History Characters / PokemonRecurringArchetypes

[[folder:Gender Based Counterparts]]

The first Pokémon you receive in the game. Entrusted to you by the regional Professor, they always come in three different types: Grass, Fire, or Water. Your rival gets one you don't choose, teaching a basic ElementalRockPaperScissors relationship between them.[[note]]Earlier games always have the rival choosing the starter stronger to yours, while some later games have the rival choosing the starter weaker to yours; some games have ''two'' rivals who take both.[[/note]] Since abilities were introduced, starters get one of three abilities that are type variants of each other: Overgrow, Blaze, and Torrent, which boosts the power of their primary type when their HP gets low. \\

[[folder:The Minor Legendary Team]]
!!The Minor Legendary Team
A group of legendaries designed around a single theme. Often referred to as legendary trios, they have since grown to include [[SixthRanger fourth rangers]] or just been a larger group to start with. Compared to the "mascot" Legendary teams, they are considerably less powerful, though still powerful among most other Pokémon, and therefore allowed in Battle facilities and official tournaments.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Legendary Birds[[note]]Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres[[/note]] (''Gen I''); Legendary Beasts[[note]]Raikou, Entei, and Suicune[[/note]] (''Gen II''); Eon Duo[[note]]Latios and Latias[[/note]] and Legendary Titans[[note]]initially Regirock, Regice, and Registeel; later Regieleki and Regidrago[[/note]] (''Gen III''); Lake Guardians[[note]]Uxie, Mesprit, and Azelf[[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Forces of Nature[[note]]Tornadus, Thundurus, Landorus, and later Enamorus[[/note]] and Swords of Justice[[note]]Cobalion, Terrakion, Virizion, and Keldeo[[/note]] (''Gen V''); Guardian Deities[[note]]Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, Tapu Bulu, and Tapu Fini[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Galarian Legendary Birds[[note]]Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres[[/note]] (''Gen VIII''); Treasures of Ruin[[note]]Ting-Lu, Chien-Pao, Wo-Chien, and Chi-Yu[[/note]] and Loyal Three[[note]]Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti[[/note]] (''Gen IX'')

* FireIceLightning: How they were introduced, though they've moved away from being strictly three members over time.
* InfinityMinusOneSword: They are not PurposefullyOverpowered like mascot Legendaries and even surpassed by fully evolved Pseudo-Legendaries in raw stats, but they are still quite powerful and are generally available far before the mascot Legendaries.
* OlympusMons: Albeit at the lower end of the scale when it comes to legendaries.
* OurCryptidsAreMoreMysterious: Whereas most people assume all legendaries are meant to be like gods, it's more common for minor legendaries to be akin to cryptids and in-universe urban legends -- the Legendary Birds in particular are clearly presented in the games as only being exceptionally rare and powerful and not truly godlike. Latios and Latias even moreso, as the Pokédex claims that they travel in groups.
* SequelEscalation: The original bird trio were essentially extremely rare and powerful animals. In every generation since, they have become more integral to the legends and lore of their respective regions, some outright being called deities.

* PinkMeansFeminine: Miltank, Cresselia, and the Hatenna line as a whole are all pinker than their male counterparts.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Rayquaza (''Gen III''); Giratina (''Gen IV''); Kyurem (''Gen V''); Zygarde (''Gen VI''); Necrozma (''Gen VII''); Eternatus (''Gen VIII''); Terapagos (''Gen IX'')

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Mew (''Gen I''); Celebi (''Gen II''); Jirachi (''Gen III''); Manaphy, Arceus and Shaymin (''Gen IV''); Victini and Meloetta (''Gen V''); Diancie and Hoopa (''Gen VI''); Magearna and Marshadow (''Gen VII''); Calyrex (DLC) (''Gen VIII''); Pecharunt (DLC) (''Gen IX'')

[[center: [- [[Characters/{{Pokemon}} Main Character Index]] > '''Recurring Archetypes''' -]]]

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Magikarp line (''Gen I''); Feebas line(''Gen III''); Wimpod line & Wishiwashi (''Gen VII''); Finizen line (''Gen IX'')

Items in the Pokémon series are generally represented by Pokéballs that litter the landscape or other items. However, due to this, several Pokémon have been introduced that take advantage of this fact, and bear a similar design in order to trick players into running into them. Generally they are fairly balanced in their stats, albeit excelling in a few areas and falling flat in others.

* AnimateInanimateObject: They're almost all based on Pokéballs.
* ChestMonster: Essentially what their gimmick is; tricking you into thinking it's an item before revealing it's a Pokémon. Voltorb, Foongus, and Galarian Stunfisk all resemble the Pokéballs that represent items on the overworld in their generations, while Greavard instead mimics the sparkling item pickups in ''Scarlet and Violet''.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: While the [[GameplayAndStorySegregation player]] may be tricked into activating a Voltorb or Electrode thinking it was an item ball, this is only because they use the [[GraphicsInducedSuperDeformed same icon on the world map]]. InUniverse, a Pokéball can fit in a ten-year-old's palm, while an Electrode is a little over ''three'' feet in diameter. In non-game material, they're simply living land mines rather than Pokéball fake-outs. Foongus is appropriately much smaller, and Stunfisk only shows its small Pokéball-shaped mouth while concealing the rest of its body.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Grimer line, Koffing line (''Gen I''); Gulpin line (''Gen III''); Trubbish line (''Gen V'); Varoom line (''Gen IX'')

* InterfaceSpoiler: While they're pitched as a duo of mascots, it's immediately obvious that most are actually part of a trio when you just look at the Pokédex. It's no surprise when Blastoise becomes the mascot of a ''Blue Version'' any more than Rayquaza getting an ''Emerald Version''. It was surprising that Zygarde never got a proper "Z Version", though.[[note]]''Pokémon Legends: Z-A'', rather than a true UpdatedReRelease of ''X and Y'', is part of the subseries launched with ''Legends: Arceus'' and more of a sequel/spin-off of the Kalos games.[[/note]]

A group that largely overlaps with the Version Mascots. They are generally a secret part of the lore between the paired mascots, and in turn become the mascots of the [[UpdatedReRelease enhanced version]]. Since each pair tends to incorporate a theme of duality, the Third Legendary often symbolizes balance between the two. Like the Version Mascots, their role has been largely codified in Gen III and IV.

* BreakingOldTrends: Eternatus isn't technically the third member of a group alongside Zacian and Zamazenta, but it's their arch-enemy. Its story is also resolved in the paired versions rather than in an UpdatedReRelease, and it's the ClimaxBoss of said versions' Legendary Pokémon plot instead of the respective Warrior Pokémon.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: Suicune is the first case of a Legendary Pokémon being used as the mascot of an UpdatedReRelease, but it belongs to an entirely different group than Lugia and Ho-Oh (but is implied to be subordinate to the latter), isn't the focus of the story of ''Crystal'' (though it is the focus of a sub-plot), and it doesn't have a SuperMode nor Dragon-typing.

** In the paired versions up until Generation VII, they are found as [[OptionalBoss Optional Bosses]] with little to no explanation or plot relevance. This allows them to be the focus of publicity for the UpdatedReRelease.
** Has become a ForgottenTrope from Generation VIII onwards. The "original" Third Legendary from that generation, Eternatus, is faced during the base game's story as the ClimaxBoss, and the changes in the main series's release model -- from UpdatedReRelease to DownloadableContent -- means that following plotline-relevant legendaries like Terapagos are the stars of their own DLC campaigns.

** Gen III and Gen IV are the main codifiers of the archetype, with Rayquaza and Giratina being the Version Mascot of the respective generation's UpdatedReRelease and belonging to the same trios as the original paired versions' mascots.
** Gen V and Gen VII experiment with the concept, each having a pair of [[UpdatedReRelease Updated Re Releases]] instead of a single one, whose mascot is the fusion between Kyurem/Necrozma and one of the paired versions' mascots.
** Gen VI eschews this completely, having no UpdatedReRelease and no role for poor Zygarde, until the release of ''Pokémon Legends: Z-A'' in Gen IX.

* CrutchCharacter: ZigZagged. Their decent starting level of 5 and quick access to their early game STAB move means that, barring a few inconvenient matchups, they can usually solo the early game with no issue. The game is designed for the player to rely on them at the outset [[ComplacentGamingSyndrome if not the entire game if they end up overleveled.]] They can all easily overpower generic trainers and early ComMons. When it comes to gyms, depending on them is a rough answer to DifficultyLevels for how much [[ThresholdGuardians grinding]] or [[ConvenientWeaknessPlacement catching]] and [[SocializationBonus trading]] it takes to win.[[note]]Famously, Bulbasaur and Squirtle Brock dealing 4x STAB damage to breeze through Brock on their own and at least having a defensive resistance to Misty, where Charmander is inconvenienced by dealing x0.5 to both and is weak to Misty's Bubblebeam, without getting an advantage on a gym until the fourth.[[/note]] Gen V goes out of its way to challenge this playstyle by giving the first gym the advantage with the Elemental Monkeys regardless of your choice in ''BW'', and then having a neutral Normal Gym up first for ''[=B2W2=]''.

