Home News Defeating Cliff in Pokémon Go: Strategies Revealed

Defeating Cliff in Pokémon Go: Strategies Revealed

Author : Gabriel May 13,2025

In Pokémon GO, facing Cliff, a leader of Team GO Rocket, is a challenging encounter. However, with the right strategy and Pokémon selection, you can significantly increase your chances of emerging victorious.

How Cliff Plays?

pokemon go cliffImage: pokemon-go.name

Understanding Cliff's battle strategy is crucial before engaging him. The battle unfolds in three distinct phases:

In the first phase, Cliff consistently deploys Shadow Cubone, making this stage predictable. For the second phase, you'll need a bit of luck as Cliff may choose from Shadow Machoke, Shadow Annihilape, or Shadow Marowak. The final phase presents another set of choices, with Cliff potentially sending out Shadow Tyranitar, Shadow Machamp, or Shadow Crobat. Given the variability, selecting the right Pokémon to counter Cliff's unpredictable lineup is key.

Which Pokémon Are Best to Choose?

To effectively counter Cliff's Pokémon, consider their weaknesses and choose your team accordingly. Here are some top picks:

Shadow Mewtwo

Shadow MewtwoImage: db.pokemongohub.net

Shadow Mewtwo is an excellent choice, capable of tackling Shadow Machoke, Shadow Annihilape, Shadow Machamp, and Shadow Crobat. Positioning it strategically in the second or third phase can help you breeze through those stages.

Mega Rayquaza

Mega RayquazaImage: db.pokemongohub.net

Similar to Shadow Mewtwo, Mega Rayquaza can handle the same set of opponents. Placing it in the third phase alongside Shadow Mewtwo in the second can ensure a smooth progression through the final stages.

Kyogre

KyogreImage: db.pokemongohub.net

Regular Kyogre is effective in the first phase against Shadow Cubone. However, Primal Kyogre's enhanced power allows it to take on Shadow Tyranitar, Shadow Marowak, and Shadow Cubone, making it versatile for any phase with the right luck.

Dawn Wings Necrozma

Dawn Wings NecrozmaImage: db.pokemongohub.net

Dawn Wings Necrozma can only counter Shadow Annihilape and Shadow Machoke, making it less optimal for this battle due to its limited effectiveness.

Mega Swampert

Mega SwampertImage: db.pokemongohub.net

Mega Swampert is effective against Shadow Marowak and Shadow Cubone, suitable for the first phase. However, it's advisable to switch to a more versatile Pokémon in the second phase due to Cliff's unpredictable choice.

A recommended lineup could include Primal Kyogre for the first phase, Shadow Mewtwo for the second, and Mega Rayquaza for the third. If you lack any of these, you can adapt using other strong Pokémon from the list.

How to Find Cliff?

To challenge Cliff, you must first defeat six Team GO Rocket Grunts to gather the mysterious components needed to craft a Rocket Radar. Activating the Rocket Radar will reveal the location of a Team GO Rocket leader, with a 33.3% chance it will be Cliff.

pokemon go cliffImage: pokemongohub.net

Battling Cliff requires more preparation than facing Grunts, as he deploys stronger Shadow Pokémon. Losing allows for a rematch, but winning will destroy your Rocket Radar.

Confronting Cliff is a significant challenge that demands careful planning and the right Pokémon selection. His team, consisting of powerful Shadow Pokémon across three stages, can be effectively countered with versatile fighters like Shadow Mewtwo, Mega Rayquaza, and Primal Kyogre. Even without these specific Pokémon, you can adapt your strategy to leverage other strong fighters based on their strengths and weaknesses. Remember, encountering Cliff requires a Rocket Radar, obtained by defeating Team GO Rocket Grunts.

Latest Articles More
  • Unlock Google Play Bargains with G2A.COM

    While Google Play has a less polished feel than Apple's App Store, it leans into this accessible vibe. This results in a unique collection of apps and experiences you typically won't find on iPhone, for better or worse.It's also generally the place f

    Dec 18,2025
  • Ethereal Slayer: Choosing Your Sect

    Ethereal Slayer is an immersive fantasy MMORPG adventure that merges Eastern mythology with engaging PvP combat, spirit cultivation, and expansive open-world exploration. Among its standout features, the Sect System plays a vital role for newcomers a

    Dec 18,2025
  • Fractured Blooms DLC Opens Preorders

    Fractured Blooms made its debut at Summer Game Fest 2025! Discover everything you need to know about pre-orders, pricing, special editions, and upcoming DLC content.Fractured Blooms Pre-Order DetailsThe highly anticipated Fractured Blooms premiered a

    Dec 18,2025
  • Saudi Arabia Recruits LeBron James, Kevin Hart for Ad

    Dream Games has launched a major celebrity advertising campaign for Royal KingdomLeBron James, Jimmy Fallon and other stars feature in their own custom commercialsThe campaign aims to replicate the massive success of its predecessor, Royal MatchIf yo

    Dec 18,2025
  • 2023's Best Budget Gaming Laptops

    Finding an affordable gaming laptop can feel overwhelming when premium models often exceed $4,000. However, you don't need to spend a fortune for quality PC gaming on the go - the key is knowing where to compromise wisely. While sub-$1,000 "gaming" l

    Dec 17,2025
  • Marvel Snap Reintroduces High Voltage Mode

    Marvel Snap's lightning-fast battles are reaching new heights of excitementThe adrenaline-pumping High Voltage mode returns with electrifying gameplayThree-turn matches with boosted energy and curated card pools deliver nonstop actionSecond Dinner's

    Dec 17,2025