best pokemon in ultra moon

The world of Pokémon Ultra Moon is vast and vibrant, filled with diverse creatures to befriend and battle. Determining the single "best" Pokémon is a complex endeavor, as it heavily depends on a trainer's strategy, preferred playstyle, and the specific challenges they face. However, by examining factors such as availability, in-game utility, competitive viability, and overall power, we can identify several standout candidates that make compelling cases for the title of the best partner in Alola.

Defining "Best" in Alola

The concept of the "best" Pokémon in Ultra Moon is multifaceted. For a main playthrough, a Pokémon's early availability, evolution level, movepool diversity, and performance against major battles like the Island Kahunas and the Elite Four are paramount. In the post-game, including the brutal challenges of the Battle Tree and the Ultra Beast missions, raw statistical power, strategic synergy, and competitive move-sets become critical. A truly exceptional Pokémon often excels in both realms, providing unwavering support from the first trial to the final legendary confrontation.

Top Contenders for the Title

Several Pokémon distinguish themselves as top-tier companions in Ultra Moon. Their strengths lie not just in brute force, but in their ability to simplify difficult encounters and adapt to the varied threats of the Alola region.

Incineroar: The Dark Horse Starter

The final evolution of the Fire-type starter Litten, Incineroar, transitions from a physical attacker to a formidable defensive pivot. Its unique typing, Fire/Dark, grants key resistances and an immunity to Psychic-type moves, which are invaluable against certain Totem Pokémon and Ultra Necrozma. Access to moves like Darkest Lariat, which ignores opponent's stat changes, and the ability Intimidate, which lowers the opponent's Attack upon entering battle, make it a strategic powerhouse. Its signature Z-Move, Malicious Moonsault, can decisively end crucial fights. Incineroar's blend of bulk, utility, and power secures its place as one of the most reliable choices for any playthrough.

Alolan Ninetales: The Icy Enchantress

Captured as Vulpix on Mount Lanakila, Alolan Ninetales offers a unique and powerful support role. Its Ice/Fairy typing is both a blessing and a curse, but its ability, Snow Warning, automatically summons hail. This enables its other ability, Snow Cloak, to boost evasion, but more importantly, it allows Ninetales to use the move Aurora Veil on its first turn. Aurora Veil, a move that halves physical and special damage for five turns when hail is active, is arguably the best defensive move in the game. This single capability can turn the tide of the most difficult battles, making even frail teammates remarkably durable.

Mimikyu: The Disguised Powerhouse

Mimikyu's unique ability, Disguise, grants it a free turn by nullifying the damage from one hit. This is an extraordinary advantage in both casual and competitive play. Its Ghost/Fairy typing provides excellent offensive coverage and key immunities. With this guaranteed safe turn, Mimikyu can almost always set up a Swords Dance, dramatically boosting its Attack. Following this, a powerful Play Rough or Shadow Claw can sweep through opposing teams. Its resilience and set-up potential make it a consistent and devastating choice against nearly every major opponent in the game.

Necrozma (Dusk Mane/Dawn Wings): The Legendary Climax

While obtained later in the story, Necrozma in its fused forms represents the pinnacle of raw power. By combining with Solgaleo or Lunala to become Dusk Mane or Dawn Wings Necrozma, it gains astronomical stats and a devastating signature move, Sunsteel Strike or Moongeist Beam, which ignore all abilities. This is particularly crucial for defeating Ultra Necrozma. In the post-game, these forms are titans capable of overwhelming the Battle Tree. Their late-game acquisition prevents them from being the "best" for the entire journey, but from the moment they are obtained, they redefine the meaning of power in the player's party.

The Case for Utility and Support

Beyond pure attackers, utility Pokémon significantly enhance the entire team's performance. Crobat, evolving early from the common Zubat, offers incredible speed, a superb Poison/Flying typing for dealing with troublesome Fairy-types, and the ability to use moves like Supersonic and Toxic for control. Mudsdale, the Alolan Ground-type, boasts phenomenal physical bulk and the ability Stamina, which raises its Defense every time it is hit, making it an immovable wall. Pokémon like these may not always land the final blow, but they create the opportunities for others to do so, proving that the "best" Pokémon can also be the one that best enables its teammates.

Conclusion: A Partner, Not Just a Weapon

Ultra Moon's best Pokémon is ultimately defined by its partnership with the trainer. Incineroar provides balanced power and strategic depth from start to finish. Alolan Ninetales offers unparalleled defensive support that trivializes difficult encounters. Mimikyu's unique mechanics guarantee offensive opportunities. The fused Necrozma forms deliver unmatched late-game dominance. For a holistic playthrough, Incineroar or Mimikyu present the strongest combination of early availability, consistent performance, and end-game viability. They are partners that grow alongside the trainer, capable of adapting to every challenge Alola presents. The true best Pokémon is the one that complements the trainer's journey, turning the trials of Alola into a story of shared triumph.

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