* CrutchCharacter: ZigZagged. Their decent starting level of 5 and quick access to their early game STAB move means that, barring a few inconvenient matchups, they can usually solo the early game with no issue. The game is designed for the player to rely on them at the outset [[ComplacentGamingSyndrome if not the entire game if they end up overleveled.]] They can all easily overpower generic trainers and early ComMons. When it comes to gyms, depending on them is a rough answer to DifficultyLevels for how much [[ThresholdGuardians grinding]] or [[ConvenientWeaknessPlacement catching]] and [[SocializationBonus trading]] it takes to win. [[note]]Famously Bulbasaur and Squirtle Brock dealing 4x STAB damage to breeze through Brock on their own and at least having a defensive resistance to Misty, where Charmander is inconvenienced by dealing x0.5 to both and is weak to Misty's Bubblebeam, without getting an advantage on a gym until the fourth.[[/note]] Gen V goes out of its way to challenge this playstyle by giving the first gym the advantage with the Elemental Monkeys regardless of your choice in ''BW'', and then having a neutral Normal Gym up first for ''[=B2W2=]''.

** In Gen IV, Torterra is Grass/Ground, Infernape is Fire/Fighting, and Empoleon is Water/Steel, meaning every member is capable of dealing super-effective damage to the other two. [[note]]Except Empoleon, whose [=STABs=] are only neutral against Torterra, but Torterra has a double weakness to the [[IceMagicIsWater Ice Beam]] that Empoleon [[ComplacentGamingSyndrome is practically guaranteed to run]][[/note]]

** In Gen IX, Meowscarada is Grass/Dark, Skeledirge is Fire/Ghost, and Quaquaval is Water/Fighting, creating a reverse triangle along with the classic starter one. [[note]]Except for Skeledirge's Ghost type, which is only neutral against Quaquaval but is immune to its Fighting-type moves in turn[[/note]]

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Caterpie & Weedle lines (''Gen I''); Ledyba & Spinarak lines (''Gen II''); Wurmple branched lines [[note]]to Beautifly & Dustox[[/note]](''Gen III''); Kricketot line (''Gen IV''); Sewaddle & Venipede lines ("Gen V"); Scatterbug line (''Gen VI''); Grubbin line (''Gen VII'') Blipbug line (''Gen VIII''); Tarountula & Nymble lines (''Gen IX'')

* StatusEffects: The Caterpie's have a tendency to learn the "powder" moves usually used by Grass-types, such as Stun Spore, Sleep Powder, and Poison Powder.

As the first Generation came with version exclusive pairs, sometimes this archetype comes in twos.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Oddish line & Bellsprout line (''Gen I''); Lotad line & Seedot line (''Gen III''); Budew line [[note]]Roselia debuted alone in Gen III, but gained a pre-evolution and stone evolution in Gen IV making it this for ''Diamond & Pearl'', not its native ''Ruby & Sapphire''[[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Cottonee line & Petilil line (''Gen V''); Bounsweet line (''Gen VII'')

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Paras line (''Gen I''); Shroomish line (''Gen III''); Foongus line (''Gen V''); Morelull line (''Gen VII''); Toedscool line and Brute Bonnet [[note]]by way of being related to Amoongus[[/note]] (''Gen IX'')

* StatusEffects: In addition to their sleep-inducing Spore move, they also share the Effect Spore ability (except for Toedscool, who has an exclusive ability), allowing contacting moves a 30% chance of triggering poison, paralysis, or sleep on the opponent. Notably, Effect Spore is only found on this archetype as a normal ability, with other Pokémon only receiving it as a hidden ability.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Pikachu line (''Gen I''); Pichu [[note]]Can be lumped with the Pikachu line, but a newly introduced baby form for Gen II that [[WordOfGod was meant]] to be "the next Pikachu"[[/note]] and Marill line[[note]]A water type with some design similarities that was popular pre-release[[/note]] ("Gen II"); Plusle & Minun (''Gen III''); Pachirisu (''Gen IV''); Emolga (''Gen V''); Dedenne (''Gen VI''); Togedemaru and Mimikyu[[note]]Togedemaru is a straighforrwad example, Mimikyu is a Ghost type that deliberately but poorly mimics Pikachu in order to make friends[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Morpeko (''Gen VIII''); Pawmi line (''Gen IX'')

* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: The archetype is a series staple, but Generation II didn't exactly follow it to the letter. The [[WordOfGod intended]] [[https://www.ign.com/articles/2009/02/23/pokemon-creators-on-platinum Pikaclone is Pichu,]] a pre-evolution for Pikachu rather that a unique new line. The fanbase also took to Marill line, which debuted early in the anime and had incidental similarities to Pikachu such as a rodent design, zig-zagging tail, two-stage evolution, with a baby pre-evolution introduced a generation later, and placement in the Fairy egg group. It was even given the FanNickname "Pikablu" in its day. The archetype wasn't well and truly established until Generation III, where Plusle and Minun established the obligatory non-evolving electric rodent for each generation from then on.

* SpotlightStealingSquad: Despite having a "new Pikachu" in every Generation, the original Pikachu always sticks around to get top billing. For example marketing often packages the three new starters and Pikachu, rather than the three new starters and the new Pikaclone, despite Pikachu only officially having starter status in Kanto. Even ''Anime/PokemonHorizonsTheSeries'' (post Ash retirement) puts the new Captain Pikachu in a more prominent role than the Pawmi that roams around the ship.

Water-type Pokémon that share a common quirk: they start out very weak, but can achieve high stats. The way they do this is dependent on the species: Magikarp itself must reach Level 20 but the others require a special gimmick to evolve and/or achieve their special powerful forms. While there are several Pokémon that go under the umbrella of MagikarpPower (The bugs, pseudo-legendaries, Abra only using Teleport to Alakazam being a GameBreaker, and Cosmog going from sharaing Magikarp's stat total to sharing Mewtwo's in its final form etc.) these Water-types tend to have this be their defining characteristic.

* NecessaryDrawback: The ability-based members of the archetype have base stats that surpass Pseudo-Legendaries (totaling above 600) but have a catch to them that prevents their SuperMode from being superior to a normal evolution.

* SuperMode: Wishiwashi achieves its power not through evolution, but through its ability once it reaches Level 20. Finizen on the other hand composites the Feebas and Wishiwashi methods by evolving through a SocializationBonus, then achieving its own special form through its ability.

** Feebas from Feeble. Wimpod from Wimpy. Wishiwashi from wishy-washy. The most complimentary is of them, Finizen, comes from [[{{Muggle}} ordinary citizen]], in contrast to its superhero-like evolved form.

A multi-stage Psychic-type line most notable for being among the most human-looking Pokémon, usually looking rather feminine. Being Psychic-types they naturally have great special-oriented stats offset by poor physical stats with HP and Speed being hit-or-miss, usually with a stat total in the low 500s. They often take time to train up but when fully evolved make very good partners well into the late game.

* CuteMonsterGirl: Due to their highly feminine appearances, the Ralts, Gothita, and Hatenna lines are very cute in each stages. Adding to this, the Gothita line has a 3 females to 1 male ratio, while Hatenna is entirely female. This may have been inspired by the entirely female Jynx line, which were also part Psychic. However Jynx is more used by Ice specialists like Lorelei over Psychic specialists, and was part of a trio with [[FireIceLightning Magmar and Electabuzz]] before becoming OutOfFocus.

* MagikarpPower: They start out very underwhelming and take a while to reach their final forms, but once they do they get a massive increase in power. As an example, Ralts has lower stats than the TropeNamer and Kirlia is the weakest of all non-cocoon evolved Pokémon, yet both Gardevoir and Gallade are strong Pokémon both capable of Mega Evolution.

* ChestMonster: Essentially what their gimmick is; tricking you into thinking it’s an item before revealing it's a Pokémon. Voltorb, Foongus, and Galarian Stunfisk all resemble the Pokéballs that represent items on the overworld in their generations, while Greavard instead mimics the sparkling item pickups in ''Scarlet and Violet''.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: While the [[GameplayAndStorySegregation player]] may be tricked into activating a Voltorb or Electrode thinking it was an item ball, this is only because they use the [[GraphicsInducedSuperDeformed same icon on the world map.]] InUniverse a Pokéball can fit in a ten year olds palm, while an Electrode is a little over ''three'' feet in diameter. In non-game material they're simply living land mines rather than Pokéball fake-outs. Foongus is appropriately much smaller, and Stunfisk only shows it's small Pokéball shaped mouth while concealing the rest of its body.

