Deoxys (Defense Forme)
Attack
Defense
Stamina
Best Movesets
Analysis
Deoxys Defense Forme is a very strong Pokemon that's gained a lot of popularity in Pokemon Go.......but only for PvP. It boasts some of the highest DEF stats in the entire game, with a monstrous 330 DEF! While its bulk makes it highly valued in PvP, Mythical Pokemon can't be slotted into Gyms, which basically makes this Pokemon useless in the PvE scene.
Offense
- Zen Headbutt should be paired with Psycho Boost to fulfill a Psychic-type role, but otherwise don't bother.
- Counter is a strong move, but mostly for actual Fighting-type Pokemon.
- Likewise, Rock Slide is more valuable for Rock-type Pokemon.
- Thunderbolt doesn't have much use.
Counter is a great move in PvP, while Zen Headbutt is one of the worst, even with STAB.
Psycho Boost is the most commonly seen charge move on Deoxys due to having STAB, low cost, and high DPE. It is Deoxys's best option against Ground-type Pokemon such as Swampert, Galarian Stunfisk, and Nidoqueen. However, it comes with a harsh self-debuff and requires some finesse. Thunderbolt can be chosen for its Electric-type coverage, hitting Water- and Steel-type Pokemon as well as Scrafty. Rock Slide is Deoxys's cheapest non-debuffing move, and can be used to cover targets such as Talonflame, Altaria, or Alolan Marowak.
Deoxys Defense Forme is a tanky Pokemon with wide coverage, making it a great all-rounder. The nerf to Counter in Pokemon GO: Max Out slows down Deoxys-D significantly, but it's still a decent Pokemon overall. Its ability to punish Steel-type Pokemon is what sets it apart from other bulky Psychic-type Pokemon such as Cresselia.
Deoxys-D's biggest weakness, aside from the technical gameplay surrounding Psycho Boost's usage, is its struggles to get past Ghost-type Pokemon. They double resist Counter and strike back with STAB super effective damage.
