Pokemon Sword & Shield’s Battle Tower is just one of the post-game features Nintendo Switch players can access once the main story is finished. It’s tough, but you can conquer it with these Pokemon.
Veteran Pokemon players will feel a sense of familiarity when they enter Sword and Shield’s Battle Tower, as similar post-game facilities have become available in previous titles such as Generation III’s Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald.
The Battle Tower pits trainers against each other in either Single or Double battles, as they look to move up the ranks to win Battle Points (BP) and various rewards.
The Tower isn’t easy though, and you’ll need the right Pokemon and a lot of training to win your battles. Don’t know which monsters you need on your side? We’ve picked the best Pokemon for you to take into Single and Double battles.
Before you start the Battle Tower…
Battles are split into two types – Single or Double – and both require different strategies in order to beat your opponent and move up the ranks.
In Singles you can choose three Pokemon to bring into the fight with you, and throw out one at a time in a one-on-one brawl. The first monster you pick will be sent out first, so choose wisely.
Doubles requires you to pick a team of four to use in a two versus two battle. A different strategy is needed here, since pairs will need to work together more often than not in order to accomplish a victory.
Make sure that you EV train your Pokemon before going in – this means raising their Effort Values, or bonus stats, to ensure that they deal maximum damage to opponents.
The easiest way to do this is by using Vitamins such as Iron, Calcium, and Protein to increase values. These can be bought at the Wyndon and central Hammerlocke Pokemon Centers.
You can also use Wings found on various bridges throughout the game, or by sending your monsters off on Pokejobs.
Best Pokemon for Single battles
Eternatus
One of the best monsters to bring into the ring is Eternatus – the gigantic Legendary Pokemon obtained through the main story campaign.
Its high Speed and Special Attack stats make for a great threat to use in one-on-one fights, especially if you use your Dynamax ability. Make sure you give it a Choice Specs to hold.
Early fights become a breeze with this massive beast, so it’s a great pick when first climbing up the ranks as it allows you to plow through enemies with ease.
Zacian
Zacian is Shield’s Legendary dog Pokemon, and is obtained during the post-game in a series of events before the Battle Tower opens up.
It’s a strong contender for Singles as it boasts high offensive stats, and its Rusted Sword held item allows it to change form to Crowned Sword, which boosts power and adds a Steel type.
Behemoth Blade, Sacred Sword, and Swords Dance are moves you should definitely have the dog learn for maximum damage output in fights.
Mimikyu
The dual-type Ghost/Fairy monster is a great Pokemon to add to your one-on-one roster as its Disguise ability allows it to take one hit with minimal damage.
You can find it in the Giant’s Mirror section of the Wild Area during Heavy Fog, though it only has a 3% spawn chance as a random encounter. Once obtained, give it a Life Orb to hold.
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Swords Dance is an essential move as it boosts the monster’s Attack significantly, but it’s also advised to learn Play Rough and Shadow Claw.
Excadrill
Excadrill is the feisty Ground/Steel evolution of Drilbur, and it appears daunting with its large blades on its front paws and on the top of its head.
It’s a formidable foe in one-on-one fights against Ground-weak Pokemon, especially if you use Earthquake and Iron Head when Dynamaxed.
It is recommended that you give the monster a Life Orb to hold before going into the battle, as the item will boost the power of each move, with the cost of HP on each hit.
Best Pokemon for Double battles
Dragapult
The Dragon/Ghost type monster is a fantastic ally in Doubles due to its powerful attacks and incredible Speed stats. Make sure you give it a Power Herb to hold before battle, though.
Obtaining one can be tough as it evolves from Drakloak at level 60, and can’t be found in the wild. Its first form, Dreepy, only has a 2% spawn chance, making it a rare find.
If you can get one, Dragapult’s Dragon Darts attack is perfect for two versus two fights, as it attacks both enemies with one move. U-turn and Phantom Force are also great moves to have.
Gardevoir
While it may be surprising to some, Gardevoir can be a great teammate in battle due to its dual Psychic/Fairy types, especially if holding a Choice Scarf.
It is especially useful if you can teach it Heal Pulse, as the move allows the user to heal its target, meaning it can recover its ally’s HP if needed.
While using it to heal is an excellent advantage, the monster can also learn Thunder Punch for a chance at paralyzing the opponent, as well as Protect to defend against attacks.
Gyarados
While its first form Magikarp might not pack a punch, Gyarados is a mean damage-dealing machine if trained well, making it perfect for the Battle Tower.
Increasing its Speed and Attack EVs makes moves like Earthquake, Dragon Dance, and Bounce devastating when used against the right opponent, especially when equipped with a Choice Band.
Its Intimidate ability lowers all foes’ Attack stat as well, so it’s the perfect damage dealer for two versus two where it can hit both at once.
Grimmsnarl
Another monster perfect for the Battle Tower is Grimmsnarl – the terrifying Dark/Fairy evolution of Morgrem.
Its Frisk ability allows you to see all the held items in your opponent’s team, giving you the advantage to swap a Pokemon out for one that’s more fitting.
Spirit Break is a great move to have, as it never misses and also lowers the target’s Special Attack stat. Play Rough, Fake Tears, and Bulk Up should also be considered.