* LandSeaSky: The Grimer, Koffing and Trubbish lines are based on liquid, gaseous, and solid waste respectively, forming a take on this trope focused on pollution.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Magnemite line (''Gen I''); Beldum line (''Gen III''); Klink line (''Gen V''); Honedge line (''Gen VI'');
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Alolan Diglett line[[note]]Only has two evolutionary forms, are also based on organic creatures.[[/note]], Meltan line[[note]]Only two evolutionary forms, and the second form, unlike the others of this archetype, are a full on fusion between the Meltan[[/note]], (''Gen VII'');Gimmighoul line[[note]]Only has two evolutionary forms, the first form isn't a Steel-Type.[[/note]] (''Gen IX'')

* ExtraOreDinary: All members of this archetype are Steel-types. Diglett is pure Ground but got a Steel regional form, though it’s still only a two stage evolution.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Omanyte & Kabuto lines and Aerodactyl (''Gen I''); Lileep & Anorith lines (''Gen III''); Cranidos & Shieldon lines (''Gen IV''); Tirtouga & Archen lines (''Gen V''); Tyrunt & Amaura lines (''Gen VI'') Dracozolt, Dracovish, Arctozolt, and Arctovish (''Gen VIII'')

* DeconstructedCharacterArchetype: The Dracozolt, Dracovish, Arctozolt, and Arctovish Pokémon are MixAndMatchCritters that CameBackWrong as a result of a faulty FossilRevival process.

* LaterInstallmentWeirdness: The Galarian fossils break several conventions of previous fossil mons. They are not Rock-type, there are four of them, none of them evolve (unlike the fossil mons from every previous generation (except for Gen I)), and they don’t have the typical gender ratio of 7 males to 1 female that all previous fossil mons have since they [[NoBiologicalSex don’t have a gender at all]], presumably because they’re [[MixAndMatchCritters combinations of body parts from completely different species]].

** The Dracozolt, Dracovish, Arctozolt, and Arctovish Pokémon, due to not being part of a duo, having no evolutions, lacking the Rock-type, and not being true prehistoric creatures. Instead, each of these Pokémon is created through a combination of two different fossils, one for the body and one for the head. The combination of fossils determines the Pokémon's types, none of which are Rock-type. And none of these Pokémon ever actually existed in nature, instead being chimerae artifically created from different parts of Pokémon that did exist.

Because the games are paired, several Pokémon mirror each other (foils, rivals, [[VersionExclusiveContent version exclusive counterparts]] etc.) to [[SocializationBonus encourage trading.]] Some pairs however go further than most. These pairs are so closely related that they have all the hallmarks of being an evolutionary family, but typically aren't linked by evolution in game. The games consistently make a point to pair them in their appearances. Notably, Gen III introduced a lot of these alongside double battles.

They look alike, have similar names, and share a base stat total as if from branching evolutions. Despite having all the hallmarks of being an evolutionary family they are not directly linked in gameplay.

** Hitmonlee and Hitmonchan were unrelated in Gen I. In Gen II they got a baby form and a third member. No other pairs have ever been retroactively linked like this.
** Pinsir and Scyther were just version exclusive counterparts in Gen I. Both received evolutions in Gen II's betas. Somewhere in development however it was decided to separate Pinsir and Heracross into a cross-gen thematic duo, while Scyther still evolved into Scizor. Down the road this also had the weird effect of giving us Mega Pinsir, Heracross, and Scizor, but because only fully evolved Pokémon are capable of mega evolution, there is no Mega Scyther.
** Scyther and Scizor. Uniquely, the thematic duo here is formed from a Pokémon and its immediate evolution. Scyther is ''the only'' Pokémon that doesn't change base stat total upon evolving. Scyther and Scizor are equally powerful, just differently balanced (like all other thematic duo pairs). This would be reprised with Hisuian Kleavor making them three that share stat totals.

Two complementary single-gender species. These Pokémon take sexual dimorphism to the point of literally being different creatures. The Nidoran's may have been separate lines because Gen I predated assigning gender to almost every Pokémon. However later Gen's would introduce all female and all male separate species, some of which produce eggs that hatch into either. And while legendaries are typically of the genderless undiscovered gender group in gameplay, in lore they sometimes get this treatment too.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Nidoran female & male lines (''Gen I''); Tauros and Miltank ("Gen I and Gen II"); Volbeat & Illumise, Latios & Latias (''Gen III''); Rufflet & Vullaby lines (''Gen V''); Solgaleo and Lunala[[note]]Genderless in game, but described as gendered evolutions of the Cosmog line, Solgaleo male and Lunala female[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Hatenna & Impidimp lines (''Gen VIII''); Zacian and Zamazenta[[note]]Genderless in game, but described as siblings, Zacian the sister and Zamazenta the brother[[/note]] (''Gen VIII'')

* PinkGirlBlueBoy: Played straight with Latias. Inverted on three occasions. Nidoran female is blue, while the male is a pinkish purple. Volbeat is a red male to Illumise's blue female. Zacian is Cyan and Zamazenta is a dark Magenta color
* PinkMeansFeminine: Miltank, Cresselia and the Hatenna line as a whole are all pinker than their male counterparts.

Pokémon that are direct territorial rivals to each other, possibly as a predator/prey relationship. Note while some Pokémon are said to hunt others (from Pidgeot eating Magikarp to Tinkaton hunting Corviknight) these Pokémon are made with their predator relationship top of mind, often in how they're grouped in the Pokédex or in their very builds.

* CarnivoreConfusion: The Pokémon series stresses the personhood of each monster making a point that battles are purely for sport, and being coy about whether even humans eat them. These pairs are straight up about them attacking and eating each other in a more animalistic way.

** Yungoos is an invasive species introduced to quell the Rattata population, but they became nocturnal and took on Alolan forms to avoid them. In their evolved forms Gumshoos is a detective where Raticate is a mob boss.

** Kommo-o and Hydreigon both possess two of the three types that are weak to Fairy-type attacks, making them both doubly weak to them.[[note]]The latter was originaly an [[AvertedTrope aversion]] [[{{Nerf}} before the introduction of the Fairy-type]].[[/note]]

** Metagross, Kalosian and Hisuian Goodra, Dragapult and Baxcalibur all [[AvertedTrope avert]] this, as Kalosian Goodra has only one type, and the others' typings don't result in stacked weaknesses (although Dragapult is weak to both of its own types, and Baxcalibur's Ice type leaves it with several regular weaknesses).
* BreakoutCharacter: The pseudo-legendaries are routinely among the most popular and iconic Pokémon of their generations, being subjected to heavy marketing, being used as the ace Pokémon for major endgame trainers, and most games will have past pseudo-legendaries natively available. Even less popular pseudo-legendaries like Kommo-o and Salamence still rank very high in popularity polls.

* {{Foil}}: The Pseudo-Legendaries to to the Early Bugs. Both archetypes are three-stage Pokémon, but while the Early Bug is very easy to evolve but gets outclassed later than the early game, the Pseudo-Legendary is difficult to evolve, but is highly rewarding to use in the late game. The contrast is best shown off by the Larvitar and Bagon lines, both of which have clear larval, pupal, and imaginal stages like the Early Bug.

* UltimateLifeForm: Paradox Pokémon, which are seemingly versions of Pokémon from the past or future, generally have superior base stat totals than their current forms, implying that these mons were and/or will become stronger at some point in their evolutionary history. The only exceptions are the three Paradoxes derived from pseudo-legendaries—Roaring Moon (Salamence), Iron Jugulis (Hydreigon), and Iron Thorns (Tyranitar)—which actually have ''inferior'' base stat totals to their modern counterparts, implying that pseudos are at the peak of their evolutionary history ''right now''.

