Azelf Pokemon GO Guide: Shiny Azelf Hunting, Counters, and More

Azelf Pokemon GO, alongside Uxie and Mesprit, brought a new level of complexity and challenge to the game. These Pokémon are unique in their regional exclusivity, often making them a sought-after addition for collectors and battlers alike. Azelf has been featured in various special events, including limited-time raids and research tasks, making its availability both rare and highly anticipated. Its role as the Being of Willpower, coupled with its powerful Psychic-type abilities, makes Azelf a valuable asset in both PvP battles and raid encounters.

In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Azelf in Pokémon GO. From the rich lore surrounding this mythical creature to the best methods for catching it, we’ll provide detailed insights into its strengths, weaknesses, and ideal moveset. We’ll also discuss Azelf’s role in the game, including its appearances in special events and its coveted shiny variant. Whether you’re aiming to add Azelf to your collection or optimize it for battles, this comprehensive guide has you covered.

Understanding Azelf Pokemon GO

Background and Lore:

Azelf, known as the Being of Willpower, is one of the three Lake Guardians in the Pokémon universe, along with Uxie and Mesprit. This trio is deeply rooted in the mythology of the Sinnoh region, where they are said to reside in separate lakes, guarding the balance of emotion, knowledge, and willpower. Azelf, in particular, is believed to bestow the ability to make firm decisions to those who encounter it. Its lore speaks of its immense power to control the will of others, making it a formidable figure in Pokémon mythology. In Pokémon GO, Azelf continues to hold this aura of mysticism, often appearing during special events that highlight its legendary status.

Stats and Typing:

In Pokémon GO, Azelf is a pure Psychic-type Pokémon, which grants it several specific strengths and vulnerabilities. It has a max CP of 3,210, with notable base stats: 270 Attack, 151 Defense, and 181 Stamina. These stats make Azelf a strong offensive option, particularly in PvE scenarios like raids. However, its Psychic typing also means it is weak to Bug, Dark, and Ghost-type moves, while it resists Fighting and Psychic-type attacks. This combination of strengths and weaknesses makes Azelf a specialized attacker in certain contexts.

Azelf’s Role in Events:

Azelf has been featured in numerous Pokémon GO events, each providing unique opportunities for trainers to encounter this legendary Pokémon. Notable appearances include its debut during the “Lakes of the Pokémon World” event, where it was available in raids across the Americas. Additionally, Azelf has been a part of special research tasks and global challenges, often coinciding with major Pokémon GO events. These occasions have not only allowed players to capture Azelf but also to encounter its shiny variant, making it a highly prized Pokémon during these periods.

Catching Azelf Pokemon GO

Encounter Methods

Wild Encounters: Finding Azelf in the wild is an exceptionally rare occurrence. Generally, it is region-locked to the Americas, and even then, it has appeared only during specific events. These wild encounters are typically random and occur very infrequently, making them a thrilling, albeit challenging, experience for trainers.
Raid Battles: The most common way to encounter Azelf in Pokémon GO is through raid battles. Azelf has frequently been featured as a tier 5 raid boss, requiring a group of trainers to defeat it. These raids are usually time-limited, aligning with special events or specific time frames announced by Niantic. Successfully completing these raids provides players with an opportunity to catch Azelf, with a chance for it to be shiny. During these events, Azelf appears at a variety of raid locations, making coordination with local players essential.
Field Research and Special Research Tasks: On occasion, Azelf has been included as a reward in field research tasks or special research. These tasks are typically linked to broader game events and offer players an alternative method to encounter Azelf outside of raids. While not as common as raid appearances, these tasks provide an exciting way to add Azelf to one’s collection, often with specific challenges or objectives to complete.

