Groudon Primal

Legal regulations: regulation-m-a

Primal Groudon is the definitive sun setter and one of the most dominant restricted Pokémon in Regulation M-A. Its Desolate Land ability turns the weather into harsh sunlight, which powers up its Fire STAB and nullifies the Water-type attacks that would normally answer it. Its signature move, Precipice Blades, provides a devastating Ground STAB that threatens most of the format, and its Attack stat is enormous. Its defensive typing is excellent, resisting the Fairy, Rock and Electric pressure of the format. Its weaknesses are the ones Ground and Fire types share — vulnerable to Ground and Water (the latter nullified by its own weather) — and it is not especially fast, so it relies on speed support. It also needs its weather to be respected, since losing it can expose it. It functions best as a lead that sets sun and applies immediate pressure, or as a mid-game breaker that punishes committed answers. Primal Groudon pairs well with partners that benefit from sun and with speed control that keeps it ahead. It is one of the format's most powerful and game-ending restricted picks.

Use this page to understand Groudon Primal's role in the current VGC metagame. Check the base stats and Level 50 benchmarks to plan your EV spreads. Review common moves, items, abilities and Tera types to see what the community uses most. The partners section shows which Pokémon pair well with Groudon Primal, while counters and checks highlight what to watch out for in team preview.

Last updated: July 2026 (Regulation Set M-A). Data is based on available competitive trends and editorial review.

Groudon Primal performs best when its role is clearly defined in team preview. As a Physical Attacker and Support Pokémon, focus on positioning it where it can execute its job without being forced into unfavorable exchanges. As a restricted Pokémon, it will attract significant counterplay — plan support and speed control around it.

When teambuilding, pair Groudon Primal with Pokémon that cover its type weaknesses (see counters section below) and provide the speed control or redirection it needs to function. Review the common moves and items section for established sets, then adjust based on your team's specific needs.