A group of legendaries designed around a single theme. Often referred to as legendary trios, they have since grown to include [[SixthRanger fourth rangers]] or just been a larger group to start with. Compared to the "mascot" Legendary teams, they are considerably less powerful, though still powerful among most other Pokémon and therefore allowed in Battle facilities and official tournaments.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Legendary Birds[[note]]Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres[[/note]] (''Gen I''); Legendary Beasts[[note]]Raikou, Entei, and Suicune[[/note]] (''Gen II''); Eon Duo[[note]]Latios and Latias[[/note]] and Legendary Titans[[note]]Regirock, Regice, Registeel, later Regieleki, and Regidrago[[/note]] (''Gen III''); Lake Guardians[[note]]Uxie, Mesprit, and Azelf[[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Forces of Nature[[note]]Tornadus, Thundurus, Landorus, and later Enamorus[[/note]] and Swords of Justice[[note]]Cobalion, Terrakion, Virizion, and Keldeo[[/note]] (''Gen V''); Guardian Deities[[note]]Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, Tapu Bulu, and Tapu Fini[[/note]] (''Gen VII''); Galarian Legendary Birds[[note]]Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres[[/note]] (''Gen VIII''); Treasures of Ruin[[note]]Ting-Lu, Chien-Pao, Wo-Chien, and Chi-Yu[[/note]] and Loyal Three[[note]]Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti[[/note]] (''Gen IX'')

-->'''Pokémon similar to this archetype''': The Kanto Starters and the Mew Duo [[note]]as outlined below, elements of the archetype come from combining traits of Charizard, Venusaur & Blastoise and Mewtwo & Mew. [[/note]](''Gen I'')

** Kanto doubled down on starter mascots again in the ''Let's Go'' series with Pikachu and Eevee.

** Dialga is the hard edged master of time, and Palkia the smooth master of space. Giratina represents antimatter and chaos.

** Zacian is the sword, Zamazenta is the shield, Urshifu is the armor, and Calyrex the crown. Together they make a full set of regalia. Eternatus could be said to represent a cannon, or a [[DragonsVersusKnights dragon to be slain.]]

* InterfaceSpoiler: While they’re pitched as a duo of mascots, it’s immediately obvious that most are actually part of a trio when you just look at the Pokédex. It’s no surprise when Blastoise becomes the mascot of a ''Blue Version'' any more than Rayquaza getting an ''Emerald Version.'' It was surprising that Zygarde never got a proper "Z Version", though.[[note]]''Pokémon Legends: Z-A'', rather than a true UpdatedReRelease of ''X and Y'', is part of the subseries launched with ''Legends: Arceus'' and more of a sequel/spin-off of the Kalos games.[[/note]]

* SwordOfPlotAdvancement: The starters of course are the original [[ItMayHelpYouOnYourQuest sword of plot beginnings.]] In later games, you may be forced to battle or catch the mascot legendary to progress. This happens typically during the showdown with the boss of the evil team, or as a rite of passage before facing the Elite Four.
* VersionExclusiveContent: The mascot of the game you're playing takes the starring legendary role in the main story while the other is a post game OptionalBoss, if not totally unavailable. Subverted by the Kanto Starters. You can only pick one, but which one you pick isn't tied to which Version you're playing... until the ''Let's Go'' remakes.

*** The warm/cool ColorContrast on the cover art came from the Kanto starters. Charizard the warm-colored mascot in ''Red'' and ''[=FireRed=]'' in all regions and the cool-colored mascots being Venusaur (''Green'' in Japan, ''[=LeafGreen=]'' in all regions) and Blastoise (''Blue''). Pikachu in ''Yellow'' set the standard for ChromaticArrangement with the "third member". Only Pikachu (only in the anime) was the target of the evil Team. While not Legendaries, in the Gen I games they are one of a kind for their species. In the Gen III remakes and beyond you can get more by breeding.
*** The Mew Duo is the blueprint for plot relevant legendaries with a theme beyond color and typing. They represent nature vs technology as the ancestor of natural born Pokémon and a man-made clone/genetic experiment. Mewtwo is also associated with Giovanni the way some team bosses are associated with a mascot legendary, even if Team Rocket isn't obsessed with catching it. In some continuities, he’s partially responsible for creating it.
** Ho-oh and Lugia still weren't pursued by the evil team, but they share Mewtwo's base stat total and appear as proper mascots. They were a true duo, but still ended up getting an enhanced third version. Suicune was made thrown in as the most popular of the Legendary Beasts.

** Gen IV only had one evil team that was after either mascot, and gave the third member a unique Forme Change in their enhanced game. Otherwise it echoed Gen III closely.

** Gen VIII looked like it would reprise Necrozma with Eternatus. However, instead of a new enhanced version, the original versions were enhanced with DLC. The DLC mascots Urshifu and Calyrex don't have much to do with the original duo. Interestingly, it is the first time since Gen I that there are four distinct mascots in a single generation, and like Gen I they correspond to the [[ChromaticArrangement full four Red, Blue, Green, Yellow color scheme.]]

*** Terapagos follows in Eternatus' footsteps by being the source of the regional gimmick, albeit only being revealed in the DLC after being hinted at in the main story.

A group that largely overlaps with the Version Mascots, They are generally a secret part of the lore between the paired mascots, and in turn become the mascots of the [[UpdatedReRelease enhanced version.]] Since each pair tends to incorporate a theme of duality, the Third Legendary often symbolizes balance between the two. Like the Version Mascots, their role has been largely codified in Gen III and IV.

* AntiVillain: The case for "evil" Third Legendaries: Kyurem has been enslaved by the human BigBad, Necrozma [[BeingTorturedMakesYouEvil was driven mad by being forcibly exploited by humans]] and Eternatus arguably runs on BlueAndOrangeMorality and may just be trying to feed itself.

* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: Suicune is the first case of a Legendary Pokémon being used as the mascot of an UpdatedReRelease, but it belongs to an entirely different group than Lugia and Ho-Oh (but is implied to be subordinate to the latter), isn't the focus of the story of ''Crystal'' (though it is the focus of a sub-plot), and it doesn't have a SuperMode nor Dragon typing.

* OptionalBoss: In the original paired versions up until Generation VII.
* OurDragonsAreDifferent: Excepting Terapagos[[note]]Though, technically speaking, his Stellar Tera type means he can wield ''all'' Pokémon types, Dragon included[[/note]] they all are part-Dragon type (Necrozma only in its Ultra form).

** Has become a ForgottenTrope from Generation VIII onwards. The "original" Third Legendary from that generation, Eternatus, is faced during the base game's story as the ClimaxBoss, and the changes in the main series's release model -- from UpdatedReRelease to DownloadableContent -- means that following plotline relevant legendaries like Terapagos are the stars of their own DLC campaigns.
* SortingAlgorithmOfEvil: They become more and more villainous with each passing generation. Rayquaza is firmly heroic and quells the fight between Groudon and Kyogre, Giratina acts on its own to stop the human BigBad but involuntarily threatens reality, Kyurem is enslaved by the BigBad, Necrozma was originally benevolent but was driven mad by a GameBreakingInjury that forced it to steal light to survive, and Eternatus is a perfectly sane WalkingWasteland which may or may not be aware of the devastation it causes. The exceptions are Zygarde (who is heroic, and never was the focus of a game) and Terapagos (goes berserk at the climax of his plot and needs to be stopped, but it isn't clear how malicious is he being.)

** Gen IX: Terapagos plays the archetype straighter compared to the preceding generation, as he's directly connected to the Area Zero plot of the base game, though he too only appears in ''The Indigo Disk'' DLC and eschews Dragon typing for the newly introduced [[AllYourPowersCombined Stellar type]].

Owing to the UrbanLegendOfZelda and PermanentlyMissableContent nature in games, they tend to get a starring role for a movie in the anime where they are the ultimate MacGuffin. In lore they almost always play more [[CombatAndSupport support as opposed to combat]] oriented legendary co-stars. That's not to say they can't throw down when need be. \\

In the first five generations the straightest examples had a completely even 100 across all six stats, wide movepools, and in 4/5 cases Psychic-typing. Starting around Gen IV they started to incorporate forme changes, and since then the archetype has been increasingly played with. Still every generation has included at least one cute tiny Mythical as an homage to the original Mew.

* CuteCrittersActChildlike: In the anime, they tend to be portrayed as cheerful and playful, just wanting to have fun. Pecharunt is the dark side of this being as petulant as its name implies.

* MasterOfAll: Mew is said to be the ancestor of all Pokémon and has the genetic code to be able to use every teachable move in the game. Other mythical fairies have large movepools but are more limited to their type specialties. Arceus obviously doesn't look like the others, but [[SequelEscalation reprises and outdoes]] Mew's "ancestor of all Pokémon" as the ''TopGod'' [[OlympusMons of Pokémon.]] Like Mew it can learn all teachable moves (except those that explicitly use hands, since it's a quadruped), goes even further in versatility by changing its type, and each of its stats are 20 points higher than Mew's.

** In Gen VII, Incineroar (a {{Heel}} wrestler with high physical stats) is the Fighter, Primarina (a SquishyWizard with high special stats) is the Mage, and Decidueye (an ArcherArchetype with balanced stats and Ghost typing) is the Thief.

