Ah, the Dark-type Pokemon. The coolest type of Pokemon. It’s not an element like Fire or Water, but rather dark energy.
Actually, in Japan, the Dark-type is translated as “evil.”
However, we wholeheartedly embrace and stand by our Dark-type Pokemon in this household. They possess a level of coolness that can rival even Shadow the Hedgehog, but their appeal goes far beyond that.
They are skilled combatants with impressive offensive abilities and a plethora of distinctive tactics at their disposal.
While some individuals may have questionable intentions, many others tend to be mischievous or simply misunderstood.
Anyway, who doesn’t love that wonderfully wicked feeling? Presenting the crème de la crème of Dark-type Pokemon.
Here Are Some Of The Best Dark-type Pokemon
25. Morpeko
Every Pokemon region needs a companion that captures the hearts of trainers, and Morpeko perfectly fits that role in Generation Eight.
However, just like Mimikyu, there’s a hidden side to this bean-shaped ball of malice. Morpeko comes in two forms, distinguished by its split color scheme.
It’s worth noting that this Pokemon is the main companion of your rival, Marnie, in Sword and Shield.
In addition, Morpeko possesses the unique move Aura Wheel, which alters its type based on its current form.
While its stats may not be its most impressive feature, this Pokémon more than compensates with its incredibly versatile moveset. However, Morpeko is better known for its unique qualities rather than its strength.
24. Overqwil
There are many fish in the sea, but Overqwil is definitely one to avoid crossing paths with.
Presented as a new form of Hisuian Qwifish in Pokemon Legends: Arceus, this Dark-type Pokemon and Poison-type displays a highly assertive nature, posing challenges for those venturing into the depths of the ocean.
Despite the formidable nature of Overqwil as an opponent, having one on your team for the next expedition would be highly beneficial.
Similar to other Hisuian Pokemon, the evolution of Hisuian Qwilfish into Overqwil is triggered by using a particular move in a specific style.
To achieve the desired outcome, it is recommended to utilize Barb Barrage in the strong style a minimum of 20 times. With its diverse range of moves, Overqwil is more than capable of defeating adversaries.
An intriguing aspect of its skill set is Poison Point, which has the potential to inflict poison on the opponent with a 30 percent chance following their physical attack.
23. Absol
Absol is widely adored by fans, even though it is known as a Disaster Pokemon. It’s really compassionate, actually, capable of detecting impending natural disasters and alerting people with its horn.
However, certain Pokedex entries portray it in a slightly less favorable light, suggesting that it has been the cause of unfortunate events, leading people to develop a negative perception of it. Perhaps that’s why it seldom ventures beyond the mountains.
Contrary to popular belief, Absol is actually a great addition to any Pokemon team. Absol possesses an impressive Attack stat and is capable of delivering a powerful blow in battles, particularly when it has utilized Swords Dance.
Regrettably, Absol has a greater fondness for its mega form, as its base form tends to be somewhat underwhelming.
22. Weavile
Weavile, a beloved Pokemon hailing from the Sinnoh region, showcases a captivating fusion of Ice and Dark-types, which are not as commonly seen in the series.
Both of them don’t receive enough recognition, to be honest. Based on the Pokedex, Weavile are known to hunt in packs, resembling unique two-legged wolves.
These Dark-type Pokemon have a fascinating way of communicating with each other by leaving scratch marks on trees and boulders.
Weavile excels in its Speed stat, allowing it to consistently strike first and grant you the upper hand.
Additionally, its impressive Attack stat, paired with its remarkable speed, grants it the ability to swiftly and effectively engage in battles. Just a word of caution, Weavile’s defenses are quite fragile.
21. Mabosstiff
In Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Mabosstiff is a prominent character in the Path of Legends storyline.
Together with Arven, you embark on a quest to collect Herba Mystica by battling formidable Titan Pokemon.
This elderly canine may not excel in competitive battles, but the bond between Arven and his Mabosstiff creates one of the most heartfelt storylines in the series.
If you’re interested in having a companion like the researcher and his hound, you have a couple of options. You can raise a Maschiff to level 30 or try your luck catching one in the wild near Casseroya Lake or Socarrat Trail.
The special ability of this Pokemon, Guard Dog, ensures that it cannot be frightened away from a battle by moves like Roar or Whirlwind. This can be extremely useful when attempting to capture elusive Pokemon.
20. Obstagoon
The regional form of Zigzagoon and Linoone in Sword and Shield’s Generation 3 received a much-needed update.
