Defeating Cliff in Pokémon Go: Strategies Revealed

In Pokémon GO, defeating Cliff, one of the leaders of Team GO Rocket, can be a challenging endeavor. However, with the right team and strategy, you can secure a victory against him. Understanding his battle phases and choosing the most effective Pokémon to counter his lineup is key to success.

How Cliff Plays?

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Cliff's battle strategy is structured across three distinct phases:

• Phase 1: Cliff consistently deploys Shadow Cubone. There are no surprises here, making it easier to plan your initial attack.
• Phase 2: This stage requires some adaptability as Cliff may choose from Shadow Machoke, Shadow Annihilape, or Shadow Marowak.
• Phase 3: The final phase presents another set of choices with Shadow Tyranitar, Shadow Machamp, or Shadow Crobat.

Given the variability in the second and third phases, selecting versatile Pokémon that can handle multiple threats is crucial.

Which Pokémon Are Best to Choose?

When planning your team to battle Cliff, consider the weaknesses of his Pokémon and choose counters accordingly. Here are some top picks that can help you navigate through the battle effectively:

Shadow Mewtwo

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Shadow Mewtwo is a powerhouse that can handle multiple threats from the last two stages, including Shadow Machoke, Shadow Annihilape, Shadow Machamp, and Shadow Crobat. Deploying it strategically in the second or third phase can significantly boost your chances of winning.

Mega Rayquaza

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Similar to Shadow Mewtwo, Mega Rayquaza can tackle the same opponents in the final stages. Using both in tandem, by placing one in the second stage and the other in the third, can lead to a smooth victory.

Kyogre

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The regular Kyogre is effective in the first phase against Shadow Cubone. However, Primal Kyogre steps up its game, capable of defeating Shadow Tyranitar, Shadow Marowak, and Shadow Cubone, making it a versatile choice for any stage of the battle.

Dawn Wings Necrozma

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While Dawn Wings Necrozma can only handle Shadow Annihilape and Shadow Machoke, it's not the most optimal choice due to its limited effectiveness against Cliff's lineup.

Mega Swampert

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Mega Swampert is effective against Shadow Marowak and Shadow Cubone, making it a good choice for the first phase. However, its utility diminishes in the subsequent phases due to the variability of Cliff's choices.

A recommended team setup could be Primal Kyogre for the first phase, Shadow Mewtwo for the second, and Mega Rayquaza for the third. If you lack any of these, consider other strong Pokémon from the list that align with your available options.

How to Find Cliff?

To challenge Cliff, you must first defeat six Team GO Rocket Grunts to collect mysterious components. These components are used to assemble a Rocket Radar, which, when activated, will lead you to a Team GO Rocket leader, with a 33.3% chance of encountering Cliff.

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Battling Cliff is a significant challenge that demands careful preparation and strategic team selection. His use of powerful Shadow Pokémon across three battle stages necessitates versatile fighters like Shadow Mewtwo, Mega Rayquaza, and Primal Kyogre to counter his threats effectively. Even without these specific Pokémon, you can adapt your strategy using other strong fighters, considering their strengths and weaknesses. Remember, to face Cliff, you'll need a Rocket Radar, which you can earn by defeating Team GO Rocket Grunts.