* BreakoutCharacter: Being a StarterMon vastly increases a Pokémon's chance of gaining widespread popularity and recognition. In particular, all three Kanto starter lines (especially Charizard), Blaziken, and Greninja have become major icons of the franchise.

** Durant evolved a steel shell to protect from being eaten, but this ironically actually made it more vulnerable to Heatmor's fire.

* BreakoutCharacter: The pseudo-legendaries are routinely among the most popular and iconic Pokémon of their generations, being subjected to heavy marketing, being used as the ace Pokémon for major endgame trainers, and most games will have past pseudo-legendaries natively available. Even less popular pseudo-legendaries like Kommo-o and Goodra still rank very high in popularity polls.

** ZigZagged in Gen VIII. Zacian has mainly blue fur and a more pastel palette, while Zamazenta is mainly red and more saturated, but Zacian wields a sword and has higher Attack and Speed stats while Zamazenta holds a shield and its peak stats are Defense and Special Defense. Note that they are both [[PrimaryColorChampion Primary Color Champions]], especially in their powered-up forms.

* InterfaceSpoiler: While they’re pitched as a duo of mascots, it’s immediately obvious that most are actually part of a trio when you just look at the Pokédex. It’s no surprise when Blastoise becomes the mascot of a ''Blue Version'' any more than Rayquaza getting an ''Emerald Version.'' It was surprising that Zygarde never got a "Z Version", though.

** Gen VI skipped any sort of enhanced version for Zygarde, who ended up becoming just a sidequest in Gen VII.

* FusionDance: Kyurem and Necrozma can do this with either of the respective paired versions' mascots. Calyrex does the same with Glastrier or Spectrier (though, while the gameplay treats this the same way as Kyurem and Necrozma, lore-wise Calyrex merely mounts its steed without actually "fusing" with them). Zygarde is also this in the lore when switching between forms: it gains or loses the autonomous cells and cores which make up its being.

** Gen VI eschews this completely, having no UpdatedReRelease and no role for poor Zygarde.

An archetype that has appeared in every odd-numbered generation thus far, these Pokémon are all based on mushrooms. They are Grass-types found rather early on and usually evolve in the 20's, but what makes this archetype particularly unique is the move Spore, which is exclusive to this archetype and is the only perfect-accuracy move that causes Sleep. The general archetype likely persists entirely to provide access to this move. Until to at least Generation 9 new ones are introduced in odd numbered Gens.

With so many Pokémon in the franchise, it is perhaps inevitable that the game's designers sometimes fall back on familiar patterns [[RecurringElement between generations]]. Pokémon that serve similar roles as far as gameplay, availability, and lore. Looking alike or sharing real world animal basis is only one element. Though subjective, this is for the ones that ''feel'' alike, or that there's more pointing towards intent than coincidence in how the Pokémon Company uses them.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:'''
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--> Caterpie & Weedle lines (''Gen I''); Ledyba & Spinarak lines (''Gen II''); Wurmple branched lines [[note]]to Beautifly & Dustox[[/note]](''Gen III''); Kricketot line (''Gen IV''); Sewaddle & Venipede lines ("Gen V"); Scatterbug line (''Gen VI''); Grubbin line (''Gen VII'') Blipbug line (''Gen VIII''); Tarountula & Nymble lines (''Gen IX'')

-->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Oddish line & Bellsprout line (''Gen I''); Lotad line & Seedot line (''Gen III''); Budew line [[note]]Roselia debuted alone in Gen III, but gained a pre-evolution and stone evolution in Gen IV making it this for ''Diamond & Pearl'', not its native ''Ruby & Sapphire''[[/note]] (''Gen IV''); Cottonee line & Petilil line (''Gen V''); Bounsweet line (''Gen VII'')

* CrutchCharacter: ZigZagged. Their decent starting level of 5 and quick access to their early game STAB move means that, barring a few inconvenient matchups, they can usually solo the early game with no issue. The game is designed for the player to rely on them at the outset [[ComplacentGamingSyndrome if not the entire game if they end up overleveled.]] They can all easily overpower generic trainers and early ComMons. A few of the starters fall off in power later on, but most of them remain powerful for the entire game, if not quite as much as they were early in your adventure. When it comes to gyms, depending on them is a rough answer to DifficultyLevels for how much [[ThresholdGuardians grinding]] or [[ConvenientWeaknessPlacement catching]] and [[SocializationBonus trading]] it takes to win. [[note]]Famously Bulbasaur and Squirtle Brock dealing 4x STAB damage to breeze through Brock on their own and at least having a defensive resistance to Misty, where Charmander is inconvenienced by dealing x0.5 to both and is weak to Misty's Bubblebeam, without getting an advantage on a gym until the fourth.[[/note]] Gen V goes out of its way to challenge this playstyle by giving the first gym the advantage with the Elemental Monkeys regardless of your choice in ''BW'', and then having a neutral Normal Gym up first for ''[=B2W2=]''.

* RecurringBoss: At least one rivals Ace will be a starter, so you'll watch one you didn't pick steadily grow in power as an adversary over the game. Generic [=NPC=]s rarely use Pokémon from any of these lines.

\\

!This page is [[https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/remarks.php?trope=Characters.PokemonRecurringArchetypes&id=145330#145330 under discussion]] to be revised into [[Sandbox/PokemonRecurringArchetypes this Sandbox.]] Please join the discussion before editing the Sandbox.

With so many Pokémon in the franchise, it is perhaps inevitable that different evolutionary lines [[RecurringElement serve similar roles between generations]]. Pokémon that serve these recurring roles often share typing, stats, location, design elements, and role in the story/lore, usually some combination of any of the five.

It's also notable that many archetypes were clearly reprised in Gen III and Gen V, both of which were {{Soft Reboot}}s with limited access to monsters from previous Gens.

The first Pokémon you receive in the game. Usually given to you as a choice of one of three by the local Pokémon professor, they always come in three different types: Grass, Fire, or Water. Your primary rival gets one you don't choose, and the contrast between your starter and the rival's starter teaches a basic ElementalRockPaperScissors relationship between them.[[note]]Earlier games always have the rival choosing the starter stronger to yours, while some later games have the rival choosing the starter weaker to yours; some games have ''two'' rivals who result in both.[[/note]] Since abilities were introduced, starters get one of three abilities that are type variants of each other: Overgrow, Blaze, and Torrent, which boosts the power of their primary type when their HP gets low.\\

-->'''Grass-type Starters:''' Bulbasaur line, Chikorita line, Treecko line, Turtwig line, Snivy line, Chespin line, Rowlet line, Grookey line, Sprigatito line

-->'''Fire-type Starters:''' Charmander line, Cyndaquil line, Torchic line, Chimchar line, Tepig line, Fennekin line, Litten line, Scorbunny line, Fuecoco line

-->'''Water-type Starters:''' Squirtle line, Totodile line, Mudkip line, Piplup line, Oshawott line, Froakie line, Popplio line, Sobble line, Quaxly line

->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:'''

-->'''Starters of different types:''' Pikachu, Eevee
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-->'''Non-starter Grass/Water/Fire Trios''': The Elemental Monkeys[[note]]Pansage line, Pansear line, Panpour line, none of which is the first Pokémon the player will obtain, one of which is gifted to the player depending on which starter they selected, and all of which can be encountered in the wild.[[/note]]

* BossBattle: Chances are, if you see a trainer using one of these Pokémon, they're usually going to be a boss, and their starter is usually their ace Pokémon. Regular trainers rarely, if ever, use Pokémon from any of these lines.

* TheHero: The closest monsters to being main characters. They get a lot of facetime in the marketing and their designs give them pretty strong "canon" personalities. They're also heavily associated with the human lead characters. However they have no actual importance within the games themselves except for in the Lets Go games, with your starter choice having no plot importance nor any gameplay ramifications beyond a slight influence to the rivals' teams, with you being free to bench and even release your starter as you soon as you catch another Pokémon.

