What is Considered Good Speed in Pokémon? The Ultimate Guide
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Good Speed in Pokémon is a nuanced concept, deeply intertwined with the competitive meta-game, the specific Pokémon being considered, and the overall team strategy. However, a general benchmark for what’s considered “good” speed is anything above 110 Base Speed. This allows a Pokémon to outspeed a significant portion of the OU (OverUsed) tier threats, including key targets like Mega Diancie, Latios/Latias, Gengar, and Gallade (before any Speed boosts or hindering effects). The actual “goodness” of a Speed stat, though, is determined by how well it synergizes with the Pokémon’s other stats, its movepool, and the role it’s intended to fulfill on a team.
Understanding Speed in Pokémon Battles
Speed is arguably one of the most important stats in Pokémon. It dictates which Pokémon attacks first in a turn. This can be the difference between landing a crucial knockout blow or being taken out before you even have a chance to act. But it’s not simply about having the highest Speed stat possible. Strategic investment in Speed, understanding Speed tiers, and utilizing Speed-boosting moves or items are all key aspects of competitive play. The concept of Speed is a cornerstone of game mechanics, and its influence is felt in numerous ways.
Base Stats vs. Effective Speed
It’s vital to understand the distinction between Base Speed, Individual Values (IVs), Effort Values (EVs), Natures, and how these elements combine to determine a Pokémon’s effective Speed in battle.
- Base Stats: These are the inherent Speed values of a Pokémon species. Regieleki’s Base Speed of 200 is an extreme example.
- IVs: These are hidden values ranging from 0 to 31 for each stat, randomly assigned to a Pokémon. A higher IV in Speed translates to a higher effective Speed.
- EVs: These are earned by battling Pokémon and can be allocated strategically to boost specific stats. A maximum of 252 EVs can be invested in a single stat, significantly impacting Speed.
- Natures: Natures provide a 10% boost to one stat and a 10% decrease to another. A Speed-boosting Nature like Timid or Jolly is crucial for many offensive Pokémon.
All these factors contribute to a Pokémon’s effective Speed stat, which is the number displayed in the Pokémon’s summary. This is the number used to determine turn order.
The Importance of Speed Tiers
Competitive Pokémon battles aren’t just about raw Speed stats. They are about Speed Tiers. A Speed Tier is a range of Speed values that allows a Pokémon to outspeed a certain group of commonly used threats. Knowing these tiers allows players to meticulously optimize their Pokémon’s Speed to consistently outspeed key opponents.
For example, a player might invest enough Speed in their Pokémon to outspeed a Choice Scarfed Pokémon after a Dragon Dance boost, or to Speed creep another Pokémon and try to outspeed them. This strategic min-maxing is a hallmark of competitive Pokémon. Understanding and utilizing Speed Tiers is critical for success.
Is There Such Thing as Too Much Speed?
While Speed is undeniably important, there are situations where too much Speed can be detrimental. Specifically, Trick Room teams are designed around Pokémon with low Speed moving first. In Trick Room, the Pokémon with the lowest Speed stat attacks first. In this scenario, a 0 Speed IV is highly desirable. Also, some moves like Gyro Ball do more damage the slower the user is compared to the target. Some strategic value lies in maximizing damage of certain moves, where otherwise the investment would have been in Speed.
Beyond Raw Speed: Speed Control
Speed Control refers to strategies and moves that manipulate the Speed of Pokémon in battle. This includes moves like Tailwind, Sticky Web, Icy Wind, Thunder Wave, and abilities like Prankster. A fast Pokémon with access to these moves can cripple opposing teams, providing a significant advantage. This adds another layer to the Speed dynamic.
FAQs: Speed in Pokémon
1. What is the average Speed for Pokémon?
The average Base Speed for all Pokémon is around 66, while the average Base Speed for fully evolved Pokémon is closer to 78. However, these averages are not particularly useful for competitive analysis.
2. Is 95 Speed good?
95 Base Speed is above average, but not exceptional. It might be sufficient for certain bulky or supportive Pokémon, but offensive Pokémon typically need higher Speed to consistently outspeed threats.
3. Is 70 Speed slow?
Yes, 70 Base Speed is generally considered slow. While it can be workable with Speed-boosting moves or abilities (e.g., Agility), Pokémon with this low Speed are often better suited for supportive roles or as Trick Room sweepers.
4. What is the fastest Speed in Pokémon?
Regieleki boasts the highest Base Speed in Pokémon, sitting at a blistering 200. This makes it almost guaranteed to move first in most battles.
5. Which Pokémon has the lowest Speed?
Several Pokémon share the lowest Base Speed of 5, including Shuckle.
6. What does a “0 Speed IV” mean, and why is it desirable?
A “0 Speed IV” means that the Pokémon has the lowest possible Individual Value for Speed. It is desirable for Trick Room teams, where the goal is to have Pokémon move last under Trick Room’s effect.
7. How important is Speed in Pokémon?
Speed is arguably the most important stat in competitive Pokémon. It determines who attacks first, which can be the difference between winning and losing. Speed control strategies are also integral to team building.
8. How much Speed is enough?
This depends on the Pokémon and its role. But a general rule of thumb is that anything above 110 Base Speed can be considered “good.” In general, investment in Speed is an investment that pays off.
9. What is Speed Creep?
Speed Creep refers to the trend of competitive players increasing the Speed investment of their Pokémon to outspeed specific threats, often leading to an arms race of Speed. The Speed Tier rises when a new or powerful Pokemon arrives, and all others adjust accordingly.
10. What are the best ways to increase Speed in battle?
The best ways to increase Speed in battle include:
- Using moves like Agility, Dragon Dance, or Quiver Dance.
- Utilizing abilities like Speed Boost or Chlorophyll.
- Holding items like Choice Scarf or Life Orb.
- Using support moves like Tailwind or Sticky Web.
11. How do Natures affect Speed?
A Speed-boosting Nature, such as Timid (+Speed, -Attack) or Jolly (+Speed, -Sp. Attack), increases a Pokémon’s Speed by 10%. This is crucial for maximizing Speed.
12. Does Speed matter in Pokémon GO?
While the core games determine turn order via a “Speed” stat, in Pokémon GO there are other factors, such as the charge time of moves, but it doesn’t play a direct role in attack order in the same way. However, the game does limit your ability to hatch eggs if you move too quickly, essentially capping movement speed.
13. What is a “Choice Scarf”?
A Choice Scarf is an item that boosts a Pokémon’s Speed by 50% but locks it into using only one move. This can be a powerful tool for outspeeding opponents.
14. Why are some Pokémon “naturally fast”?
Some Pokémon are “naturally fast” because their Base Speed stat is naturally high. This is often due to their design or lore representing them as agile and quick creatures.
15. How does Speed tie into Pokémon Learning and Education?
The complex strategies and calculations involved in optimizing Speed and understanding Speed Tiers can be a valuable exercise in critical thinking, problem-solving, and mathematical reasoning. The strategic element of Speed is a good exercise in planning and predicting. Organizations like the Games Learning Society recognize the educational potential of gaming, including Pokémon, in developing these skills. Learn more about this at GamesLearningSociety.org.