However, Obstagoon, the latest addition to the evolutionary line, takes it even further. Galarian Zigzagoon can be found on the first few routes in Sword and Shield, and Obstagoon is a reliable companion that can support your team throughout your entire adventure.
The stats of this are quite well-balanced, with a slight emphasis on defense. However, its impressive abilities allow it to greatly enhance its Attack stat using a variety of methods, resulting in a formidable offensive Pokemon that also boasts decent defenses. It also includes some utility moves if that’s what you’re looking for.
19. Zoroark
Firstly, the appearance of a werewolf-like creature with a vibrant red punk ponytail is quite impressive.
Zoroark is a Pokemon known as the Illusion Fox, drawing inspiration from the mythical Kitsune creatures found in Japanese folklore. It possesses impressive Speed, Attack, and Special Attack stats, making it a formidable fighter in theory.
Zoroark, a Dark-type Pokemon, boasts an impressive array of Dark moves in its arsenal, including Dark Pulse and Foul Play.
This Pokémon is skilled at using illusions to its advantage, fooling opponents and proving to be a valuable asset to any team.
Regrettably, when playing competitively, team previews tend to make Zoroark quite predictable, which is quite unfortunate considering that unpredictability is its main selling point.
18. Houndoom
This Pokemon from Generation Two has quite a mischievous appearance. Houndoom possesses impressive Speed and Special Attack stats, allowing it to excel in battles.
Additionally, its unique dual typing provides versatility in its moveset, making it a formidable opponent.
People adore the design of Houndoom because it resembles a massive dog that appears to frequent metal concerts in between its battles. I wonder what impact it would have on the mail carriers.
Houndoom is a Fire-type Pokémon, which means it has a variety of useful attacks in its arsenal. By the way, according to its Pokedex entry, being burned by its flames can result in long-lasting pain.
Wow, that’s quite a gloomy shade. Although Houndoom is a decent Special Attacker, it falls short in terms of dealing significant damage, highlighting the reliance on its mega form.
17. Grimmsnarl
Marnie’s Gigantamax Grimmsnarl is towering over the battlefield.
A mischievous creature of the fairy realm is undeniably a standout inclusion in the Sword and Shield Pokedex, boasting impressive strength that sets it apart as one of the game’s most formidable Pokemon.
Discovering its evolution line in places such as the Glimwood Tangle makes evolving them into Grimmsnarl a worthwhile endeavor.
First and foremost, Prankster is an incredibly powerful ability that can lead to highly advantageous situations. Grimmsnarl is a formidable opponent for any Pokemon team, thanks to its impressive Attack stat and powerful moves like Darkest Lariat and Brick Break.
16. Yveltal
Legendary Pokemon are known for their exceptional strength, and Yveltal is no exception with its impressive array of powerful abilities.
First, the stats of this creature are truly impressive, with each one surpassing the norm. Its Special Attack is particularly exceptional, reaching unprecedented levels.
The Dark Aura ability significantly enhances the power of Dark-type attacks, resulting in moves such as Foul Play and Sucker Punch packing quite a punch.
There is a lot of discussion about which legendary from X and Y is more formidable, but there is no denying the immense power of Yveltal, appropriately named the Destruction Pokemon.
15. Sharpedo
Sharpedo made its debut in Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire, where it emerged as a formidable Water and Dark-type Pokemon that evolves from Carvanha once it reaches level 30.
Many Pokedex entries describe it as a formidable predator, known for its impressive speed of 75 mph and its tendency to defend its territory by attacking ships.
When you’re enjoying a swim and catch a glimpse of Sharpedo’s fin, it’s best to quickly exit the water or hope for a stroke of luck.
It’s always a great idea to have a Sharpedo on your team, given its impressive Attack, Speed, and Special Attack stats.
This shark is incredibly efficient in battles, swiftly overpowering your competition with its powerful moves like Crunch, Ice Fang, and Liquidation.
14. Umbreon
Umbreon is widely loved by trainers for its Dark-type abilities and its status as an Eeveelution, making it a highly sought-after Pokemon.
You’ll find Umbreon plushies and onesies among the top-tier Pokemon merchandise at friendly stores that specialize in selling these awesome items. They’re right up there with the classics like Charizard and Pikachu.
This Eeveelution possesses impressive HP, Defense, and Special Defense stats, along with a wide array of utility moves in its movepool.
Umbreon is an excellent choice for a defensive Pokémon, thanks to its move set including Foul Play, Wish, Heal Bell, and more. Its impressive durability is bound to frustrate your opponents and make it an effective wall and healer.