Regional Availability and Rotation

Azelf, Uxie, and Mesprit: Azelf, Uxie, and Mesprit are unique among legendaries in Pokémon GO due to their regional exclusivity. Azelf is typically available in the Americas, Uxie in Asia-Pacific regions, and Mesprit in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This regional rotation means that players must either travel, trade, or wait for global events that allow access to all three. Understanding this rotation is crucial for completing the Lake Guardian trio in your Pokédex.
Coordinate Sharing and Community Efforts: To catch these region-locked Pokémon, players often engage in coordinate sharing and global community efforts. Online communities and social media platforms become hubs for sharing raid coordinates and organizing remote raid groups. This practice has become especially prominent with the introduction of remote raid passes, allowing players to join raids across the world without physically traveling. Coordinating with the global community can significantly enhance your chances of catching Azelf and its counterparts.

Catch Rate and Techniques

Catch Rate Analysis: Azelf Pokemon GO catch rate is relatively low, typical of legendary Pokémon. This low catch rate makes it challenging to capture, even after successfully completing a raid. The base catch rate is further influenced by factors such as the quality of throws, the use of berries, and the Pokémon’s CP.
Effective Strategies: To maximize the chances of catching Azelf, players should employ several key strategies. Using golden razz berries increases the likelihood of a successful capture significantly. Additionally, practicing excellent curveball throws can further improve your chances. It’s important to wait for Azelf’s attack animation to finish before throwing the Poké Ball to avoid a wasted attempt. Understanding and utilizing these techniques can be the difference between catching Azelf and seeing it flee.

Also Read: Unveiling the Mysteries of Starry Skies Pokemon GO

Azelf Weaknesses and Counters in Pokemon Go

Type Matchup Analysis

Psychic-Type Weaknesses: In Pokémon GO, Azelf, as a Psychic-type Pokémon, has notable weaknesses to Bug, Dark, and Ghost-type moves. These types are particularly effective against Azelf, dealing increased damage. This makes Pokémon with moves of these types prime choices for countering Azelf in raids or PvP battles.
Resistance and Strengths: Azelf is resistant to Fighting and Psychic-type moves. This resistance reduces the damage Azelf takes from these types, making it more durable against opponents relying on these moves. Understanding these resistances is crucial when planning a battle strategy against Azelf, as it helps in selecting the most effective counters.

Top Counter Pokémon

Best Bug-Type Counters: For trainers looking to exploit Azelf’s weakness to Bug-type moves, Pokémon like Scizor and Yanmega are top contenders. Scizor, with its high attack stat and access to moves like Fury Cutter and X-Scissor, can deal significant damage quickly. Yanmega, with its combination of Bug Buzz and high speed, also serves as a formidable counter.
Best Dark-Type Counters: Dark-type Pokémon are another excellent choice against Azelf. Tyranitar with Bite and Crunch is one of the best options, offering both bulk and power. Darkrai and Weavile are also strong choices, with Darkrai’s Dark Pulse and Weavile’s Snarl/Foul Play combination providing efficient damage output.
Best Ghost-Type Counters: Ghost-types like Gengar and Chandelure are particularly effective against Azelf. Gengar‘s Shadow Claw and Shadow Ball deliver powerful hits, while Chandelure‘s Hex and Shadow Ball offer a blend of high attack and useful resistances.

Raid Battle Tips

Team Composition: When battling Azelf in raids, team composition is key. For beginners, using Pokémon like Scizor and Tyranitar is recommended due to their availability and effectiveness. Intermediate players can optimize their teams with Darkrai and Weavile, while advanced players might incorporate legacy moves or event-specific Pokémon to maximize efficiency.
Weather Considerations: Weather can significantly impact raid battles in Pokémon GO. For instance, cloudy weather boosts Dark-type moves, enhancing the effectiveness of counters like Tyranitar and Darkrai. Similarly, foggy weather boosts Ghost-type moves, benefiting Pokémon like Gengar and Chandelure. Trainers should always consider the weather to optimize their team selection and strategy.
Group Size and Coordination: To effectively raid against Azelf Pokémon GO players should consider their group size and coordination. Typically, a group of at least five to six trainers is recommended for a smooth raid experience. Coordinating with friends or using raid group finders can help gather a sufficient number of participants, ensuring a successful raid battle.

