The best competitive Pokémon returning with the Isle of Armor

The Isle of Armor is only a few weeks away from coming to Pokémon Sword and Shield, and that means many Pokémon will be returning to the games as well. Here are some of the best ones we know to be returning.

Scizor

Scizor has classically been a strong Pokémon, boasting a solid Bug/Steel typing that gives it a lot of type-resistances. It generally runs the moves Swords Dance and Bullet Punch. In such a configuration, it will use Swords Dance to increase its Attack by two stages, then use Bullet Punch as a STAB priority move. Oftentimes, Scizor will also run another coverage move along with an additional move like Roost or Protect.

Politoed

Anyone interested in making a Rain team will be thrilled to know that Politoed is returning. Its main appeal comes from its Hidden Ability, Drizzle, which makes it rain when it enters the battlefield. Rain works very well with Water-type Pokémon as well as Pokémon with abilities like Swift Swim and Rain Dish. Currently, the only other Pokémon with Drizzle is Pelipper, so this will give rain players another option.

Krookodile

Krookodile was popular in Pokémon Sun and Moon, and it’s returning with the Isle of Armor. It boasts decent speed and great attack along with a unique Ground/Dark-typing. Its Intimidate is always a great ability. It will be interesting to see how it fares with Dynamaxing as a mechanic.

Tangrowth

Tangrowth is tanky and has a decent ability in Regenerator. So far, Grass-types haven’t been the greatest in Pokémon Sword and Shield, but maybe Tangrowth will prove a valuable asset. With Rillaboom gaining access to the Ability Grassy Surge, Grass-types could see a small boost in power across the board.

Skarmory

Just because Corviknight exists now doesn’t mean Skarmory won’t find value. Skarmory has a far higher base defense stat and makes for a better defensive wall. Expect it to pop up in stall teams, especially in singles battles. It could easily stall out a Dynamax if it has a favorable matchup.

Be sure to stay tuned for more Pokémon news and guides, especially once the new DLC finally goes live!