Pokemon GO Reddit User Claims Gen VIII Pokémon is “Overpowered for PvE Combat”

Morpeko is the latest Pokémon introduced in Pokémon GO, where players have quickly identified effective strategies to utilize its distinctive form-switching ability. Unlike earlier Pokémon that had alternate forms treated as separate entities, Niantic has integrated Morpeko’s Hunger Switch mechanic directly from the main series into the mobile game.

A user named brhino_reddit recently highlighted on the Silph Road subreddit that Morpeko’s ability to change forms confounds the AI in Team GO Rocket Grunt encounters. This confusion leads to PvE trainers interpreting the form switch as the player having swapped out their Pokémon, resulting in a temporary pause in the AI’s attacks.

Here’s how brhino_reddit titled their post:

“Morpeko is straight up busted for PvE battles”

Morpeko is straight up busted for PvE battles byu/brhino_reddit inTheSilphRoad

In the discussion, brhino_reddit pointed out that whenever Morpeko shifts forms, NPC opponents halt their assaults.

This transformation occurs with each charged attack, allowing players to effectively stunlock NPC opponents, giving them no opportunity to counterattack.

Morpeko showcases strong performance in PvP battles (Image via Reddit)

Interestingly, Morpeko’s form-switching in Pokémon GO does not impact its stats or typings; rather, it alters the damage type of its signature move, Aura Wheel.

By effectively managing its various forms, Morpeko can be viewed as possessing an extra charged attack, thus giving it up to three moves to utilize without the usual resource constraints.

Players on the subreddit shared their experiences with Morpeko within the competitive arena, labeling it as a formidable presence on the battlefield due to its versatility and strength.

Many trainers prefer using a moveset featuring Aura Wheel and Psychic Fangs, facilitating access to Electric, Dark, and Psychic damage options, which can strike most Pokémon in the Great League for neutral or better effectiveness.

Comment byu/brhino_reddit from discussion inTheSilphRoad

In an observation by another user, Fast_Moon, they noted that Morpeko might be overly powerful in the competitive landscape of Pokémon GO for an additional reason: Whenever it changes forms, the game tends to freeze or crash. As this new mechanic is still in its stages with Niantic, some glitches can be anticipated.

It is probable that the developers will address these issues in forthcoming updates, which may also resolve the problem of NPC trainers momentarily freezing when Morpeko transitions between forms.

Optimal Moveset for Morpeko in Pokémon GO

Morpeko has a wide range of coverage options (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Although Morpeko’s performance in competitive Pokémon GO battles may vary due to its lower durability, it compensates with impressive attack power and a wide array of coverage moves.

As previously noted, the typical moveset for Morpeko includes Thundershock, Aura Wheel, and Psychic Fangs. This specific selection not only enhances its coverage but also imposes significant debuff pressure, as Psychic Fangs can decrease the defenses of the opponent. Coupled with its strong attack stat, Morpeko presents a substantial threat if not effectively countered.

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