13. Hydreigon
There’s no denying that a dark dragon is an incredibly cool concept, and Hydreigon definitely lives up to the hype. All its stats are looking good, with Special Attack being particularly strong.
With its unique combination of Dark and Dragon-types, Hydreigon proves to be quite resilient against many opposing attacks, despite a few minor weaknesses. That will definitely make preserving this beast a lot easier in most matches.
Hydreigon is definitely not known for its defensive capabilities. Draco Meter is a powerful move that fans love, as it inflicts significant damage while also reducing the user’s Special Attack.
Additionally, it acquires a wide range of coverage moves such as Flamethrower, Dark Pulse, and Flash Cannon.
12. Darkrai
Our beloved Dark-types possess quite formidable abilities. Darkrai, for instance, has the power to induce haunting nightmares in those unfortunate enough to be in its presence.
This Pokemon is often referred to as the Pitch-Black Pokemon, emphasizing its dark nature. That’s about as dark as it gets.
Darkrai’s legendary status elevates its popularity, making it highly coveted among trainers for its exceptional abilities. Dark Void is a move that has the ability to put opponents to sleep, making it quite effective in double battles where it can affect multiple Pokemon.
In battles, Darkrai proves to be quite a menace with its impressive stats and the ability to inflict damage on opposing Pokemon while they are asleep, thanks to its ability Bad Dreams.
11. Iron Jugulis
Iron Jugulis is a Pokemon that was introduced in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. This new version of Hydreigon abandons its original Dragon typing and instead adopts the Dark and Flying types.
Although some may argue that the original form is superior, Iron Jugulis is still highly effective in its own right.
If a regular Hydreigon was versatile like a Swiss army knife, then Iron Jugulis is more focused and powerful like a specialized power drill.
When it comes to stat distribution, this Pokémon prioritizes speed and special attack, sacrificing recovery and utility in favor of becoming a formidable attacker.
When paired with an item like Choice Specs and its ability Quark Drive, Iron Jugulis becomes a formidable force in battles, effortlessly sweeping through opponents.
10. Kingambit
Kingambit is seen in a Pokedex image for Pokemon Scarlet & Violet, surrounded by a group of Pawniard and Bisharp.
Kingambit is the next step in the evolution of the beloved Unova Pokemon Bisharp.
It essentially outperforms Bisharp in every way. Bisharp’s stats are truly impressive, except for its relatively low Speed. However, Speed has never been Bisharp’s main focus.
In addition to its impressive strength, Kingambit possesses a variety of impressive moves and the extraordinary ability known as Supreme Overload.
Kingambit’s Attack and Special Attack receive a 10 percent boost for each fainted teammate. Kingambit is an exceptional late-game sweeper, particularly due to its powerful priority move, Sucker Punch.
9. Galarian Moltres
Galarian Moltres eagerly anticipates devouring a massive fruit hanging from a tree
The Crown Tundra, an expansion for Pokemon Sword and Shield, brought forth exciting variations of Kanto’s legendary birds, featuring fresh types and captivating designs.
Galarian Moltres is a formidable Dark and Flying-type Pokémon. Although it no longer possesses Fire-type attacks, it compensates with a wide range of devastating moves and impressive stats that can decimate your opponent’s entire team.
In addition to its impressive moves like Hurricane and Sky Attack, Galarian Moltres possesses the Berserk ability, which can greatly influence the outcome of a battle when you find yourself in a challenging situation.
When Galarain Moltres’ HP falls below half, its special attack gets a boost, making it a piece of cake to defeat even the most formidable Pokemon.
8. Meowscarada
The Pokedex image of Meowscarada shows it in the midst of a captivating performance in a bustling town square.
Meowscarada joins the ranks of powerful Dark-type starters, just like the legendary Greninja and Incineroar.
This Grass and Dark-type Pokémon is known for its impressive speed, strength, and arsenal of powerful moves. First and foremost, Meowscarada possesses the Hidden Ability Protean, which grants it the ability to effortlessly alter its type.
The move pool of this Pokémon is truly impressive, featuring U-turn, Taunt, Spikes, Knock Off, and its unique move, Flower Trick.
Meowscarada excels at being a specialist, focusing on fast attacks and providing support. Its exceptional performance in these areas overshadows any concerns about its limited versatility.
7. Greninja
Greninja, the ultimate form of the starter Froakie, possesses a unique blend of Dark and Water-type abilities. With its Hidden Ability, Protean, this Pokémon has the amazing ability to change its type to match the move it’s using.
When you use a Ghost-type move like Shadow Sneak, Greninja will temporarily transform into a Ghost-type Pokemon until it uses a move of a different kind.