* SecretArt:

[[folder:The Common Rodent]]
!!The Common Rodent
A Normal-type, two-stage mon that can be found everywhere in their region, from early-game to late-game. They are generally designed to be unremarkable, having low stats even upon evolution and often serving as team members on the early-game opponent trainers such as Youngsters and Lasses.\\

Note that while the archetype is commonly called a "rodent" and most often are rodents, some Pokémon of this archetype are based on animals not scientifically classified as rodents, such as rabbits, raccoons, badgers, mongooses, and even pigs. Some fans refer to the archetype as "The Common Mammal" for this reason.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Rattata line, Zigzagoon line, Bidoof line, Patrat line, Bunnelby line, Yungoos line, Skwovet line, Lechonk line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Sentret line[[note]]Is Normal-type and has a two-stage evolution, but is exclusively found on early routes[[/note]], Lillipup line[[note]]Is a three-stage line available early on, though the final stage has relatively high stats.[[/note]] Wooloo line[[note]]A two-stage Normal-type line but is only found on early routes[[/note]]

* ComMons: Found everywhere on land routes.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness:
** Johto is notably the only region that doesn't have a Common Rodent of its own, as it shares the Rattata line with nearby Kanto. While the Sentret line has elements of the archetype, it is only found during the daytime and exclusive to early routes.
** On a smaller scale, Zigzagoon is the only archetype member that lacks [[PercentDamageAttack Super Fang]], which is otherwise shared with every other Common Rodent.
* TheGenericGuy: They're about as unremarkable as you can get with Pokémon, having the [[NonElemental Normal type]], perpetually subpar stats, and closely resembling very common everyday animals.

* NonElemental: They are always Normal-type, though some second forms like Bibarel and Diggersby also gain secondary typings.
* PercentDamageAttack: All of them [[EarlyInstallmentWeirdness except the Zigzagoon line]] have access to the move Super Fang, which always halves the target's HP. While they won't win battles this way, it gives them a bit of utility should you keep one of them into the later levels.

* UtilityPartyMember: A number of them tend to learn several Hidden Machine moves, which makes them surprisingly good at map utility. The Bidoof line in particular is capable of learning almost all of Gen IV's [=HMs=].

[[folder:The Common Bird]]
!!The Common Bird
A Flying-type, either three-stage or two-stage, these Pokémon can be found everywhere in their regions alongside their fellow rodents. While they also often appear on the early-game opponents, their evolution, stats, and typing can be useful throughout the game. If nothing else, they can be useful as HM Fly mounts to quickly ferry you between towns.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:'''
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-->'''Three-stage subtype:''' Pidgey line, Starly line, Pidove line, Fletchling line, Pikipek line, Rookidee line
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-->'''Two-stage subtype:''' Spearow line, Wingull line, Wattrel line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Hoothoot line, Taillow line[[note]]Neither of these Pokémon are particularly common in their native generations[[/note]]

* AirborneMook: Being Flying-types, they're this when encountered in the wild or sent out by another trainer.
* BlowYouAway: They are always Flying-types, fitting of birds.
* ComMons: Like the common rodents, they are ubiquitous on land routes.

* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: Most regions are well-known for their "Pidgey clones", but surprisingly, Generations II and III didn't introduce new ones. In Johto, Pidgey reprises its role as the Common Bird as it does in nearby Kanto. Hoenn had no real Pidgey clone at all, with the closest thing, Taillow, not being especially common and only having a two-stage evolution — if anything, it was closer in concept to Spearow. Starly in Generation IV was the first real Common Bird to play all of Pidgey's characteristics straight, and almost every succeeding generation has followed its lead.
* TheGenericGuy: Similarly to the common rodent Pokémon, these Pokémon tend to closely resemble everyday animals and have little in the way of supernatural abilities. Fewer of them have this design philosophy, though, especially in the later generations.

** Paldea's resident "common bird", Wattrel, is not a direct Pidgey clone unlike every other common bird from Generations IV-VIII. Instead, it functions as an Electric-type take on Wingull, establishing the two-stage variant as a subtype of its own.
* MascotMook: In Generations 1-6, Ash always had one in his lineup, boosting the popularity of the archetype above its counterpart rodent. Corviknight is also omnipresent as a taxi service in Gen 8. The only exception is Pikipek's line, who never got a ton of spotlight in its day, despite being the only one that's [[SignatureMon the ace]] of an EliteFour member.

* NonElemental: The three-stage members are usually Normal-type alongside their Flying type, though later evolutions of the archetype may be typed as something else. Only Rookidee doesn't start out as a Normal-type, though it gains the Steel type upon its final evolution.

[[folder:The Common Dark-type]]
!!The Common Dark-type
A later addition to the early ComMons. A Dark-type, two-stage mon as a third wheel to the rodent and bird above. While they aren't that remarkable, they usually serve as common opponents on antagonistic or less savory trainer classes. They usually debut in odd numbered generations.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Poochyena line, Purrloin line, Alolan Rattata line, Nickit line, Maschiff line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Galarian Zigzagoon line[[note]]Similar to Alolan Rattata as a regional variant of a Common Rodent playing the role of the Common Dark-type, but has a third form[[/note]], Stunky line[[note]]Is version-exclusive to ''Diamond'' and is only found on a few routes[[/note]]

* BewareOfViciousDog: The Poochyena, Nickit, and Maschiff lines are all canid in design, and they all have the Dark-type to denote their vicious nature.
* ComMons: Found everywhere on land routes. Poochyena plays with this, though; in ''Ruby and Sapphire'' it served a Sentret-like role in being a less common, early game exclusive counterpart to the "rodent", Zigzagoon, but in ''Emerald'', it essentially swapped roles with Zigzagoon, being the common one while Zigzagoon was made less so (though still available even in mid-late game routes).
* CombatPragmatist: Their Dark-typing makes them edgier than their more docile Normal-type counterparts.
* DarkIsEvil: Tend to be the preferred mons for the local evil teams and "ruffian" trainers like Punks, Street Thugs, and Delinquents.
* EvilCounterpart: The Common Dark-type can be considered this to the Common Rodent, as while both are commonplace two-stage Pokémon, the Rodent is more docile and found on common opponents such as Youngsters and Lasses, the Dark-type is fiercer and found on evil team grunts.
* TheGoomba: They're largely on-par with the Common Rodents in terms of battling capacity and just as common to see on evil team grunts.
* ManBitesMan: Tend to learn biting moves like Bite or Crunch either naturally or by machine.
* PredatorsAreMean: They're generally based on carnivorous predators and essentially act as the evil counterparts to the more herbivorous/omnivorous Common Rodents.

[[folder:The Early Bug]]
!!The Early Bug
A Bug-type, either three-stage or two-stage, found exclusively in early routes (at least in their debut games), also associated with "early forests" such as Viridian Forest and Santalune Forest.\\

They mainly exist to teach the mechanic of evolution early in the game, as they often evolve earlier than practically all other Pokémon, often evolving into their second or even third stage level 10. Earlier members of the archetype can be useful in the early game thanks to their early high stats and status effects, but they are generally outclassed anywhere later than the early game. Some that reach their final form at higher levels can be more powerful, especially those from later generations.\\
\\
Three-stage versions usually resemble the larva, pupa, and adult stages of complete {{Metamorphosis}} of many RealLife insects, while two-stage versions are like incomplete metamorphosis with a regular younger form and bigger form-type evolution. In the first five Generations, they tended to come in two flavors: the original more docile version, usually part Flying-Type that focuses on status effects to debilitate or change the field of play, and the sharper intimidating version, almost always Poison-type, that has better direct offense abilities. From Gen VI on, you only see one or the other per game.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:'''
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--> '''Docile subtype:''' Caterpie line, Ledyba line, Wurmple line (ending in Beautifly), Kricketot line, Sewaddle line, Scatterbug line, Tarountula line
--> '''Intimidating subtype:''' Weedle line, Spinarak line, Wurmple line (ending in Dustox), Venipede line, Grubbin line, Blipbug line, Nymble line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Burmy line[[note]]Has a larval stage and similar stats and learnsets to other butterfly-like members of the archetype, but has a two-stage branching evolution based on gender with no pupal stage for the males and a lifelong pupal stage for the females[[/note]]

