Shadow Absol in Pokemon GO has made its way into three-star Shadow Raids. This beautiful yet intimidating Dark-type Pokemon is a prized catch for many, particularly those wishing to secure its rare shiny variant. With its glass-cannon stats and visually striking appearance, Absol is a favorite among collectors and competitive players alike.
To win against it solo, you will need to know its weaknesses, the best counters to it, and a few battle tips to help you defeat it before the timer runs out. This guide will walk you through all that you need to know to solo Shadow Absol.
Note: The list in this article is not exhaustive. You might come up with a different strategy that works.
Check out the current Pokemon GO raid bosses that you can encounter in-game
Best counters and strategy to solo defeat Shadow Absol in Pokemon GO 3-star raids
When it comes to core damage output, Mega Lucario is your strongest weapon against Shadow Absol. With Force Palm and Aura Sphere at its disposal, Mega Lucario has an impressive DPS of 53.69, cutting down this Dark-type raid boss in no time.
Other strong options you can take with you to the battle:
As a pure Dark-type Pokemon, Shadow Absol in Pokemon GO takes 160% damage from Bug-, Fairy-, and Fighting-type attacks. Constructing your team around these types will make you deal the most damage against it and have the highest chance of winning.
On the other hand, Shadow Absol in Pokemon GO resists:
- Dark: 62.5% damage taken
- Ghost: 62.5% damage taken
- Psychic: 39.1% damage taken
Avoid using these moves, as they will dramatically lower your raid damage output.
Also read: How to beat Shadow Absol raids in Pokemon GO: Best counters, shiny odds, 100% CP, and more

Shadow Absol in Pokemon GO: stats and moves as a raid boss
- Type: Dark
- Attack: 246 (+20%) [This goes up by 85% when the raid boss is Enraged]
- Defense: 120 [This goes up 300% when the raid boss is Enraged]
- Stamina: 3,600 HP
- Fast Attacks: Psycho Cut and Snarl
- Charged Attacks: Dark Pulse, Thunder, Megahorn, Frustration, Payback and Brutal Swing*
Although Absol is not the most difficult raid boss in the game, its Shadow form does much more damage, so being prepared is important. Otherwise, a single mistake can immediately turn the fight around against you, particularly when Absol gets "Enraged."
With only 180 seconds on the clock, every second matters. Reduce downtime by having a solid backup team in place to jump back in if you faint.
Once Shadow Absol reaches its Enraged state, its attack and defense spike dramatically, so ensure your key counters are leveled up and capable of tanking the additional damage.
A well-prepared team, quick re-lobbies, and proper move selection can make Shadow Absol in Pokemon GO an easier raid boss to beat.
Also read: How to get Shiny Shadow Johto starters in Pokemon GO (Chikorita, Cyndaquil, and Totodile)
Check out our other Pokemon GO guides:
- Ditto disguises
- Buddy Evolution Adventure Together guide
- Best Fast Attacks in the game
- Sierra counters
- Cliff counters
- Arlo counters
- Giovanni counters
- Team GO Rocket Grunts
- Go Evolution Calculator
- Pokemon Type Calculator
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