Defeating Cliff in Pokémon Go: Tips and Strategies

Author : Joshua Apr 27,2025

In Pokémon GO, facing off against Cliff, one of Team GO Rocket's leaders, can be a daunting challenge. However, with the right team and strategy, victory becomes much more achievable. Let's delve into how Cliff plays, the best Pokémon to choose for the battle, and how to locate this formidable opponent.

How Cliff Plays?

pokemon go cliffImage: pokemon-go.name

Understanding Cliff's strategy is crucial before you engage him in battle. The encounter with Cliff is structured in three distinct phases:

  • First Phase: Cliff always leads with Shadow Cubone. This phase offers no surprises, making it the easiest to predict.
  • Second Phase: Here, you'll need some luck. Cliff might send out Shadow Machoke, Shadow Annihilape, or Shadow Marowak.
  • Third Phase: The final stage sees Cliff potentially deploying Shadow Tyranitar, Shadow Machamp, or Shadow Crobat.

Given the variability in the second and third phases, selecting the right Pokémon for each stage is challenging but crucial for success.

Which Pokémon Are Best to Choose?

To counter Cliff's Pokémon effectively, you need to exploit their weaknesses. Here are some top choices:

Shadow Mewtwo

Shadow MewtwoImage: db.pokemongohub.net

Shadow Mewtwo is an excellent choice, capable of defeating Shadow Machoke, Shadow Annihilape, Shadow Machamp, and Shadow Crobat, making it versatile for the last two stages.

Mega Rayquaza

Mega RayquazaImage: db.pokemongohub.net

Mega Rayquaza can tackle the same foes as Shadow Mewtwo. Strategically placing it in the third stage and Shadow Mewtwo in the second (or vice versa) can secure victory in the final stages of the battle.

Kyogre

KyogreImage: db.pokemongohub.net

Regular Kyogre is best suited for the first round, but Primal Kyogre can handle Shadow Tyranitar, Shadow Marowak, and Shadow Cubone, making it a flexible choice for any stage.

Dawn Wings Necrozma

Dawn Wings NecrozmaImage: db.pokemongohub.net

Dawn Wings Necrozma can only defeat Shadow Annihilape and Shadow Machoke, making it less optimal for this battle due to its limited effectiveness.

Mega Swampert

Mega SwampertImage: db.pokemongohub.net

Mega Swampert can tackle Shadow Marowak and Shadow Cubone, ideal for the first phase. However, it's advisable to switch it out for a more versatile Pokémon in the second phase due to the unpredictability of Cliff's choices.

A recommended lineup could be Primal Kyogre for the first phase, Shadow Mewtwo for the second, and Mega Rayquaza for the third. If you lack any of these, consider alternatives from the list provided.

How to Find Cliff?

To challenge Cliff, you must first defeat six Team GO Rocket Grunts to gather mysterious components and assemble a Rocket Radar. Activating the Radar gives you a 33.3% chance of encountering Cliff among the Team GO Rocket leaders.

pokemon go cliffImage: pokemongohub.net

Battling Cliff requires careful preparation and strategic selection of your Pokémon team. His use of powerful Shadow Pokémon across three phases necessitates versatile fighters like Shadow Mewtwo, Mega Rayquaza, and Primal Kyogre to counter the various threats effectively. Even without these specific Pokémon, you can adapt your strategy based on the strengths and weaknesses of other strong fighters. Remember, encountering Cliff hinges on obtaining a Rocket Radar through victories over Team GO Rocket Grunts.