* BigCreepyCrawlies: They're always Bug-types. In their final stage, they're normally only medium-sized by Pokémon standards, but some like Scolipede can reach large sizes.
* BlowYouAway: Pokémon of the "docile" subtype tend to end up Flying-type on their final evolution. Even the winged members of the intimidating subtype can usually learn some Flying-type moves.
* CrutchCharacter: The earlier members of the archetype plus the Scatterbug line are able to evolve into their final form earlier than other mons — some as early as level 10 — at the expense of having weaker base stats in their final form. This can help players overcome early challenges such as the EarlyBirdBoss more easily, but are eventually overshadowed by other Pokémon once ''they'' reach their final forms. However, this overlaps somewhat with MagikarpPower in Generation V and beyond, where most of them learn [[StatusBuff Quiver Dance]] [[LastDiscMagic at the very end of their level-up movepool]] and are among the few Pokémon to do so. Even with their mediocre stats, they are more than capable of contributing in the lategame and can potentially even sweep entire teams of statistically stronger Pokémon as long as they can find opportunities to set up ([[ArtificialStupidity which the AI will give them many of]]).
* LaterInstallmentWeirdness: Starting with Generation V, members of this archetype have started to avert the early-evolving CrutchCharacter aspects pioneered by Caterpie and Weedle by evolving at higher levels with appropriate stats while still retaining the three-stage evolution reflecting real-life complete {{Metamorphosis}}. The Scatterbug line is one exception, being a deliberate throwback to Caterpie, while the Grubbin line throws the idea of reaching the final form early ''completely'' out the window and into a raging bonfire, as evolving Charjabug into Vikavolt requires either leveling up in a late-game area (in ''Sun'', ''Moon'', ''Ultra Sun'', & ''Ultra Moon'') or using a Thunder Stone (in ''Sword'' & ''Shield''). On the other hand, the Blipbug line is a sort of compromise between the original intentions with the Early Bug and later designs, reaching its second form at level 10 while reaching its final form at level 30, again with appropriate stats.
* {{Metamorphosis}}: While most Pokémon go through this as part of their EvolutionPowerup, the Early Bug often uses real-life complete metamorphosis (from larva, to pupa, to imago) to illustrate the evolution mechanic early on for newer players. This applies even to ones that are based on arthropods that in real life don't go through a pupal stage, in which case they enter a stage that resembles a pupa in some way (namely with the body becoming more compact and less mobile in some way).
* PoisonousPerson: Pokémon of the "intimidating" subtype tend to be Poison type.
* PsychicPowers: Following Butterfree, they usually learn low-level Psychic-type moves like Confusion and Psybeam. The Blipbug line takes it further by becoming a Psychic-type upon evolution.
* StatusEffects: They have a tendency to learn the "powder" moves usually used by Grass-types, such as Stun Spore, Sleep Powder, and Poison Powder.
* SuperMode: Beedrill has a Mega Evolution while Butterfree and Orbeetle have Gigantamax forms.
* UnpleasantAnimalCounterpart: Early on, these Pokémon tended to come in pairs, with one being friendlier-looking and the other being more intimidating.

[[folder:The Early Plant]]
!!The Early Plant
A Grass-type Pokémon based on a plant that appear in early sections of the games. They usually have a three-stage evolutionary line, with the final stage requiring something special (such as an evolution stone being used on the Pokémon) in order to be achieved.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Oddish line, Bellsprout line, Hoppip line, Lotad line, Seedot line, Budew line, Bounsweet line
->'''Pokémon that have elements of this archetype:''' Sunkern line, Cottonee line, Petilil line, Gossifleur line, Capsakid line[[note]]Each of these has only two stages.[[/note]], Flabébé line[[note]]Lacks the Grass type[[/note]], Smoliv line. [[note]]Lacks a special evolution method.[[/note]]

* GreenThumb: They're always Grass-types.
* LaterInstallmentWeirdness:
** Steenee requires leveling up while knowing Stomp in order to evolve into Tsareena.
** Dolliv to Arboliva is a no-frills level up evolution in contrast to almost every other second-to-third form evolution in the archetype which requires a special method.
* MagikarpPower: Their first forms tend to be quite weak, with low stats and [[PoorPredictableRock shallow movepools]]. They tend to get a big power boost in their final forms, though.
* {{Planimal}}: Being Grass-types, this comes with the territory.
* PowerOfTheSun: Nearly all of them have at least one ability that works under Sunny Day conditions, and several need a Sun Stone to reach their final evolution.
* StatusEffects: A lot of them make use of the "powder" moves, such as [[ForcedSleep Sleep Powder]] and Poison Powder.

[[folder:The Mushroom]]
!!The Mushroom
An archetype that has appeared in every odd-numbered generation thus far, these Pokémon are all based on mushrooms. They are Grass-types found rather early on and usually evolve in the 20's, but what makes this archetype particularly unique is the move Spore, which is exclusive to this archetype and is the only perfect-accuracy move that causes Sleep.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Paras line, Shroomish line, Foongus line, Morelull line, Toedscool line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Brute Bonnet[[note]]Is a mushroom that learns Spore and is introduced in an odd-numbered generation, but is a late-game single-stage Pokémon, albeit one whose design is derived from Amoonguss.[[/note]]

* ForcedSleep: While far from the only Pokémon move to cause this, the Spore move unique to this archetype takes this further by being the only 100% accuracy move that immediately causes sleep when it hits.[[note]]The only other 100% accuracy sleep-causing move is Yawn, but it requires that the target remain in battle for one more turn before sleep activates.[[/note]]
* FungiArePlants: They are mushroom-based Pokémon and classified as Grass-type alongside other plant-based Pokémon.
* GreenThumb: They are always Grass-type.
* MushroomMan: They share a common basis in mushrooms.
* PinataEnemy: They may hold the Tiny Mushroom or Big Mushroom items that can be sold for money or exchanged for services.
* SecretArt: Spore, which is fittingly called Mushroom Spore in Japanese, is exclusive to this archetype.
* StatusEffects: In addition to their sleep-inducing Spore move, they also share the Effect Spore ability (except for Toedscool, who has an exclusive ability), allowing contacting moves a 30% chance of triggering poison, paralysis, or sleep on the opponent. Notably, Effect Spore is only found on this archetype as a normal ability, with other Pokémon only receiving it as a hidden ability.
* StoneWall: Most of them have the capability to take damage, but are lacking in speed to prevent them from being fast users of Spore. The only exceptions are Breloom, which is more of a GlassCannon, and Toedscruel, which has a good 100 speed, but its ability gives it [[ActionInitiative negative priority]] on [[NonDamagingStatusInflictionAttack status moves]] as an ObviousRulePatch.
[[/folder]]

!The General Game Animal Archetypes
Once you get past the first gym or two, the adventure opens up. As you explore more dungeons, caves, lakes, and buildings, the Pokémon diversify even more. Most of them are still based on real-life animals, though, and certain kinds of animals tend to get used over and over, so they tend to fill similar roles through the various games.

[[folder:The Pikaclone]]
!!The Pikaclone
Thanks to Pikachu's role as a SeriesMascot, the idea behind it expanded to a whole spiritual line of Pokémon sharing many of its elements: the Electric-type, a rodent-based design, and noticeable {{Blush Sticker}}s on their cheeks. While Pikachu has an evolutionary line, Pikaclones almost never evolve.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Pikachu line, Plusle and Minun, Pachirisu, Emolga, Dedenne, Togedemaru, Morpeko, Pawmi line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Marill line[[note]]Shares some visual and thematic similarities to its predecessor, even being referred to as "Pikablu" before its official name was release. However, it deviates from the standard color and typing of the standard Pikaclone, has a complete evolutionary line, and plays out like a MightyGlacier when every other example is some degree of FragileSpeedster.[[/note]], Minccino line[[note]]Though initially conceived as a Clefairy clone, in execution Minccino has many traits of the Pikaclones, including being a FragileSpeedster, being based on some sort of rodent (a chinchilla in this case) and serving as one of the mascots for the generation it was introduced. Like Marill though, it differs in typing and color, and while most Pikaclones focus on hitting hard with one element (typically electricity) this line focuses more on DeathOfAThousandCuts and [[ConfusionFu has access to many different elements to suit this style on top of its normal typing]].[[/note]], Mimikyu[[note]]Appears in the same generation as Togedemaru and plays out more like a DeconstructedCharacterArchetype than a true example.[[/note]]
----

* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: The archetype is a series staple, but Generation II didn't exactly follow it to the letter. The closest things it had to Pikaclones were Pichu, a pre-evolution for Pikachu, and the Marill line, which had some similarities to Pikachu such as a rodent design, zig-zagging tail, two-stage evolution, and placement in the Fairy egg group, but otherwise the similarities ended there. The archetype wasn't well and truly established until Generation III, where Plusle and Minun established the obligatory non-evolving electric rodent for each generation from then on.

Water-type Pokémon that share a common quirk: they start out very weak, but can achieve high stats. The way they do this is dependent on the species: Magikarp itself must reach Level 20, but the others require a special gimmick to evolve and/or achieve their special powerful forms.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Magikarp line, Feebas line, Wishiwashi, Finizen line
-> '''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Basculin line[[note]]A relatively weak Water-type with a powerful evolution, but it was only a single unimpressive stage when it was introduced. It’s also stronger than the other members of this archetype in its first form.[[/note]], Wimpod line[[note]]A Bug/Water MagikarpPower Pokémon line that's more land based due to its primary Bug-typing. Wimpod is quite pathetic in its first form, but it becomes a powerhouse after evolving into Golisopod.[[/note]]

* MakingASplash: Most members of the archetype are pure Water-type; the one exception, Gyarados, is Water/Flying.

