech aesthetics in Pokémon. Its dominance in competitive formats has made it a go-to choice for players who want a reliable sweeper with high Speed and Special Attack. Since it’s only available in Pokémon Violet, Miraidon also carries an exclusivity factor, driving its popularity among collectors and fans worldwide. Players often combine its legendary strength with special bonuses from Pokémon Scarlet and Violet mystery gift codes to unlock hidden rewards that enhance gameplay even further.

• Type: Electric/Dragon
• Strongest move: Electro Drift
• Best ability: Hadron Engine (activates Electric Terrain)
• Best stat: Speed
• Location: Legendary encounter in Pokémon Violet
• Weaknesses: Ground, Ice, Dragon, Fairy
• Rarity: Legendary, Violet-exclusive

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Top 3: Koraidon

If Miraidon is the face of Pokémon Violet, then Koraidon is the fierce emblem of Pokémon Scarlet. As a Fighting/Dragon type, Koraidon blends raw physical strength with ancient, primal energy, making it a staple among the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet. Its signature ability, Orichalcum Pulse, boosts its Attack stat while summoning harsh sunlight, creating devastating combinations with Fire-type allies. Koraidon’s signature moves, such as Mountain Blaze, deliver overwhelming physical damage, positioning it as one of the scariest sweepers in the Paldea region.

Koraidon’s appeal extends beyond battle mechanics; it embodies the theme of tradition versus the future, contrasting Miraidon’s sleek design with an ancient, dinosaur-like presence. Fans of Pokémon Scarlet adore Koraidon not just for its battle dominance but also for the cultural symbolism it represents. As one of the franchise’s cover legends, Koraidon enjoys unmatched popularity among collectors, and its Fighting/Dragon typing ensures it remains relevant in both competitive and casual play. Its combination of lore, exclusivity, and power explains why Koraidon firmly belongs among the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet.

• Type: Fighting/Dragon
• Strongest move: Mountain Blaze
• Best ability: Orichalcum Pulse (boosts Attack + sunlight)
• Best stat: Attack
• Location: Legendary encounter in Pokémon Scarlet
• Weaknesses: Flying, Psychic, Fairy, Ice, Dragon
• Rarity: Legendary, Scarlet-exclusive

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Top 4: Iron Hands

Iron Hands is a powerhouse Fighting/Electric Pokémon that has captured the attention of competitive players and collectors alike. Known for its raw strength and impressive durability, Iron Hands thrives in close-quarters battles where its signature moves can deal devastating damage. Its ability, Quark Drive, increases its Speed or Special Attack under certain conditions, allowing it to turn the tide of a fight. Trainers appreciate Iron Hands for its combination of offensive potential and tankiness, making it a reliable choice for any well-rounded team.

Beyond its stats, Iron Hands has a striking mechanical design inspired by cybernetic elements, giving it a futuristic, industrial charm. Its presence in raids and story battles is often intimidating for opponents, while its rarity makes it a prized catch for collectors worldwide. With its blend of power, utility, and distinctive aesthetics, Iron Hands easily earns its place among the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet.

• Type: Fighting/Electric
• Strongest move: Thunder Punch
• Best ability: Quark Drive
• Best stat: HP
• Location: Power plant / special encounters
• Weaknesses: Psychic, Flying, Fairy
• Rarity: Rare

Top 5: Iron Valiant

Iron Valiant is a sleek Fairy/Fighting Pokémon that combines agility with striking offensive capabilities. Its unique typing allows it to counter common threats while maintaining excellent versatility in battles. Its signature move, Aura Wheel, delivers rapid, high-powered strikes that can overwhelm opponents quickly. Quark Drive, its special ability, further boosts performance by enhancing Speed, giving Iron Valiant the edge in fast-paced encounters. Competitive trainers love its balance of speed and power, making it one of the standout Pokémon in both casual and tournament play.

Its futuristic yet elegant design has made Iron Valiant a favorite among fans who appreciate Pokémon that are both powerful and visually appealing. Rare in the wild and often sought after for collections, Iron Valiant embodies the qualities that define the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet: speed, power, and unique aesthetics. Its combination of fighting prowess and collectible value ensures it remains a top choice for trainers worldwide.

