The Greatest Pokémon to Beat Oricorio, From Lucario to Charizard 2025
Oricorio, the Dancing Pokémon, is a vibrant and versatile opponent in Pokémon battles. With its four distinct forms—Baile, Pom-Pom, Pa’u, and Sensu—each tied to a different type (Fire, Electric, Psychic, and Ghost, respectively), Oricorio poses a unique challenge. Its ability, Dancer, allows it to copy certain dance moves used by other Pokémon, making it a tricky foe to predict. To counter Oricorio effectively, you need Pokémon that can exploit its weaknesses, withstand its attacks, and outmaneuver its strategies. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the greatest Pokémon to take down Oricorio, starting with Lucario and ending with the iconic Charizard, while covering other stellar choices along the way.
Master the Meta
Understanding Oricorio’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Common weaknesses across all forms include Rock (4x due to Flying) and Electric (effective against most forms). Oricorio’s stats are modest, with a focus on Special Attack and Speed, but its low defenses make it vulnerable to hard-hitting moves. Its Dancer ability can also be a double-edged sword, as it may copy moves that don’t benefit it or even harm it (e.g., copying a stat-lowering move).
With this in mind, let’s explore the top Pokémon to counter Oricorio, starting with Lucario.
Lucario: The Aura-Powered Counter
Why It Works: Lucario is a fantastic choice against Oricorio, particularly the Pa’u and Sensu forms, thanks to its Steel typing. Steel resists Psychic and Ghost moves, and Lucario’s Fighting type gives it an edge against Dark-type moves that Sensu might carry. Additionally, Lucario’s access to Rock-type moves like Stone Edge or Rock Slide exploits Oricorio’s 4x Rock weakness across all forms.
Recommended Moveset:
- Aura Sphere (reliable STAB Fighting move for consistent damage)
- Flash Cannon (STAB Steel move to hit Pa’u and Sensu hard)
- Stone Edge (targets Oricorio’s Flying type for massive damage)
- Extreme Speed (priority move to finish off weakened Oricorio)
Strategy: Lucario’s high Speed and Special Attack allow it to outspeed Oricorio in most scenarios. Use Stone Edge to deal devastating damage, especially if Oricorio hasn’t set up with moves like Calm Mind. If facing Baile Style, be cautious of Fire-type moves, but Lucario’s decent defenses should hold up long enough to land a knockout blow.
Garchomp: The Grounded Dragon
Why It Works: Garchomp is a powerhouse with excellent stats and access to Rock Slide, making it a universal threat to all Oricorio forms. Its Ground typing grants immunity to Electric moves from Pom-Pom Style, and its Dragon typing resists Fire from Baile Style. Garchomp’s high Attack and Speed ensure it can hit hard and fast.
Recommended Moveset:
- Rock Slide (hits 4x weakness on all forms)
- Earthquake (STAB Ground move for massive damage)
- Dragon Claw (STAB Dragon move for neutral damage)
- Swords Dance (boosts Attack to OHKO Oricorio)
Strategy: Garchomp can set up with Swords Dance if Oricorio tries to boost with Calm Mind or Work Up. Rock Slide is your go-to move, as it’s almost guaranteed to knock out Oricorio in one hit due to its low defenses. Be wary of Ice-type coverage moves from Pom-Pom or Sensu, as Garchomp is 4x weak to Ice.
Jolteon: The Electric Speedster
Why It Works: Jolteon’s Electric typing makes it a direct counter to Oricorio’s Flying type, hitting Baile, Pa’u, and Sensu forms super effectively. Its blazing Speed ensures it moves first, and its access to moves like Thunderbolt can knock out Oricorio before it can retaliate. Jolteon also resists Electric moves from Pom-Pom Style.
Recommended Moveset:
- Thunderbolt (STAB Electric move for high damage)
- Shadow Ball (coverage for Pa’u and Sensu)
- Volt Switch (pivot out if Oricorio sets up)
- Hidden Power Ice (targets Pom-Pom and Sensu)
Strategy: Lead with Thunderbolt to deal massive damage. If facing Pa’u or Sensu, Shadow Ball provides excellent coverage. Jolteon’s fragility means you’ll want to avoid prolonged battles, so aim for a quick KO. Watch out for Rock-type coverage moves, as Jolteon’s low defenses make it vulnerable.