Azelf Best Moveset in Pokemon GO

Optimal Moves for PvE (Player vs. Environment)

Best Offensive Moves: For PvE scenarios like raids and gym battles, Azelf’s best offensive moveset is Confusion and Future Sight. This combination leverages Azelf’s high attack stat, allowing it to deal significant damage. Confusion provides a solid fast move option, while Future Sight is a powerful charge move that benefits from STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus).
Best Defensive Moves: If used for gym defense, though not its primary role, Azelf can utilize Confusion and Fire Blast. While Azelf’s defense stat is not its strong suit, Fire Blast can catch attackers off-guard, particularly if they are expecting a purely Psychic-type moveset.

Optimal Moves for PvP (Player vs. Player)

Great League, Ultra League, and Master League: In PvP battles, Azelf’s best moveset varies slightly depending on the league. In Great League, it’s rarely used due to its higher CP. In Ultra League, players might use Azelf with Confusion and Future Sight for a strong Psychic-type presence. In Master League, where power reigns supreme, Confusion and Future Sight remain optimal, but Azelf’s overall viability is limited compared to other meta Pokémon.
Role in PvP Teams: Azelf can serve as a niche pick in PvP, primarily as a lead or a surprise switch-in. Its high attack stat allows it to apply pressure quickly, but trainers must be mindful of its fragility and weaknesses. Using Azelf effectively often requires strategic timing and team support to cover its vulnerabilities.

Legacy and Event Moves:

Azelf has not had many legacy moves, but during certain events, specific moves may become available. Trainers should keep an eye on announcements for exclusive moves that could enhance Azelf’s performance in various battle scenarios.

Is Azelf Good in Pokémon GO?

Competitive Analysis

Comparison with Other Psychic-Types: When comparing Azelf to other Psychic-types like Mewtwo, Alakazam, and Espeon, Azelf holds its own due to its high attack stat. However, Mewtwo generally outperforms it due to its superior stats and versatile movepool. Alakazam and Espeon, while also strong attackers, lack the same durability, making Azelf a more balanced choice in certain scenarios.
Utility in Raids: Azelf excels as a raid attacker, particularly against Fighting and Poison-type bosses where its Psychic moves can deal super-effective damage. Its high attack stat ensures it can dish out significant damage, though it may require backup due to its lower defense and stamina.
Utility in PvP: In PvP, Azelf’s utility is more limited. While it can deal high damage, its lack of bulk makes it vulnerable, especially against Dark and Ghost-type attackers. It can be a surprising choice in certain matchups, but it is generally overshadowed by more versatile Psychic-types.

Azelf’s Role in Different Game Modes

Gym Defense: Azelf is not ideally suited for gym defense due to its weaknesses and relatively low defense stat. However, if used, its Psychic-type moves can provide decent coverage against specific threats. Trainers should prioritize other Pokémon with better defensive capabilities for gym defense.
Special Research and Field Tasks: Azelf has occasionally appeared in special research tasks and field tasks, offering players unique ways to encounter and capture it outside of raids. These opportunities are typically tied to special events, providing a chance to add Azelf to one’s collection or even encounter its shiny variant.

By understanding Azelf’s role and capabilities in Pokémon GO, trainers can effectively utilize this legendary Pokémon in various aspects of the game, from raids to PvP battles. Whether aiming for a powerful attacker or seeking to complete a collection, Azelf offers a unique blend of lore and gameplay potential.

Azelf, Uxie, and Mesprit: The Lake Trio in Pokémon GO

Trio Overview

Cultural and Mythical Significance: The Lake Trio, consisting of Azelf, Uxie, and Mesprit, holds a special place in Pokémon mythology. Representing willpower, knowledge, and emotion respectively, these Legendary Pokémon are considered the guardians of balance in the Pokémon world. Their lore suggests that they are protectors of their respective lakes and possess powers that influence the hearts and minds of humans and Pokémon alike. This deep cultural significance adds a mystical allure to encountering them in Pokémon GO.
In-Game Roles and Differences: In Pokémon GO, Azelf, Uxie, and Mesprit have unique stats and roles. Azelf, with the highest attack stat among the three, serves as a formidable offensive Pokémon, especially useful in raids. Uxie, on the other hand, has the highest defense and excels in PvP battles, particularly in the Great and Ultra Leagues. Mesprit balances the two with a more rounded stat distribution, making it versatile but not exceptional in any single aspect. The trio also differs in regional availability, adding an element of exclusivity and challenge in acquiring them all.