• Type: Fairy/Fighting
• Strongest move: Aura Wheel
• Best ability: Quark Drive
• Best stat: Speed
• Location: Tunnels / special encounters
• Weaknesses: Steel, Poison, Fairy

Top 6: Ogerpon (Grass)

Ogerpon in its Grass form is a mythical Pokémon that blends defensive resilience with strategic versatility. Its Grass typing gives it a natural edge over Water-types and allows it to support team strategies that rely on terrain manipulation. Its signature move, Thorny Horn, can pierce through defensive Pokémon, while its ability Intreped Sword boosts its effectiveness in battle. Trainers value Ogerpon for its balanced stats and adaptability, making it a solid choice in various formats including story battles and multiplayer challenges.

Fans are drawn to Ogerpon not just for its battle utility, but also for its unique mythical design, which incorporates plant-like features and a mystical aura. Its rarity and exclusive event availability make it a coveted addition for collectors. Combining aesthetic appeal with powerful combat abilities, Ogerpon clearly ranks as one of the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet, offering both strategic depth and collectible value.

• Type: Grass
• Strongest move: Thorny Horn
• Best ability: Intreped Sword
• Best stat: Defense
• Location: Mythical event-based encounters
• Weaknesses: Fire, Ice, Poison
• Rarity: Mythical

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Top 7: Roaring Moon

Roaring Moon is a Dragon/Dark Pokémon that combines ferocious power with incredible speed, making it one of the most feared opponents in competitive battles. Its signature move, Dragon Darts, allows it to strike multiple times in a single turn, creating enormous offensive pressure. The ability Protosynthesis boosts its highest stat when exposed to sunlight or a Booster Energy, adding flexibility and strategic depth in various battle formats. For trainers, Roaring Moon’s combination of offensive speed and tactical versatility makes it a reliable and thrilling choice in both casual play and high-level competitions.

Beyond its stats, Roaring Moon’s design emphasizes agility and intimidation, resembling a sleek, dragon-like warrior poised for attack. Fans worldwide appreciate its dynamic aesthetic, blending classic Dragon-type elegance with modern flair. Its rarity in the game further enhances its appeal to collectors, solidifying Roaring Moon’s place as a must-have Pokémon in any best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet team. For trading card fans, its value also parallels the most expensive Japanese Scarlet and Violet cards, making it desirable both in-game and in the TCG market.

• Type: Dragon/Dark
• Strongest move: Dragon Darts
• Best ability: Protosynthesis
• Best stat: Speed
• Location: High cliffs / rare spawns
• Weaknesses: Ice, Fairy, Dragon
• Rarity: Legendary

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Top 8: Flutter Mane

Flutter Mane, a Ghost/Fairy Pokémon, is both elegant and deadly in battle. Its signature move, Moongeist Beam, bypasses abilities that would normally protect opponents, making it extremely effective against defensive Pokémon. The Protosynthesis ability further enhances Flutter Mane’s Special Attack or Speed under certain conditions, allowing it to dominate in a variety of scenarios. Trainers value its high Special Attack stat, which lets it serve as a powerful sweeper in team compositions.

What sets Flutter Mane apart is its ethereal, ghostly design that appeals strongly to fans of Japanese aesthetics and mystical creatures. Its rarity and competitive relevance make it highly sought after for collectors and battlers alike. Combining strategic depth with visual appeal, Flutter Mane exemplifies the qualities that place it among the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet.

• Type: Ghost/Fairy
• Strongest move: Moongeist Beam
• Best ability: Protosynthesis
• Best stat: Special Attack
• Location: Ghost mounds / special encounters
• Weaknesses: Ghost, Steel, Dark
• Rarity: Legendary

Top 9: Palafin

Palafin, particularly in its Hero Form, is a Water-type Pokémon renowned for its speed and adaptability in battle. Its signature move, Jet Punch, delivers fast, high-priority attacks, allowing it to outpace most opponents. The ability Zero to Hero transforms Palafin from its weaker base form into an unstoppable powerhouse in battle, giving trainers the flexibility to deploy it strategically. With top-tier Speed and Attack stats, Palafin excels as both a frontline attacker and a counter to common threats.

