Gigantamax Kingler Counters: Top Tips and Tricks

As a formidable 6-Star Raid boss making its debut in *Pokemon GO*, Gigantamax Kingler poses a unique challenge that requires Trainers to carefully select counters with the right movesets to exploit its limited vulnerabilities. Set to appear during its Max Battle Day on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 05:00 PM local time, this giant evolution of Krabby will demand a well-prepared raid party to bring it down.

Gigantamax Kingler Weaknesses & Resistances in Pokemon GO

As a pure Water-type, much like its base form in *Pokemon GO*, Gigantamax Kingler has only two weaknesses: Grass- and Electric-type attacks, which deal 160% super-effective damage. Conversely, it resists Fire-, Water-, Steel-, and Ice-type moves, with these inflicting only 39% damage. It's crucial for Trainers to steer clear of using these resisted types in battle.

Best Counters Against Gigantamax Kingler in Pokemon GO

Image via Niantic/The Pokemon Company To effectively defeat Gigantamax Kingler in *Pokemon GO*, Trainers should focus on Electric- and non-pure Grass-type counters like **Venusaur, Ivysaur, and Zapdos**. Remember, only Pokemon that can Dynamax or Gigantamax are allowed in these battles, narrowing down the options, yet there are still reliable choices available:

While other counters such as the Grass-type Rillaboom are viable, caution is advised due to Gigantamax Kingler's potential moveset, which includes Bubble, Mud Shot, Metal Claw, Vise Grip, Water Pulse, Crabhammer, Razor Shell, and the Bug-type X-Scissor. This last move is super-effective against pure Grass-types. Fortunately, Venusaur and Ivysaur's dual Grass/Poison typing neutralizes the impact of X-Scissor.

Similarly, the Ground-type move Mud Shot poses a threat to Electric-and-Poison types like Toxitricity, but Zapdos, being part-Flying, remains safe from this. Prioritizing counters with moves that match their type will grant a 20% STAB (same-type attack bonus), enhancing their effectiveness. However, non-matching types like Greedent, Dubwool, and Cryogonal, who can still utilize Grass- or Electric-type moves, serve as excellent backups, taking only neutral damage from Kingler's attacks.

For those with limited super-effective options, neutral tanks such as Blastoise or Lapras can act as strong defenders.

Related: Pokémon GO Shadow Regirock Raid Guide: Best Counters, Tips, and Tricks

Can Gigantamax Kingler be Shiny?

Yes, Gigantamax Kingler can appear as a Shiny in *Pokemon GO*, as announced in the game's Max Battle Day event post. After defeating Gigantamax Kingler, there's a chance to encounter and catch a Shiny version, though the odds are not officially confirmed. We estimate the likelihood to be 1 in 20, aligning with the Shiny rates for 5-Star Raid bosses.

Don’t Forget Max Mushrooms

If your raid party struggles against Gigantamax Kingler, consider using Max Mushrooms, available for purchase in *Pokemon GO*. These items temporarily double the damage output of your Dynamax and Gigantamax Pokemon for 30 seconds, though they are costly at 400 PokeCoins each. When used strategically, Max Mushrooms can significantly boost your chances of victory.

Now that you're equipped with the knowledge on how to counter Gigantamax Kingler during its Max Battle Day, be sure to check out the *Pokemon GO* event schedule to stay updated on other exciting events throughout February.