The Dark-type was introduced in generation II as a way of offsetting the terrible inbalance issue of the Psychic type; Psychic type Pokemon were terribly strong and had virtually no weaknesses making teams of them impossible to beat.

Dark-type Pokemon typically have outstanding attack and speed stats but suffer defensively, making them sitting ducks against a Pokemon that knows Brick Break. Tyranitar and Umbreon are probably the only exception to this rule, as they have moderately good defensive stats. Dark-type Pokemon are completely immune to Psychic-type attacks and this makes them a great counter. Since Dark-type Pokemon are few in number, they are considered rare and powerful and highly sought after.

Dark-type attacks, although considered to be Special moves prior to Generation IV, are very, very effective against Psychic-type Pokemon. In Generation IV, all Dark-type attacks (with the exception of Dark-pulse) that do damage because physical moves. Coupled with the high attack power of many Dark-types and possible STAB, this makes for a deadly combination.

Recommended Dark-type Pokemon