In the ever-evolving world of Pokémon GO, few raid challenges rival the intensity of a Dynamax Sableye encounter. Known for its dual Ghost and Dark typing, this mischievous Pokémon becomes even more formidable when it Dynamaxes.
It doesn’t just grow in size—it gains massive stat boosts and access to devastating moves. Whether you’re a seasoned trainer or gearing up for your first major Max Raid Battle, taking down Dynamax Sableye requires smart planning, powerful Pokémon, and strategic gameplay. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know to conquer this shadowy powerhouse.
Understanding Dynamax Sableye’s Typing & Strengths
Dynamax Sableye is a hybrid Ghost and Dark-type Pokémon. This unique typing gives it several natural resistances and immunities, which can trip up even experienced players. Here’s what you need to know:
Immunities:
- Normal-type moves: Completely ineffective
- Psychic-type moves: Completely ineffective
Resistances:
- Fighting-type moves: Takes reduced damage
- Poison-type moves: Also takes reduced damage
These defensive strengths make Sableye immune to some of the most commonly used attack types in the game. Trainers who go in with Machamps or Psychic-type powerhouses like Mewtwo will find their efforts wasted. That’s why understanding type matchups is crucial before entering the raid.
Sableye’s Weakness: The Fairy-Type Advantage
While Dynamax Sableye resists many common attacks, it does have a clear weakness—Fairy-type moves. As the only type that is super effective against both Ghost and Dark types simultaneously, Fairy-type Pokémon become your best offensive option. These moves deal approximately 1.6x normal damage to Sableye, giving you a significant edge in battle.
However, don’t rely solely on Fairy-types. Sableye’s Dynamax form often includes moves like:
- Feint Attack (Dark)
- Power Gem (Rock)
These moves can counter and knock out many Fairy-types if they’re not bulky or fast enough. That’s why team balance is key.
Best Pokémon to Counter Dynamax Sableye
Here are some of the top Pokémon to bring to the fight, including recommended moves and roles they play in your team composition:
1. Dynamax Blissey
- Role: Tank / Support
- Recommended Moves: Dazzling Gleam (Fairy), Pound, Hyper Beam
- Why It Works: Blissey boasts massive HP and above-average Special Defense, allowing it to absorb heavy hits from Sableye while dishing out super-effective Fairy-type damage. Dazzling Gleam is the perfect counter to Sableye’s dual-typing.
2. Gigantamax Snorlax
- Role: Tank / Damage Soaker
- Recommended Moves: Lick, Earthquake, Body Slam
- Why It Works: Snorlax can withstand sustained attacks thanks to its bulk. While it doesn’t have Fairy-type moves, its longevity helps draw out Sableye’s more dangerous attacks early on, giving your other Pokémon a chance to shine.
3. Gigantamax Charizard
- Role: Mid-to-late Game Sweeper
- Recommended Moves: Fire Spin, Blast Burn
- Why It Works: Although it doesn’t exploit Sableye’s weakness, Charizard’s powerful STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) moves can deal significant damage quickly. Be cautious—Sableye’s Power Gem can hurt.
4. Dynamax Excadrill
- Role: Balanced Offense
- Recommended Moves: Metal Claw, Scorching Sands
- Why It Works: Excadrill’s speed and move versatility help pressure Sableye. While not a direct counter, it handles other support Pokémon in Max Raids effectively.
5. Gigantamax Kingler
- Role: High DPS Striker
- Recommended Moves: Bubble, Razor Shell
- Why It Works: Kingler hits fast and hard. Though vulnerable to Feint Attack, its offensive output can take chunks out of Sableye’s health, especially when timed correctly after Sableye’s move cooldown.
Pokémon to Avoid
To avoid wasting valuable time and energy, steer clear of these Pokémon types:
- Normal-type Pokémon: Their moves are completely ineffective.
- Psychic-types: Also completely ineffective due to Sableye’s immunity.
- Fighting-types: Sableye resists these, making them poor choices.
- Poison-types: Deal reduced damage and are often too frail for Max Battles.
Optimal Battle Strategy for Taking Down Dynamax Sableye
Simply having the right Pokémon isn’t enough. Strategy is the secret weapon of any successful trainer. Here’s a step-by-step battle plan:
1. Start Strong with a Tank
Open the battle with a Pokémon like Dynamax Blissey. Let it soak up early damage and stabilize your team. Its Dazzling Gleam can chip away at Sableye’s health from the start.
2. Apply Pressure Mid-Fight
After weathering initial attacks, bring in a heavy hitter such as Gigantamax Snorlax or Excadrill. These Pokémon don’t go down easily and can keep applying pressure as the battle intensifies.
3. Finish with a Powerhouse
Save your hardest-hitting Pokémon—perhaps a Gigantamax Charizard—for the endgame. When Sableye’s shield weakens or it has used up powerful attacks, that’s your cue to finish strong.
Timing & Dodging: Master the Mechanics
Sableye’s moves may be powerful, but they’re telegraphed. Watch for the following signs:
- Charge Glow: Indicates a strong attack is coming—dodge immediately.
- Pause in Movement: This is often followed by a Max Move—get ready to evade.
Perfectly timed dodges preserve your Pokémon’s HP and often give you a brief window for a counterattack. Don’t spam dodge—do it smartly.
Managing Your Max Meter
Max Moves are limited but game-changing. Charge your Max Meter with fast attacks and wait for the ideal moment to unleash it. Use your Max Move:
- After dodging a heavy Sableye attack
- When its shield is down
- During a crucial health threshold to end the fight
Maximizing damage output at the right moment can mean the difference between victory and defeat.
Advanced Battle Tactics: Swap Smart
Swapping Pokémon mid-battle isn’t just acceptable—it’s strategic. If your main attacker is about to faint, bring in a tank like Snorlax to take the hit, then cycle your damage-dealer back in for a fresh offensive wave.
This keeps your rhythm tight and minimizes downtime between effective strikes.
Bonus Tips to Secure Victory
Winning against Dynamax Sableye takes more than knowing types and moves. These tips provide an extra edge:
Level Up Your Team
Ensure all your raid Pokémon are at least level 40 or higher. Higher CP means better survivability and damage output.
Use Max Mushrooms
These rare items temporarily boost your Pokémon’s stats during Max Battles. Save them for key fights like Sableye raids.
Collect Max Particles Early
Joining a Dynamax Sableye raid requires 400 Max Particles. Start collecting early to avoid missing out when the opportunity arises.
Team Up During Events
Join Max Raid battle events or special community hours to increase your odds of victory. With more trainers, Sableye’s shields go down faster, and you benefit from team synergy.
Community Strategies & Final Thoughts
Trainers around the world have contributed to developing community strategies for Dynamax Sableye raids. Popular consensus recommends building teams around core Fairy-type attackers supported by tanks and fast DPS Pokémon. Coordinated dodging and Max Move timing are key to survival and victory.
Although Dynamax Sableye can feel intimidating, remember that every battle is a chance to learn. With practice, better synergy, and the right Pokémon, you’ll not only defeat Sableye—you’ll dominate the raid.
Whether you’re raiding solo with a high-powered team or coordinating with friends, this guide arms you with the tactics you need to win. Stay sharp, dodge smart, and remember: even the trickiest Ghosts can be laid to rest with the right fairy-tale ending.
Read Also: