Why is Zacian so Broken?

Quick answer

This page answers Why is Zacian so broken? quickly.

AnswerTipsNext

Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.

• Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
• Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
• Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.

• Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
• Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
• Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.

Zacian is considered broken due to its exceptional stats, which surpass those of other Pokémon, making it a formidable opponent in battles, particularly with its ability Intrepid Sword that significantly boosts its stats. The combination of its high attack power, defensive capabilities, and speed creates an almost unbeatable Pokémon, especially when compared to its counterpart, Zamazenta, which, despite being designed for defense, falls short in overall performance against Zacian.

Understanding Zacian’s Power

Stats and Abilities

Zacian’s Base Stat Total (BST) ranks high among Pokémon, and with its ability Intrepid Sword, it achieves a total of 805, making it one of the most powerful Pokémon in the game. This significant boost in stats is a major factor in why Zacian is considered overpowered (OP).

Competitive Environment

In the competitive environment, such as Smogon 6v6, Zacian’s power is evident, with strategies often revolving around it or countering it. Its Fairy/Steel typing provides excellent defensive capabilities, neutralizing common attacking types and making it even more formidable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Zacian the most OP Pokémon?

• Zacian is ranked #8 among Pokémon with the highest BST but becomes the Pokémon with the most stats with its ability Intrepid Sword.

1. Did Zacian get nerfed?

• Yes, Zacian received nerfs, including a cut in its Attack stat by 20 in the Crowned Sword form and by 10 in its normal form.

1. Is Zacian canonically female?

• Technically, no legendary has a gender, but Zacian is often referred to as a female due to its Pokédex description.

1. Why is Zamazenta worse than Zacian?

• Zamazenta is designed for defense but lacks the offensive prowess and better defensive typing of Zacian, making Zacian more versatile.

1. Why was Zacian banned from Competitive Ubers Pokémon?

• Zacian’s overwhelming power and stats made it too dominant, necessitating its ban to maintain balance in competitive matches.

1. Is Zacian stronger than Eternatus?

• While Eternatus has a better move-set, Zacian’s and Zamazenta’s individual stats are slightly higher, making Zacian stronger in terms of base power.

1. Who is more powerful, Zacian or Zamazenta?

• Zacian is considered more powerful due to its typing, which neutralizes Fairy’s weaknesses, and its overall higher performance in battles.

1. Is Zacian breedable?

• No, as a Legendary Pokémon, Zacian cannot be bred, except for Manaphy, all Legendary Pokémon are in the Undiscovered Egg Group.

1. Is Zacian Zamazenta’s sister?

• The Pokédex describes Zacian as possibly Zamazenta’s older sister, implying a familial relationship, though mechanically, Zacian is genderless.

1. What is Zacian’s catch rate?

   • Zacian has a base catch rate of 10 (3.9%), making it very difficult to catch.

2. Who can outspeed Zacian?

   • Faster Pokémon like Calyrex-S, Choice Scarf Kyogre, and offensive Eternatus can outspeed and KO Zacian.

3. Is Zacian in Scarlet and Violet?

   • Although initially not available, Zacian’s eventual addition to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet is anticipated, but its power will likely be nerfed compared to its Sword and Shield version.

4. What are Zacian’s weaknesses?

   • In its Hero of Many Battles form, Zacian is weak against Steel and Poison types.

5. Who can defeat Zacian?

   • Pokémon that are Poison or Steel types, such as Beedrill, Metagross, and Dialga, can counter Zacian effectively.

6. What is the most OP Pokémon?

   • Arceus, with its ability to change forms and high base stats, is considered the most naturally powerful Legendary Pokémon, rivaling Zacian’s dominance in different scenarios.

Conclusion

Zacian’s exceptional stats, combined with its powerful ability and typing, make it a broken Pokémon that significantly influences the meta of Pokémon battles. Understanding its strengths and weaknesses, as well as the strategies to counter it, is crucial for any player aiming to succeed in competitive Pokémon matches. Despite its nerfs and the existence of other powerful Pokémon like Arceus and Eternatus, Zacian remains a top pick and a formidable opponent in the world of Pokémon.