The Untouchables: A Deep Dive into Pokémon Immune to Poison

In the captivating world of Pokémon, status conditions can make or break a battle. Among these, poison is a particularly insidious ailment, slowly draining a Pokémon’s health each turn. But not all Pokémon are susceptible to this toxic affliction. So, who are the lucky few that can shrug off poison like it’s nothing?

Simply put, Steel-type and Poison-type Pokémon are naturally immune to the Poisoned and Badly Poisoned conditions. This immunity stems from their inherent composition; Steel types are resistant to most elemental attacks, while Poison types have an intrinsic resistance to their own toxins. However, as with most rules in Pokémon, there are exceptions and nuances to consider. Let’s delve into the details.

Unpacking the Immunity: Steel and Poison Types

The Fortitude of Steel

Steel-type Pokémon are renowned for their resilience and defensive prowess. Their metallic bodies are naturally resistant to many forms of harm, including toxins. This is why they stand firm against the effects of poison and cannot be poisoned through standard means. Think of iconic Steel types like Steelix, Metagross, and Aegislash – these powerhouses are virtually immune to the dangers of poisoning in battle. The only exception is from the move Corrosion.

Poison vs. Poison: An Intrinsic Defense

Poison-type Pokémon possess a unique immunity rooted in their very nature. Being composed of or highly resistant to toxins, they are naturally unaffected by the Poison status condition. Notable Poison types like Venusaur, Toxapex, and Dragalge can wade through poisonous environments and shrug off Poison-type attacks without breaking a sweat. Again, the only exception is from the move Corrosion.

The Corrosion Exception

While Steel and Poison types are typically immune to poison, the Ability Corrosion changes the game entirely. Possessed by Pokémon like Shelmet and Accelgor, Corrosion allows the user to poison even Steel and Poison type Pokémon. This unique ability adds a strategic layer, forcing players to rethink their strategies when facing these Pokémon.

FAQ: Your Burning Poison Immunity Questions Answered

1. Can Rock-type Pokémon be poisoned?

Rock-type Pokémon are not immune to poison. While they do resist Poison-type attacks, this resistance only mitigates damage and doesn’t prevent the Poisoned or Badly Poisoned status condition.

2. Are there any other ways to prevent poisoning besides having a Steel or Poison type?

Absolutely! Several Abilities, Items, and Moves can prevent or cure poisoning.

• Abilities: Immunity and Pastel Veil completely prevent a Pokémon from being poisoned.
• Items: Antidotes, Full Heals, Heal Powders, and certain Berries like the Pecha Berry can cure poisoning.
• Moves: Aromatherapy and Heal Bell cure the entire party of all status conditions, including poison.

3. Can a sleeping Pokémon be poisoned?

Yes, a Pokémon can simultaneously be Asleep and Poisoned. Status conditions like Sleep, Paralysis, Burn, and Poison can coexist, creating complex and potentially devastating combinations.

4. Is there a Poison/Dark type Pokémon?

Yes, there are several! The most well-known examples include:

• Stunky
• Skuntank
• Drapion

5. Does Poison resist Grass?

Yes, Poison-type attacks are not very effective against Grass-type Pokémon, meaning they deal reduced damage. This is a key factor to consider when building your team and planning your attacks.

6. Does the move Acid cause Poison?

No, Acid does not inflict the Poison status. It lowers the target’s Defense stat, making them more vulnerable to physical attacks, but it doesn’t have any direct effect on poisoning.

7. Are Ghost-type Pokémon immune to poison?

No, Ghost-type Pokémon are not immune to poison, but they do resist Poison-type moves, taking less damage.

8. What happens if a Steel or Poison-type Pokémon is hit by a move like Toxic?

Typically, Toxic, which inflicts the Badly Poisoned status, would fail against Steel or Poison-type Pokémon. However, if the attacking Pokémon has the Corrosion ability, it will bypass this immunity and inflict the Badly Poisoned status.

9. Are there any Dragon/Poison type Pokémon?

Yes, the Pokémon Dragalge is a Dragon/Poison type. This unique typing gives it a strategic advantage against certain types.

10. What are Fairy types weak to?

Fairy-type Pokémon are weak to Poison and Steel type moves, as well as Fire moves.

11. Can Pokémon holding the Safety Goggles still be poisoned?

Safety Goggles only protect against weather effects such as Hail and Sandstorm damage, and powder-based moves like Sleep Powder. They do not protect against Poison.

12. Is there any Pokémon with more than one immunity?

Yes, Shedinja is a Bug/Ghost type with the Wonder Guard Ability. Wonder Guard makes it only susceptible to Super Effective hits. So, it is effectively immune to all other types of attacks. Also, some Pokémon may have more than one Ability that grants immunities, but only one Ability can be active at a time.

13. What is the weakest Poison-type Pokémon?

Determining the “weakest” is subjective and depends on stats, movepool, and other factors. However, some contenders for the weakest Poison-type Pokémon include Ekans, Weedle, Zubat, and Gulpin, especially early in the game.

14. Why are Fire-types resistant to Fairy types?

The resistance likely references folk lore where fae are traditionally said to be weak towards iron and fire. As fairy types are also weak against steel this would make sense. Fairy Pokémon play towards their natural strengths, being super effective against dragons.

15. Is there a Poison-type Legendary?

Yes, Eternatus is a Poison/Dragon-type Legendary Pokémon introduced in Pokémon Sword and Shield.

Mastering Immunity: Strategic Implications

Understanding poison immunity is crucial for competitive Pokémon battles. Knowing which Pokémon are naturally immune allows you to strategically build your team, counter opposing threats, and anticipate your opponent’s moves.

• Team Building: When constructing your team, consider including Steel or Poison types to provide a natural defense against Poison strategies.
• Offensive Strategies: If your opponent relies on Poison tactics, having a Steel or Poison type can completely shut down their plan.
• Strategic Swaps: Recognizing the threat of Corrosion and reacting with strategic swaps can be the difference between victory and defeat.

By grasping the intricacies of Poison immunity, you can elevate your Pokémon gameplay and become a true master of the battlefield. Happy battling! To learn more about gaming strategies and educational aspects, visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.