The era of Gen 6 Pokemon games marked a significant leap with the introduction of the Nintendo 3DS, elevating the gaming experience to a whole new level. Notably, Pokemon X and Y pioneered the beloved Mega Evolution mechanic, adding a captivating layer of complexity to battles and enabling certain creatures to evolve beyond their conventional potential. Although considered relatively easier by fans, Gen 6 games present challenges that players need to overcome.
One of the major challenges in Gen 6 games is the advent of Fairy types, a new addition to the series. Fairy types possess few weaknesses and numerous strengths, making them formidable opponents. As a result, players embarking on a Gen 6 playthrough must prepare strategies to effectively counter these powerful creatures.
The Ultimate Pokemon Team for a Triumphant Gen 6 Playthrough
While the Kalos Region may not have introduced as many new creatures as previous generations, it compensates by featuring an extensive regional Pokedex, incorporating a substantial number of returning Pokemon. Additionally, players have access to two starters: a Gen 6 starter at the beginning and a Gen 1 starter upon reaching Lumiose City for the first time. Consequently, players have a plethora of formidable creatures to construct their team, with several standouts that can ensure a seamless journey through the Kalos Region.
Delphox
The optimal Gen 6 starter for a Kalos playthrough is Fennekin, boasting advantageous typing against several of the region's Gym Leaders, particularly the first Gym led by Viola and her Bug types. Delphox proves invaluable against other Gym Leaders as well, including Ramos' Grass types, Clemont's Magneton, and even Korrina's Fighting types upon evolving into a Psychic type. Its utility extends into the late game, offering an advantage against the final Gym Leader, Wulfric, and his Ice types, as well as Elite Four Wikstrom and his Steel types.
Venusaur
Among the three Gen 1 starters Professor Sycamore offers in Lumiose City, opting for Bulbasaur over Charmander ensures no type overlap. Venusaur, a robust Grass type, provides significant utility against the second Gym's Rock types, while its secondary Poison typing proves exceptionally effective against Gen 6's Fairy types and Gym Leader Valerie. Furthermore, Venusaur's ability to Mega Evolve in Gen 6 positions it as a potent powerhouse, ideal for sweeping through battles.
Aegislash
Aegislash stands out as one of the most formidable Gen 6 Pokemon, obtainable early in the game with Honedge found on Route 6, before the second Gym. Its Steel/Ghost typing equips it to handle Gym Leader Grant's Rock types, Gym Leader Olympia's Psychic types, and the game's formidable Fairy types like Champion Diantha's Mega Gardevoir. Beyond its exceptional typing, Aegislash's Stance Change ability allows seamless transitions between defensive and offensive forms to adapt to battle dynamics.
Tyrantrum
Of the two fossil Pokemon available in Pokemon X and Y, Tyrantrum emerges as the superior choice, given its Rock/Dragon typing that provides outstanding offensive coverage. Its Rock typing grants it an upper hand against Gym Leader Clemont's Emolga, the rival's Flareon and Altaria, as well as several of Team Flare Leader Lysandre's Pokemon like Honchkrow and Gyarados. Including a Dragon-type in the team proves beneficial for countering other Dragon-type threats in Gen 6, while resisting Elite Four Malva's Fire types.
Hawlucha
Hawlucha stands as the first Fighting/Flying type in the Pokemon series, featuring the unique move Flying Press, dealing both Fighting and Flying damage. Available on Route 10 just outside Geosenge Town, it becomes pivotal for the battle against Gym Leader Korrina and her Fighting types. Additionally, it proves effective against Gym Leader Ramos' Grass types, Gym Leader Wulfric's Ice types, and even Gym Leader Clemont's Heliolisk, especially if it possesses the Limber ability to prevent paralysis.
Lapras
Adding to the team, Lapras, a Gen 1 creature, can be found while surfing on Route 12 and in Azure Bay. Not only does its Water-type prove useful against Lysandre's Pyroar and Elite Four Malva's Fire types, but its Ice typing equips it to counter Elite Four Drasna's Dragon types and Champion Diantha's Goodra. Despite the limited water routes in the Kalos Region, Lapras remains a valuable addition, particularly for surfing when required, such as in Victory Road.