Tyranitar: The Rock-Solid Behemoth
Why It Works: Tyranitar is a near-perfect counter to Oricorio, as its Rock typing allows it to hit all forms for 4x damage with moves like Stone Edge or Rock Slide. Its Dark typing resists Psychic and Ghost moves from Pa’u and Sensu, and its high defenses let it tank hits from Baile and Pom-Pom. Tyranitar’s Sand Stream ability can also chip away at Oricorio’s HP.
Recommended Moveset:
- Stone Edge (high-power Rock move for OHKOs)
- Crunch (STAB Dark move for Pa’u and Sensu)
- Earthquake (coverage for Pom-Pom)
- Stealth Rock (sets up residual damage)
Strategy: Tyranitar’s raw power makes it a straightforward counter. Open with Stone Edge for a Oricorio likely one-hit KO. If Oricorio survives, Crunch or Earthquake can finish the job, depending on the form. Be cautious of Fighting-type coverage moves, as Tyranitar is 4x weak to Fighting.
Charizard: The Fiery Legend
Why It Works: Charizard is a versatile and iconic choice to take on Oricorio. Its Fire typing resists Fire moves Oricorio from Baile Style, and its Flying type resists Fighting moves that Oricorio might carry. With access to Rock Slide via TM, Charizard can hit Oricorio’s 4x Rock weakness. Mega Charizard X’s Dragon typing adds resistances to Electric and Fire, making it even more effective.
Recommended Moveset:
- Rock Slide (targets 4x Rock weakness)
- Flamethrower (STAB Fire move for neutral damage)
- Dragon Claw (coverage for Mega Charizard X)
- Roost (heals to stay in the fight)
Strategy: Charizard’s high Speed and Special Attack let it compete with Oricorio’s pace. Use Rock Slide to exploit the Oricorio 4x weakness for a quick KO. If running Mega Charizard X, Dragon Claw provides solid neutral damage against Pa’u and Sensu. Be cautious of Electric moves from Pom-Pom and Rock coverage, as Charizard is weak to Oricorio both.
Honorable Mentions
While Lucario, Garchomp, Jolteon, Tyranitar, and Charizard are top-tier counters, other Pokémon can also shine against Oricorio:
- Aerodactyl: Rock/Flying type with access to Stone Edge and high Speed. Its Flying type resists Fighting moves, but it’s frail.
- Raikou: Another Electric-type speedster with Thunderbolt and Shadow Ball for coverage. Resists Electric and Flying moves.
- Rhyperior: Rock/Ground type with massive Attack and Rock Wrecker. Immune to Electric but weak to Water from Baile.
General Tips for Battling Oricorio
- Exploit the Rock Weakness: Every Oricorio form is 4x weak to Rock, so prioritize Pokémon with Rock-type moves like Stone Edge, Rock Slide, or Rock Wrecker.
- Watch for Coverage Moves: Oricorio may carry unexpected moves like Ice Beam, Shadow Ball, or U-turn. Oricorio Check its form and predict its movepool.
- Outspeed or Tank: Oricorio’s Speed is decent but not overwhelming. Fast Pokémon like Jolteon or bulky ones like Tyranitar can handle it effectively.
- Neutralize Dancer: Avoid using dance moves like Dragon Dance or Swords Dance, as Oricorio can copy them. Focus on direct damage.
- Consider Weather: Tyranitar’s Sand Stream or other weather effects can chip away at Oricorio’s low HP.
Conclusion
Oricorio’s unique forms and Dancer ability make it a fascinating opponent, but with the right strategy, it’s far from unbeatable. From Lucario’s versatile movepool to Charizard’s fiery power, the Pokémon highlighted in this guide Oricorio offer a range of options to counter Oricorio’s dancing prowess. Whether you prefer the raw strength of Tyranitar, the speed of Jolteon, or the adaptability of Garchomp, there’s a counter for every trainer’s style. So, prepare your team, exploit those Rock-type weaknesses, and send Oricorio back to the dance floor!