With careful consideration of different attack vulnerabilities, you can make some truly strategic moves. Greninja also receives a boost to its offensive moves, allowing it to take advantage of its typing.
In addition to its impressive abilities, Greninja is known for its unique combination of frog-like characteristics and ninja skills. What’s there not to adore?
6. Krookodile
Krookodile is a Ground and Dark-type Pokemon that was first introduced in the Pokemon Black and White games.
Sharpedo is often referred to as the “Bully of the Sea,” and Krookodile has a similar nickname in the Pokedex as the “Bully of the Sands.”
Krookodile is incredibly skilled at maneuvering through sand, almost as if it were water. Once it captures its prey, it can swiftly tear them apart with its powerful teeth.
During the opening hours of your journey, it might be a bit challenging to come across Sandile, the original form of Krookodile.
However, it’s definitely worth making an effort to catch one as soon as possible. Krookodile is a formidable force that has earned its reputation as the Intimidation Pokemon. Moves such as Earthquake, Thrash, and Outrage can cause significant damage due to its impressive Attack stat.
5. Tyranitar
Tyranitar possesses well-rounded stats in all aspects, with its Speed being somewhat lower. It has a wide range of moves to choose from, including Dark, Rock, Ground, and Normal-types.
This Pokemon is known for its impressive strength and formidable defenses, earning it the fitting title of the Armor Pokemon.
Tyranitar, as the pseudo-legendary of the region where the Dark-type was first introduced, has a significant reputation to uphold, and it certainly lives up to it.
Tyranitar has been widely utilized in competitive play as a Sandstorm setter, sweeper, and pivot throughout its existence.
Many fans also enjoy its slightly brighter color scheme as a refreshing departure from the typically moody colors found in Dark-type Pokemon.
4. Urshifu
Urshifu, the beloved Fighting-type from Generation Eight, comes in two different forms – one with a Water-type twist and another with a Dark-type edge.
Both Pokemon are impressive in their own unique ways, each with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. One drawback of Single Strike Urshifu is its vulnerability to Fairy-type attacks, which can be quite devastating. Nevertheless, that’s the only issue.
Urshifu is an absolute powerhouse. The HP, Attack, Defense, and Speed stats of this creature are truly impressive. The power of its ability, Unseen Fist, shines in double battles by bypassing Protect.
Urshifu becomes incredibly formidable when equipped with a Choice Band, allowing it to effortlessly dismantle even the sturdiest of defenses. Its wide array of coverage moves further amplifies its already impressive offensive capabilities.
3. Incineroar
It’s quite surprising to see Incineroar make an appearance in Smash, isn’t it? However, this unexpected development has occurred, and despite its fiery nature, this ultimate form of Litten also possesses the Dark-type attribute.
Incineroar boasts impressive, balanced stats, making it an excellent choice for any team. Owners of Pokemon Sun or Moon can easily obtain this Pokemon as it evolves from a starter Pokemon.
I’ve heard that Incineroar can be quite aggressive towards other trainers at times. Oh no! It’s quite a challenge to handle, but who wouldn’t want a powerful and slightly eerie cat-like creature on their team?
In double battles, Incineroar truly excels, thanks to its arsenal of moves like Fake Out and Parting Shot.
2. Roaring Moon
The Dark-type Pokemon Roaring Moon has already won over numerous individuals with its undeniable charm as the ultimate Salamence alternative.
The design is impressive, showcasing more fierce and intricate features compared to the original Salamence’s simpler and sleeker design. Roaring Moon boasts excellent typing in Dragon and Dark, along with an impressive ability and a versatile move pool.
Just like the other past forms, Roaring Moon has the ability Protosynthesis. This ability is truly remarkable, as it enhances Roaring Moon’s highest stat by one stage.
With the addition of Dragon Dance and powerful items like Life Orb, Roaring Moon emerges as an exceptional sweeper, solidifying its status as one of the top Dark-type Pokemon in history.
1. Ruinous Quartet
The iconic Ruinous Quartet of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are all incredibly fascinating. First and foremost, you’ll need to gather a few items in the overworld in order to unlock their seal and come face to face with them.
Fortunately, they are incredibly powerful and definitely worth the hard work. They also have quite melancholic Pokedex entries, so be sure to give them a read.
All four of these Pokemon have the Dark-type, but each one also has a unique secondary elemental type.
All of them possess abilities that can decrease a particular stat of the opposing Pokemon on the battlefield, which is truly remarkable. Their stats and move pools are exceptional, solidifying these legendaries as top-tier Dark-types.