Global Events and Regional Rotations

Event History: The Lake Trio has been featured in various global events, providing trainers with opportunities to catch these elusive Pokémon. Notable events include special raids and limited-time challenges that rotate the availability of Azelf, Uxie, and Mesprit across different regions. These events often come with bonuses and increased spawn rates, making it easier for players to encounter and capture them.
Tips for Completing the Trio: To complete the Lake Trio collection, players must capitalize on international trading and timed events. Coordinating with trainers in different regions can facilitate trades for the missing trio members. Additionally, keeping track of event announcements and planning raid participation can maximize the chances of encountering each member of the trio during their regional rotation.

Shiny Azelf Variants and Their Availability

Shiny Release Details: The shiny forms of Azelf, Uxie, and Mesprit were introduced during specific events, each boasting a unique color palette that distinguishes them from their standard versions. The shiny release of these Pokémon has often been tied to special raid events, increasing the excitement and engagement among players.
Visual Differences: Shiny Azelf features a distinct blue hue, differentiating it from its regular color scheme. Shiny Uxie and Mesprit also display unique coloration, making them highly sought after by collectors. Shiny hunting for these Pokémon can be a thrilling challenge, often requiring patience and participation in multiple raids.

Also Read: The Rarest Pokemon in Pokemon GO: Catch Them All

Advanced Tips and Tricks for Azelf Pokemon GO

Maximizing Azelf Pokemon Go Potential

Best Buddy System: Setting Azelf as your Best Buddy in Pokémon GO offers several benefits, including an additional CP boost when it reaches the Best Buddy level. This CP boost can be crucial in maximizing Azelf’s combat potential, especially in high-level raids and battles. Additionally, as a Best Buddy, Azelf will follow the player on the map, adding a unique visual element.
Powering Up and IV Analysis: To optimize Azelf’s performance, trainers should prioritize powering it up based on high Individual Values (IVs). A focus on high attack IVs can maximize Azelf’s damage output. Managing resources like Stardust and Candy efficiently is essential, especially when investing in a Legendary Pokémon. It’s recommended to save these resources for Azelfs with the best IVs to ensure maximum returns.
Trading for Better IVs: Trading Azelf with other players is an effective strategy to obtain one with better IVs. The mechanics of trading can result in a random re-roll of IVs, potentially yielding a superior Azelf. Trainers should take advantage of lucky trades, which guarantee higher IV floors, to secure a top-tier Azelf for their collection.

Using Azelf in Special Situations

Seasonal Events and Bonuses: Seasonal events often come with bonuses such as increased spawns, experience points, and Stardust, which can indirectly benefit Azelf. Participating in these events can help trainers gather the necessary resources to power up and evolve their Pokémon. Additionally, these events may feature increased raid opportunities for Legendary Pokémon like Azelf.
Community Day Synergies: While Azelf itself has not been featured in a Community Day, moves and bonuses from these events can synergize with Azelf’s role. For example, Community Day moves for other Pokémon may pair well with Azelf in PvP battles, offering strategic advantages. Trainers should stay informed about upcoming Community Day events and plan accordingly to maximize their team’s potential.

Conclusion

Azelf Pokemon GO is a valuable and intriguing Pokemon, offering both gameplay advantages and a connection to the rich lore of the Pokémon universe. Whether you’re aiming to add it to your collection, use it in battles, or simply enjoy the thrill of encountering a Legendary Pokémon, understanding Azelf role, strengths, and strategies for capture and use is essential. With careful planning and the tips provided in this guide, trainers can maximize their experience with Azelf, Uxie, and Mesprit, enhancing their adventures in the world of Pokemon GO.

Additional Resources

For more in-depth strategies and updates, consider visiting the following resources:

These resources provide up-to-date information on events, guides, and community discussions to help you stay informed and connected with the Pokémon GO community.