Zapdos is a legendary Pokémon dating back to the first generation games, and its triumphant return in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet leaves me with one question: which Nature suits it best? Below, you'll find the best Natures Zapdos can have in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
What is the best Nature for Zapdos in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet?
The best Natures you can give Zapdos are either of the following:
- Timid (+Speed, -Attack)
- Bold (+Defense, -Attack)
Zapdos is one of few Pokémon that is powerful both offensively and defensively. Its high Special Attack and Speed make it an excellent sweeper, allowing it to outspeed and KO opponents without taking too many hits itself. If you're looking for a Pokémon to dish out some serious damage, then Timid Zapdos is an ideal pick.
When Zapdos does have to take some damage, its decent bulk will keep it alive and healthy into the next turn. Furthermore, its partial Flying type completely negates the weakness to Ground moves that plagues most other Electric-type Pokémon, bolstering its defensive prowess. For players seeking a more defensive core on their team, Bold Zapdos is an excellent compromise between power and tankiness.
Related: Best Nature for Mienfoo and Mienshao in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
How to choose the best Nature in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
Choosing the best Nature for each member of your Pokémon team isn't always easy. You need to strike a balance between the Pokémon's best stats, its movepool, and the role you need to fill on your team. Using Zapdos as an example, its strongest stat is its Special Attack, but it also has high Defense and Special Defense that afford it some flexibility.
When deciding on a Nature, it's generally best to avoid boosting a Pokémon's weaker stats. In theory, shoring up a Pokémon's weaknesses isn't a bad idea, but in practice, it will only leave your Pokémon vulnerable. For instance, Zapdos's Attack stat is mediocre compared to its Special Attack, so lowering its Attack in favor of another stat will serve it best.
Ultimate nature chart for Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
| Nature | Increased Stat | Decreased Stat |
|---|---|---|
| Lonely | Attack | Defense |
| Adamant | Attack | Special Attack |
| Naughty | Attack | Special Defense |
| Brave | Attack | Speed |
| Bold | Defense | Attack |
| Impish | Defense | Special Attack |
| Lax | Defense | Special Defense |
| Relaxed | Defense | Speed |
| Modest | Special Attack | Attack |
| Mild | Special Attack | Defense |
| Rash | Special Attack | Special Defense |
| Quiet | Special Attack | Speed |
| Calm | Special Defense | Attack |
| Gentle | Special Defense | Defense |
| Careful | Special Defense | Special Attack |
| Sassy | Special Defense | Speed |
| Timid | Speed | Attack |
| Hasty | Speed | Defense |
| Jolly | Speed | Special Attack |
| Naive | Speed | Special Defense |
| Hardy | - | - |
| Docile | - | - |
| Bashful | - | - |
| Quirky | - | - |
| Serious | - | - |
For more Pokémon Scarlet & Violet content, check out Best nature for Morpeko in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet and Best Nature for Timburr, Gurdurr, and Conkeldurr in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet here on Pro Game Guides.
Morgan Staggs is a lifelong gamer and writer. When she isn't playing Roblox, Minecraft, or Skyrim on her PC, you can find her at a local coffee shop buried in a book.