Fans are drawn to Palafin not just for its combat abilities but also for its striking design inspired by heroic marine creatures. Its rarity in the wild and relevance in competitive play make it a prized Pokémon for collectors and team builders alike. This combination of visual charm, strategic utility, and rarity secures Palafin’s position among the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet.

• Type: Water
• Strongest move: Jet Punch
• Best ability: Zero to Hero
• Best stat: Speed
• Location: Sea caves / special encounters
• Weaknesses: Electric, Grass
• Rarity: Rare

Top 10: Chien-Pao

Chien-Pao is a Dark/Ice Pokémon that combines speed and precision, making it a formidable threat in battles. Its signature move, Beads of Ruin, lowers the target’s defenses while delivering high damage, allowing Chien-Pao to act as an efficient sweeper. The ability Sword of Ruin reduces the Defense of all Pokémon on the battlefield, providing a strategic advantage in both single and double battles. Trainers appreciate Chien-Pao for its offensive prowess and ability to exploit opponent weaknesses, making it a key pick for competitive play.

Its striking design, inspired by agile feline warriors, captures the attention of fans around the world. Chien-Pao’s combination of elegance, speed, and rare availability enhances its appeal to collectors and competitive trainers alike. With its balanced offensive stats and unique role on teams, Chien-Pao easily ranks among the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet.

• Type: Dark/Ice
• Strongest move: Beads of Ruin
• Best ability: Sword of Ruin
• Best stat: Attack
• Location: Snowfields / rare spawns
• Weaknesses: Fighting, Steel, Fire, Rock
• Rarity: Rare

Top 11: Gholdengo

Gholdengo is a Ghost/Steel Pokémon that excels in both offensive and defensive roles, making it a versatile choice for trainers. Its signature move, Make It Snappy, allows it to hit hard while bypassing certain defensive abilities, making it especially effective against resilient foes. The ability Good as Gold provides immunity to status conditions, giving Gholdengo an edge in longer battles where status effects can turn the tide. Trainers value its high Special Attack and unique typing, which make it a reliable option for various team strategies.

Gholdengo’s design blends spectral and metallic elements, creating an iconic aesthetic that resonates with fans who enjoy unique Japanese-inspired Pokémon designs. Its rarity and strategic relevance make it a sought-after Pokémon for collectors and battlers alike. These qualities ensure that Gholdengo ranks as one of the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet, combining power, utility, and visual appeal.

• Type: Ghost/Steel
• Strongest move: Make It Snappy
• Best ability: Good as Gold
• Best stat: Special Attack
• Location: Metallic caves / special encounters
• Weaknesses: Ground, Fire
• Rarity: Very Rare

Top 12: Tinkaton

Tinkaton is a Fairy/Steel Pokémon that has quickly become a fan favorite for its combination of utility and charm. Its signature move, Gigaton Hammer, delivers powerful strikes that can turn the tide of battle in a single hit. The ability Mold Breaker allows Tinkaton to bypass opponent abilities that normally reduce damage, giving it an advantage in strategic matchups. Trainers value its balanced stats, particularly its Attack and Defense, which make it both a reliable attacker and durable supporter on many teams.

Tinkaton’s design is playful yet formidable, blending mechanical elements with whimsical Fairy traits, appealing to fans of Japanese-inspired aesthetics. Its rarity and competitive relevance make it highly sought after by collectors and battlers alike. With its combination of power, strategy, and unique appearance, Tinkaton solidly belongs among the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet.

• Type: Fairy/Steel
• Strongest move: Gigaton Hammer
• Best ability: Mold Breaker
• Best stat: Attack
• Location: Workshop / rare spawns
• Weaknesses: Fire, Ground
• Rarity: Rare

Top 13: Annihilape

Annihilape, the evolved form of Primeape, is a Ghost/Fighting Pokémon that excels in offensive roles. Its signature move, Rage Fist, gains power as it lands consecutive attacks, making it devastating in prolonged battles. Its ability Defiant boosts Attack when stats are lowered, giving it a comeback potential in tough fights. Trainers favor Annihilape for its high Attack and versatility, making it a reliable choice for competitive and casual teams alike.

