Why is Altaria So Bad in Pokémon GO?

Altaria, the Humming Pokémon, is adored for its fluffy cloud-like wings and charming appearance. However, in the competitive world of Pokémon GO, its performance is often… underwhelming. Simply put, Altaria struggles due to a combination of poor stats, a limiting movepool, and its typing leaving it vulnerable to common meta threats. While it boasts some niche utility, these shortcomings prevent it from consistently performing well in most battle formats. It’s a classic example of a Pokémon that looks good on paper but doesn’t translate well to the game’s mechanics.

Altaria’s Defining Weaknesses in Pokémon GO

Let’s break down the key issues that hold Altaria back:

• Subpar Stats: Altaria’s stat distribution is its biggest downfall. Its Attack stat is abysmally low, hindering its ability to deal meaningful damage. While its Defense and Stamina stats are respectable, they aren’t high enough to compensate for its offensive weaknesses. A Pokémon needs a decent balance or exceptional strength in one area to succeed, and Altaria lacks both.

• Limited Movepool: Even if Altaria had better stats, its movepool is restrictive. While it has access to Dragon Breath, a powerful Dragon-type fast move, its charge moves are less impressive. Sky Attack, while having some utility as a charge move, often lacks the punch needed to KO opponents quickly. The availability of better charged move combinations for other Dragon-types further diminishes Altaria’s appeal.

• Vulnerable Typing: Altaria’s Dragon/Flying typing creates a double-edged sword. While it gains STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) on Dragon and Flying moves, it also becomes doubly weak to Ice-type attacks. Given the prevalence of Ice-types in various leagues and raids, Altaria is easily taken down by common threats. Its weaknesses to Rock and Fairy-type attacks, while not double weaknesses, are still significant vulnerabilities.

• Competition with Other Dragon-types: Pokémon GO has a plethora of Dragon-type Pokémon, many of which outperform Altaria significantly. Dragonite, Salamence, and Garchomp boast superior stats and movepools, making them far more desirable choices for Dragon-type attackers. Even more accessible Dragon-types like Dragonair evolved into Dragonite often prove more effective.

• Lack of Unique Niche: Every Pokémon should ideally carve out a niche where it excels. Altaria attempts to fulfill a role as a bulky Dragon-type attacker but fails to stand out due to the previously mentioned factors. Other Pokémon can perform similar roles more effectively, leaving Altaria without a clear purpose in most competitive scenarios.

Niche Uses and Potential

Despite its limitations, Altaria isn’t entirely useless. Its Dragon/Flying typing and access to Dragon Breath make it a somewhat decent Dragon-type attacker in specific situations. It can also function as a budget option for players who haven’t acquired stronger Dragon-types.

The release of Mega Altaria offers some hope. With enhanced stats and a potentially improved movepool, Mega Altaria could address some of the original’s weaknesses and become a more viable option. However, its performance will ultimately depend on the specific stats and moves it receives.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Altaria in Pokémon GO

1. Is Altaria a good Pokémon in Pokémon GO?

Generally, no. Altaria is considered a below-average Pokémon due to its poor Attack stat, limited movepool, and vulnerable typing. It struggles to compete against stronger Pokémon in most battle formats.

2. What are Altaria’s best moves in Pokémon GO?

Dragon Breath is its best fast move, providing reliable Dragon-type damage. Sky Attack is a decent charge move.

3. What is Altaria weak against in Pokémon GO?

Altaria is doubly weak to Ice-type attacks. It is also weak to Rock and Fairy-type attacks.

4. What is Altaria strong against in Pokémon GO?

Altaria is resistant to Grass, Bug, Fighting, and Ground-type attacks.

5. Is Mega Altaria any good in Pokémon GO?

Mega Altaria is a significant improvement over its base form. Its increased stats, especially its Attack stat, make it a viable choice for raids and potentially in PvP. It’s a Fairy/Dragon type.

6. How do I evolve Swablu into Altaria in Pokémon GO?

You need 400 Swablu Candy to evolve Swablu into Altaria.

7. Can Altaria be shiny in Pokémon GO?

Yes, Shiny Altaria is available in Pokémon GO.

8. What is the ideal IV (Individual Values) for Altaria in Pokémon GO?

For Great League, a low Attack stat with high Defense and Stamina is generally preferred. A close to 0/15/15 IV spread is usually considered ideal. For Ultra League, a high IV spread is generally preferred, aiming for as close to 15/15/15 as possible.

9. Is Altaria good in the Great League?

Altaria can find some success in the Great League due to its bulk and access to Dragon Breath. However, it’s still vulnerable to common meta threats and requires careful team building to be effective.

10. Is Altaria good in the Ultra League?

Altaria is less viable in the Ultra League due to the presence of stronger Pokémon with higher stats. It struggles to compete against the dominant meta choices.

11. What is Altaria’s role in a raid?

Altaria is generally not a good choice for raids due to its low Attack stat and vulnerability to Ice-type attacks. There are far better Dragon-type attackers available.

12. What are some alternative Dragon-type Pokémon to use instead of Altaria?

Better alternatives include Dragonite, Salamence, Garchomp, Rayquaza, and Palkia. These Pokémon have superior stats and movepools, making them far more effective in both raids and PvP.

13. Is Altaria a good option for beginners in Pokémon GO?

Altaria can be a decent option for beginners due to its relative accessibility. Swablu is a common spawn, and 400 Candy isn’t too difficult to acquire. However, players should prioritize acquiring stronger Pokémon as they progress.

14. How can I best utilize Altaria in Pokémon GO battles?

If you choose to use Altaria, focus on using Dragon Breath for consistent damage and Sky Attack to bait shields. Be mindful of its weaknesses and avoid matchups against Ice, Rock, and Fairy-type Pokémon.

15. Will Altaria ever become a meta-relevant Pokémon in Pokémon GO?

While it’s unlikely that Altaria will become a top-tier meta Pokémon in its current form, the introduction of new moves or changes to the game’s mechanics could potentially improve its viability. The arrival of Mega Altaria has definitely changed the meta and made the Pokémon much more relevant. Stay tuned for future updates and potential balance changes!