Is Eternatus the Strongest Pokémon? A Deep Dive into Power Scaling
The question of which Pokémon reigns supreme is a timeless debate among fans. While many legendary figures vie for the title, one name frequently surfaces: Eternatus. Its imposing presence and staggering stats have led many to believe it holds the crown. But is it truly the strongest? The short answer is: not definitively. While Eternatus, particularly in its Eternamax form, boasts incredible raw power, the title of “strongest” is nuanced and depends heavily on the criteria used for evaluation. In terms of sheer base stats, Eternamax Eternatus’ total of 1,125 certainly surpasses that of any other Pokémon in the main series games. However, raw stats are not the only determinant of strength. Factors such as movepools, abilities, typing advantages, and even lore play vital roles in assessing a Pokémon’s overall power. So, while Eternatus is statistically powerful, the answer is not that simple.
Eternatus: Power and Limitations
The Colossus of Galar
Eternatus’ monstrous presence in the Galar region is undeniable. A colossal Poison/Dragon-type, it serves as the main antagonist in Pokémon Sword and Shield. Its power is rooted in its ability to absorb energy, which it converts into devastating attacks. The most potent form of Eternatus is the Eternamax form, which players encounter during the game’s climax. This form has an unparalleled base stat total. However, access to this form is restricted to the battle in-game, and it is not a form that trainers can use. This form has a unique move-set and is not something trainers can obtain.
Why is Eternatus So Powerful?
Eternatus, much like Necrozma, is an alien being from space. This extraterrestrial origin is fundamental to its power. It functions as the source of the Dynamax phenomenon, showcasing its ability to manipulate energy on a grand scale. The energy core within Eternatus is the key to its immense strength. This core is what allows it to amplify its power and unleash devastating beams of energy. Its unique power source sets it apart from most other Pokémon.
Stat Supremacy vs. Overall Strength
While Eternatus dominates in raw stats in its Eternamax form, this doesn’t automatically translate to being the absolute strongest. The in-game encounter with Eternamax Eternatus is a scripted 4v1 battle, where two of the trainers have specifically designed moves to bring it down. This means that its power is heavily influenced by the context it is found. This fact suggests that a straight battle, while Eternatus may have the strongest stats, may not be so cut and dried. Other legendary Pokemon such as Arceus, Giratina, and Mega Rayquaza, all possess unique powers and abilities that make them serious contenders for the title of strongest. The notion that stats alone determine the outcome is misleading.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Eternatus and its position in the power hierarchy of the Pokémon world:
1. Is Eternatus more powerful than Arceus?
Statistically, Eternamax Eternatus has a higher base stat total than Arceus. However, Arceus is considered the “God of Pokémon”, and has the Multitype ability which allows it to change form at will, it also has access to telepathy and can control other Legendary Pokémon. Lore-wise, Arceus has a higher standing in the Pokémon universe than Eternatus. In a straight up battle it is often contested who would win.
2. How does Eternatus compare to Mega Rayquaza?
Mega Rayquaza has a base stat total of 780, which is still far below Eternamax Eternatus’ 1125. However, Mega Rayquaza’s power is considered so strong, it had to be banned from Smogon’s highest tier. In terms of pure in-game mechanics, Mega Rayquaza also has one of the strongest moves. However, Eternatus’ Eternamax form can only be fought in the single battle of Sword and Shield, and cannot be brought into regular battles.
3. Can Zacian beat Eternatus?
In the Pokémon Sword and Shield storyline, Zacian and Zamazenta together defeat Eternatus, this is a scripted battle with the help of two trainers. However, the consensus is that Zacian is a better offensive Pokémon than Eternatus, especially in its Crowned Sword form due to its ability and high attack stat. In a straight fight, Zacian may fair better.
4. What are Eternatus’ weaknesses?
Eternatus is a Poison/Dragon-type, making it weak to Ice, Ground, and Psychic-type attacks. A well-prepared team utilizing these type advantages can handle Eternatus effectively.
5. Why is Eternatus the source of Dynamax?
Eternatus’ core contains immense energy, which is the source of the Dynamax phenomenon. Its ability to manipulate this energy allows it to alter the size and power of other Pokémon.
6. Is Eternatus stronger than Necrozma?
While Necrozma is also a powerful alien Pokémon, Eternatus’ base stats in its Eternamax form surpass most of Necrozma’s forms. The lore is a bit mixed, with some claiming Necrozma is stronger. Necrozma’s power helped create an entirely new universe, whereas Eternatus is still contained in the world of Galar. It depends on what form of Necrozma is being compared, Necrozma is capable of much higher levels of power in its most extreme forms.
7. Who is the second strongest Pokémon after Eternatus?
The article suggests that Giratina, the embodiment of anti-matter, is the second most powerful Legendary Pokémon, capable of travelling through dimensions at will. While this is a matter of opinion, Giratina has great versatility as a Pokémon.
8. Can any Pokémon defeat Mewtwo?
Mewtwo is a Psychic-type, making it vulnerable to Bug, Ghost, and Dark-type attacks. Utilizing these types of Pokémon effectively can exploit Mewtwo’s weaknesses.
9. Who can defeat Arceus?
Some of the best Pokémon to counter Arceus include Terrakion, Mega Blaziken, Keldeo, Lucario, Mega Rayquaza, and Conkeldurr, highlighting the importance of using type advantages.
10. Can Pikachu defeat Mewtwo?
Pikachu would struggle against Mewtwo, primarily due to Mewtwo’s vast psychic powers. Mewtwo’s powers are likely too overwhelming for a regular Pikachu.
11. Is Arceus stronger than Mewtwo?
Arceus, being the “God of Pokémon”, is generally regarded as stronger than Mewtwo due to its creation power and incredibly high stats. It also has a more versatile move set and is able to switch types during battle.
12. Who is stronger, Mewtwo or Lugia?
Mewtwo is better for offensive strategies, while Lugia is better for defensive strategies. In a direct battle, Mewtwo is likely to have the advantage.
13. Is Eternatus stronger than Zacian and Zamazenta?
In the game’s storyline, Zacian and Zamazenta are able to defeat Eternatus together. While their stats are individually lower than Eternatus’ Eternamax form, it is clear from the game they have what it takes to bring the colossal beast down.
14. Is Eternatus beatable?
Yes, Eternatus can be defeated. Players in Pokémon Sword and Shield are required to battle and defeat it during the main storyline. The key is to use Psychic, Ice, or Ground types.
15. Can Eternatus be caught?
After defeating Eternatus in the main storyline, players are given the chance to catch it in a Max Raid Battle. Leon eventually catches it and gifts it to Goh.
Conclusion: The Nuances of Power
While Eternamax Eternatus possesses the highest base stat total of any Pokémon, declaring it the absolute strongest is an oversimplification. Factors like abilities, move sets, typing matchups, and the lore of the Pokémon universe all contribute to how strong a Pokémon truly is. While Eternatus may win out on a numbers sheet, in reality the answer is more complex. Strength is a multifaceted concept in the Pokémon world, and the debate about the strongest Pokémon is likely to continue among fans for years to come.