Annihilape’s design is fierce and intimidating, capturing the spirit of vengeance and raw power. Its combination of offensive dominance and unique typing ensures it remains highly relevant in battle strategies. Collectors also prize Annihilape for its rarity and evolution lore, cementing its place among the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet.

• Type: Ghost/Fighting
• Strongest move: Rage Fist
• Best ability: Defiant
• Best stat: Attack
• Location: Evolving from Primeape / special encounters
• Weaknesses: Flying, Psychic, Ghost, Fairy
• Rarity: Rare

Top 14: Baxcalibur

Baxcalibur is a Dragon/Ice Pokémon known for its colossal strength and striking design. Its signature move, Glaive Rush, delivers powerful consecutive attacks, allowing it to overwhelm opponents quickly. The ability Thermal Exchange boosts Attack when hit by Fire moves, adding an extra layer of strategy. Trainers appreciate Baxcalibur for its high offensive stats and ability to counter many common Pokémon types effectively.

Its design is inspired by icy dragons and armored warriors, making it visually captivating for fans of Japanese-inspired aesthetics. Baxcalibur’s rare availability and strong competitive performance make it a top contender in the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet rankings. Its combination of offensive prowess, strategic depth, and aesthetic appeal ensures it remains a favorite among trainers and collectors alike.

• Type: Dragon/Ice
• Strongest move: Glaive Rush
• Best ability: Thermal Exchange
• Best stat: Attack
• Location: Mountain caves / rare spawns
• Weaknesses: Dragon, Fairy, Steel, Rock
• Rarity: Rare

Top 15: Houndstone

Houndstone is a Ghost-type Pokémon that stands out for its utility and unique design. Its signature move, Soul Bolt, deals consistent damage while exploiting opponent weaknesses. The ability Stakeout allows it to deal additional damage when opponents switch out, giving Houndstone a strategic edge in team battles. Trainers value its high Attack and Speed, making it a reliable finisher and tactical choice in competitive settings.

Fans are drawn to Houndstone for its eerie, graveyard-inspired design, which adds personality and charm to its combat effectiveness. Its rarity and relevance in PvP and story modes make it a prized Pokémon for collectors and competitive trainers alike. With its combination of utility, offensive capability, and aesthetic appeal, Houndstone earns its spot among the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet.

• Type: Ghost
• Strongest move: Soul Bolt
• Best ability: Stakeout
• Best stat: Attack
• Location: Graveyards / special encounters
• Weaknesses: Ghost, Dark
• Rarity: Rare

FAQs - People also ask about best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet 

Before wrapping up, many trainers have common questions about building the strongest teams and understanding Pokémon types in Scarlet and Violet. To help you make informed decisions and optimize your gameplay, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet.

What is the best Pokemon type in Pokemon Violet?

In Pokémon Violet, Electric/Dragon types like Miraidon excel due to their speed and versatile moves. Dragon types are strong against many others, while Electric provides coverage against Water types. Combining these strengths makes Pokémon like Miraidon ideal for both competitive and story battles.

What is the best team for Pokemon Scarlet?

A balanced Scarlet team often includes Koraidon (Fighting/Dragon) for raw power, Annihilape (Ghost/Fighting) for offense, Palafin (Water) for speed, Roaring Moon (Dragon/Dark) for sweep potential, and Tinkaton (Fairy/Steel) for utility and coverage. Adjustments may be made based on playstyle and specific battle formats.

Who is the rarest Pokémon in Pokémon Scarlet?

Terapagos is considered one of the rarest Pokémon in Scarlet due to its mythical status and event-based availability. Its combination of exclusive moves, high Attack stats, and unique design make it highly coveted among collectors and competitive trainers alike.

Exploring the best Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet reveals a rich mix of strategy, rarity, and captivating designs inspired by Japanese culture. From legendary cover Pokémon like Koraidon and Miraidon to rare mythicals such as Terapagos and Ogerpon, each Pokémon offers unique abilities, stats, and roles that can elevate any team. Whether you are building a competitive lineup, completing your Pokédex, or collecting visually stunning creatures, these top-tier Pokémon provide both power and aesthetic appeal.