The 5 best competitive Pokémon from The Isle of Armor expansion

On June 17, Pokémon Sword and Shield players got access to The Isle of Armor expansion. We’ve had plenty of time since then to check out all the new Pokémon from the expansion. Here are the five best new (returning) Pokémon that you can find on the Isle of Armor.

5. Kingdra

Kingdra is most effective when it can make full use of its Swift Swim Ability, which doubles its speed in the rain. Kingdra’s Dragon-typing also gives it resistances to the Electric and Grass-type moves that often threaten Water-types.

To get the most out of Kingdra, you will want a Modest Nature and to invest all your EVs into special attack and speed. You should take Muddy Water or Hydro Pump as your Water-type move, Dragon Pulse or Draco Meteor as your Dragon-type move, and then Hurricane and Protect. Kingdra works best with a partner like Politoed or Pelipper who can set up rain with Drizzle.

4. Alakazam

Alakazam makes its return to Pokémon Sword and Shield with the Isle of Armor expansion and gains access to a great new Psychic-type move in Expanding Force. Since Expanding Force benefits heavily from Psychic Terrain, Alakazam works great with Indeedee, who can set up the terrain with its Ability, Psychic Surge.

Alakazam works best with a Timid Nature and maximum EV investment in speed and special attack. Expanding Force and Protect should be your main moves. Then, you can choose between Dazzling Gleam, Focus Blast, Shadow Ball, and Energy Ball for coverage moves.

3. Alolan Marowak

Alolan Marowak has a unique Fire/Ghost-typing, and its low base speed works extremely well in Trick Room teams. Its ability, Lightning Rod, works well with Pokémon that are weak to Electric-type moves, making it valuable on teams with Water-type partners as well.

Marowak wants a Brave Nature to drop its speed and raise its attack. Put all your EVs into attack and HP, with anything leftover going to special defense. For moves, run Flare Blitz, Poltergiest, Bonemerang, and Protect.

2. Porygon 2

Porygon 2 has always been one of Pokémon‘s best Trick Room setters, and it’s already seeing a lot of play. It has good bulk and special attack and works well as either a defensive or offensive Trick Room setter.

You have several options for how to use Porygon 2. You can choose to go with a Modest or Quiet Nature and invest in special attack, or you can go with a Sassy or Relaxed Nature and invest in defense and special defense. For moves, you should always take Trick Room and Recover. You can then choose between Tri-Attack, Thunderbolt, and Ice Beam for coverage.

1. Amoonguss

Amoonguss is a strong Pokémon due to its bulk and utility. It works great as a support alongside aggressive teammates. It can draw in enemy attacks with Rage Powder and put dangerous enemies to sleep with Spore.

If you’re using Amoonguss in a Trick Room team, you should invest in bulk with a Sassy Nature. If you’re using it on other teams, it works best with a Timid Nature and maximum speed and HP. You should always take Spore, Rage Powder, Protect, and Pollen Puff.

While these five Pokémon stand out, there are plenty of others to choose from on the Isle of Armor. Who are your favorites?