Steel-type Pokemon weaknesses & resistances explained

Sam Smith
Steel-type weaknesess

If you’re getting clamped down on by Steel-type Pokemon like Metagross, Dialga, or Steelix, here’s how to take advantage of their weaknesses in battle, and how to bring them down with the best counters. We’ll also include the details of their resistances so you’re fully prepared.

Steel-type Pokemon are considered to be some of the most powerful creatures there are. To some fans, Steel types are the best and most hardy type you can use, so they choose to fill their roster with powerful metal Pokemon. They’re great when they’re on your team, but your opponents will also field them in battle.

However, as with any type in the Pokemon game series, Steel types can be countered and have their own set of weaknesses that can be exploited. Here’s what you need to know to survive an encounter with a Steel-type in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet or any other main series game – and to come out victorious.


Contents


The Steel-type Metagross in the Pokemon anime
Metagross is a fan-favorite Steel-type Pokemon

Steel-type Pokemon weaknesses

Steel-type Pokemon have three primary weaknesses when it comes to moves and opposing Pokemon types:

Therefore, when looking to take down a Steel-type Pokemon, bring along a team that includes Pokemon that belong to those categories.

If you have a dual-type Pokemon that belong to two of these groups, even better. Groudon, for example, is a Fire and Ground-type Pokemon.

Best counters for Steel-type Pokemon

When coming up against Steel types, Pokemon like Infernape, Blaziken, and Emboar are reliable counter options. These are all Fire types that also make use of their secondary typings.

Always bear in mind a Pokemon’s secondary type when selecting your counter Pokemon and moves. While the above three examples are effective against Steel types, the opposing Pokemon may have resistances based on their primary/secondary type.

Dialga appearing in the pokemon go master league
Dialga is a legendary dual Steel-type Pokemon.

Steel-type Pokemon strengths & resistances

As well as having weaknesses, Steel-type Pokemon are also resistant to certain other types and moves. Steel-type Pokemon are resistant to the following types:

Pure Steel-types are also immune to Poison-type attacks, so bear this in mind when heading into battle.

What is a Steel-type Pokemon?

Steel-type Pokemon are usually pretty easy to spot due to their metallic-looking bodies or robot-style design. They look shiny and futuristic when compared to other Pokemon.

They are often dual-type Pokemon themselves, however, some are pure Steel-type Pokemon and these are often the toughest ones in battle. The good news is, that they can be defeated by taking advantage of their weaknesses and by fielding Pokemon that are effective against them.


So, that’s all of the weaknesses and resistances you need to know about to help you knock down Steel-type Pokemon in the series. For more Pokemon lists, check out some of our other guides below:

Water-type | Grass-type | Fighting-type | Psychic-type | Electric-type | Bug-type | Ghost-type | Steel-type weaknesses | Ice-type weaknesses | Fairy-type weaknesses |Legendary Pokemon | All cat Pokemon | All dog Pokemon | Creepiest ‘mon | Cutest Pokemon | The rarest and most expensive Pokemon cards | 10 best ROM hacks and fan-made games | Lucario weaknesses | Drifblim weaknesses

About The Author

Sam is a Senior Games Writer for Dexerto specializing in Survival Horror, Diablo, Final Fantasy, and Soulslikes. An NCTJ accredited journalist, Sam also holds a degree in journalism from the University of Central Lancashire and has many years of experience as a professional writer. Being able to marry his love of writing with his addiction to video games was always one of his life goals. He also loves all things PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo in equal measure. Contact at sam.smith@dexerto.com