Raikou

Legal regulations: regulation-m-a

Raikou is the Electric special attacker that brings one of the format's most reliable speed-control presences to Regulation M-A teams. Its speed tier is excellent, letting it outrun most of the format's non-restricted attackers, and its Electric STAB pressures the bulky Water and Flying cores that anchor defensive teams. Its access to coverage and support options, including Thunder Wave and Snarl, makes it a genuine team player rather than a one-note attacker. Its bulk is decent enough to absorb a hit, which is rare for a fast special attacker. Its weaknesses are the ones Electric-types always carry — vulnerable to Ground coverage — and its offensive output, while strong, is not elite, so it relies on speed and utility rather than raw power. It also fears the Ground-types that punish its typing. It functions best as a fast pivot that pressures the board or as a speed-control piece that adjusts the field's speed. Raikou pairs well with physical partners that handle the Ground-types it invites. It is a staple pick on balanced teams that want a durable, fast special presence with genuine speed control.

Use this page to understand Raikou'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 Raikou, 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.

Raikou performs best when its role is clearly defined in team preview. As a Special Attacker and Speed Control Pokémon, focus on positioning it where it can execute its job without being forced into unfavorable exchanges.

When teambuilding, pair Raikou 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.