How to solo Shadow Whirlipede in Pokemon GO 3-star Shadow Raids

Shadow Whirlipede in Pokemon GO introduces a new level of difficulty for players. This Bug/Poison-type Pokemon, which boasts tough armor and a coiled design, has rolled its way into the three-star Shadow Raids. While it's not the strongest raid boss in the game, its defense stats and deceiving moveset can surprise unsuspecting players.

If you’re planning to take this one down solo, preparation is key. Having an understanding of its strengths, weaknesses, and the best counters is the difference between an easy victory and a frustrating defeat.

Let’s break down the best method to solo Shadow Whirlipede and how to deal with its raid-specific buffs.

Check out the current Pokemon GO raid bosses that you can encounter in-game

Best counters and strategy to solo defeat Shadow Whirlipede in Pokemon GO 3-star raids

The unbeatable top pick to beat Shadow Whirlipede in Pokemon GO is Mega Rayquaza with Air Slash (Fast Move) and Dragon Ascent (Charged Move). With this setup, it delivers a high DPS of 41.19, which quickly depletes Whirlipede’s defenses.

Some other strong options are:

Pokemon	Fast Move	Charged Move
Mega Rayquaza	Air Slash	Dragon Ascent
Shadow Mewtwo	Confusion	Psystrike
Mega Blaziken	Fire Spin	Blast Burn
Mega or Shadow Salamence	Fire Fang	Fly
Mega Y Charizard	Fire Spin	Blast Burn
Mega Alakazam	Confusion	Psychic
Shadow Chandelure	Fire Spin	Overheat
Mega Gallade	Confusion	Psychic
Shadow Moltres	Fire Spin	Sky Attack
Shadow Darmanitan	Fire Fang	Overheat
Mega or Shadow Latios	Zen Headbutt	Psychic
Mega Gardevoir	Confusion	Psychic
Shadow Heatran	Fire Spin	Magma Storm
Shadow Staraptor	Gust	Fly
Reshiram	Fire Fang	Fusion Flare
Mega X Charizard	Fire Spin	Blast Burn

It is important to note here that Whirlipede's defense increases dramatically when it is Enraged. To get through this stage before the 180-second timer goes off, you'll need heavy hitters prepared.

Also read: How to beat Shadow Whirlipede raids in Pokemon GO: Best counters, shiny odds, 100% CP, and more

Whirlipede as seen in the anime (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Shadow Whirlipede in Pokemon GO stats and moves as a raid boss

Type: Bug/Poison
Attack: 100 (+20%) [This goes up by 85% when the raid boss is Enraged]
Defense: 173 [This goes up 300% when the raid boss is Enraged]
Stamina: 3,600 HP
Fast Attacks: Bug Bite and Poison Sting
Charged Attacks: Sludge Bomb, Signal Beam, Gyro Ball, and Frustration

As a Bug/Poison- dual-type, Shadow Whirlipede is weak against Fire-, Flying-, Psychic-, and Rock-types (each dealing 160% damage). On the contrary, Shadow Whirlipede is resistant to Fighting- (39.1%), Grass- (39.1%), Bug- (62.5%), Fairy- (62.5%), and Poison- (62.5%) types, so avoid taking them to battle.

Shadow Whirlipede in Pokemon GO is completely soloable with the correct lineup and fast execution. Even though it might not seem like much of a threat in comparison to other raid bosses, underestimating it can result in a failed run, particularly when it is in its Enraged phase.

Also read: How to get Shiny Shadow Johto starters in Pokemon GO (Chikorita, Cyndaquil, and Totodile)

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About the author

Aashish is an esports and gaming writer at Sportskeeda, covering Pokemon, FC 24, and MMO. His educational background is in Mass Media and Music Production, but gaming always served as his favorite escape. Today, he has taken it up professionally.

A die-hard fan of the franchise, Aashish lives and breathes Pokemon. He has equal appreciation for single-player and multiplayer games. Nonetheless, if he had to recommend a game to a skeptic, it would be Guild Wars 2 due to its compelling storyline. However, if he were to go full throttle into the competitive side, Dota 2 would get his blood pumping.

Aashish prioritizes sourcing and reporting accurate, relevant, and ethical information. He relies heavily on official social media accounts to stay updated with what's going on. When not immersed in creating content, Aashish engages in music production and photography.

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Edited by Aashish Victor