!The Miscellaneous Archetypes
While animal-inspired monsters are most common, Pokémon can be based on anything, from humanoid beings to inanimate objects to more abstract concepts, as you'll discover when you encounter them on your adventure. Here, the archetypes are a bit looser, but there are still some identifiable trends.

[[folder:The Three-Stage Rock-type]]
!!The Three-Stage Rock-type

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Geodude line, Aron line, Roggenrola line, Rolycoly line, Nacli line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Rhyhorn line[[note]]The final stage wasn't introduced until well after its previous two stages, and wasn't as significant an upgrade from them as that of true Pokémon of this archetype.[[/note]]

* RockMonster: With the exception of the reptilian Aron line, they are creatures entirely composed of rock pieces. While the Geodude and Roggenrola lines are made of ordinary rocks, the Rolycoly and Nacli lines are instead made of the human-used coal and salt respectively.

[[folder:The Humanoid Fighting-type]]
!!The Humanoid Fighting-type
Two or three-stage Fighting-type Pokémon that come off the most human-looking. They tend to be viewed as the high physical Attack counterpart to the more Special Attack oriented Humanoid Psychic-type. Furthering this comparison is that the Humanoid Fighting-type tend to look masculine while the Humanoid Psychic-type tend to look feminine.

-> '''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Machop line, Tyrogue lines, Makuhita line, Gallade, Timburr line, Throh and Sawk

* BareFistedMonk: They all have the Fighting-type, and can learn a variety of fighting moves.
* CloseRangeCombatant: Given that they're Fighting-Types, they tend to rely on up close physical attacks.
* ElementalPunch: Usually to give them a bit of type-variety than just Fighting attacks, most of these Pokémon can learn the Elemental Punches (Fire Punch, Ice Punch, and Thunder Punch).
* HuMons: This archetype is defined by its members closely resembling (often masculine) humans.
* MagicallyIneptFighter: They tend to have high Attack while their Special Attack is quite low.
* WeakToMagic: Given their Fighting-typing, they're all weak to Psychic and Fairy attacks.

[[folder:The Humanoid Psychic-type]]
!!The Humanoid Psychic-type
A multi-stage Psychic-type line most notable for being among the most human-looking Pokémon, usually looking rather feminine. Being Psychic-types they naturally have great special-oriented stats offset by poor physical stats with HP and Speed being hit-or-miss. They often take time to train up but when fully evolved make very good partners well into the late game.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Abra line, Ralts line, Gothita line, Hatenna line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Mr. Mime line, Jynx line [[note]]Retroactively after gaining evolutions in later Gens.[[/note]] Solosis line[[note]]Only vaguely resembles a humanoid, bearing greater resemblance to a fetus or [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homunculus Homunculus]]. [[/note]]

* ConfusionFu: Most have access to moves from a wide array of types that can play off their amazing Special Attack.
* CuteMonsterGirl: Due to their highly feminine appearances, the Smooochum, Ralts, Gothita, and Hatenna lines are very cute in each stages. Adding to this, the Gothita line has a 3 females to 1 male ratio, while Smoochum and Hatenna are entirely female.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: Pokémon of this archetype are well-known for having very feminine appearances, but the originator of the archetype, the Abra line, is very masculine in appearance and even has a 3 males to 1 female gender ratio. The Ralts line eventually codified the feminine looks for the archetype, and later archetype members have added on to this by being either mostly or entirely female.
* EvilCounterpart: The Gothita line's {{Yandere}} vibes and Hatenna line's AxCrazy attitude make them both serve as one for the protective and compassionate Ralts line.
* HuMons: This archetype is defined by its members closely resembling (often feminine) humans.
* MagikarpPower: They start out very underwhelming and take a while to reach their final forms, but once they do they get a massive increase in power. As an example, Ralts has lower stats than the TropeNamer and Kirlia is the weakest of all non-cocoon evolved Pokémon, yet both Gardevoir and Gallade are strong Pokémon both capable of Mega Evolution.
* PsychicPowers: Very potent powers at that.
* SuperMode: Alakazam, Gardevoir, and Gallade are all capable of Mega Evolution, while Hatterene has a Gigantamax form.
* SixthRanger: The Solosis line fits the mold of a three-stage Psychic-type, but are instead based on ''embryos'', of all things.
* TropeCodifier: The Ralts line established the feminine characteristics of this archetype.

[[folder:The Three-Stage Ghost-Type]]
!!The Three-Stage Ghost-Type
A Ghost-Type with a family of three evolutions, with the third form requiring a special method. They usually have a high Special Attack Stat. Because Ghost-Types are generally uncommon, the may be the most common Ghost available.
->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Gastly line, Duskull line, Litwick line, Honedge line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Shuppet line [[note]]Its third form is a [[SuperMode Mega Evolution]] rather than an actual evolution[[/note]]

* AnimateInanimateObject: Litwick is a candle that turns into a lamp and later a chandelier, while the whole Honedge line is based on swords. Gastly is a downplayed example as a living cloud of toxic gas, but it still has significant ghostly features while its evolutions are an outright BedsheetGhost and LivingShadow.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness:
** Gengar and Dusknoir require a [[SocializationBonus trade]] to evolve, while the other two only need a Dusk Stone.
** The Duskull line is notable for becoming a member of this archetype by gaining a third form between generations. Litwick and Honedge instead have their own third forms introduced alongside their first and second from the get-go like Gastly.
* NoSell: Their Ghost-type gives them immunities to both Normal and Fighting.
* SoulPower: They're always Ghost-types.
* YourSoulIsMine: Several of their Pokédex entries make mention of them stealing humans' souls or life force. Haunter tries to lick people with its tongue and steal their lives away, the Litwick line's flames are fueled by souls, and Honedge will drain the life of anyone that tries to wield it like a real sword.

[[folder:The Pokéball Decoy]]
!!The Pokéball Decoy
Items in the Pokémon series are generally represented by Pokéballs that litter the landscape. However, due to this, several Pokémon have been introduced that take advantage of this fact, and bear a similar design in order to trick players into running into them. Generally they are fairly balanced in their stats, albeit excelling in a few areas and falling flat in others.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Voltorb line (standard form only), Foongus line, Galarian Stunfisk
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Hisuian Voltorb line[[note]]Although it does resemble the Pokéballs of the time period, Hisuian Voltorb and Electrode aren't discoverable in the overworld like the others in this category[[/note]], Orthworm[[note]]Also not discoverable as a mimic, while some hide in the ground, vaguely looking like Pokéballs, they aren't easily interactable in this state. Some just roam around.[[/note]], Greavard line [[note]]Mimics overworld items in its first form when it's buried underground, but doesn't look like a Poké Ball[[/note]], Brute Bonnet[[note]]Also not discoverable as a mimic like Hisuian Voltorb and Electrode, albeit due to being Amoonguss' ancestor.[[/note]], Gimmighoul line[[note]]While these are discoverable as a mimic, they don't function as a ChestMonster, as they don't resemble item pickups.[[/note]]

* AnimateInanimateObject: They're all based on Pokéballs.
* ChestMonster: Essentially what their gimmick is; tricking you into thinking it’s an item before revealing it's a Pokémon.

[[folder:The Two-Stage Pollutant]]
!!The Two-Stage Pollutant
Two-stage Poison-type Pokémon in the mold of Koffing and Grimer. They tend to appear in odd-numbered generations and embody something thematically related to poison, such as pollution or acid. They don't always get along; Muk and Garbodor, in particular, are natural enemies.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Grimer line, Koffing line, Gulpin line, Trubbish line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Varoom line[[note]]Although it's a Poison-type Pokémon with two stages and represents a form of pollution, it's also part Steel-type and is less amorphous than the other members.[[/note]]

* BlobMonster: They're mostly somewhat shapeless, and the Grimer and Gulpin lines in particular are living blobs of sludge.
* GreenIsGross: Alolan Grimer, Alolan Muk, Gulpin, Trubbish, and Garbodor are green, while Galarian Weezing produces clouds of pale green gas.
* LandSeaSky: The Grimer, Koffing and Trubbish lines are based on liquid, gaseous, and solid waste respectively, forming a take on this trope focused on pollution.
* LaterInstallmentWeirdness: The Varoom line otherwise plays the archetype straight as being based on a pollutant (engine exhaust) and evolving at Level 40 (comparable to Muk's 38 and Garbodor's 36), but mixes it up by being a Steel-type in addition to its Poison type and having a more definite shape as a living combustion engine.
* MuckMonster: Grimer, Koffing, and Trubbish are all formed from living pollution. Varoom is a downplayed example, allegedly being an engine cylinder given life by a strange toxin.
* PoisonousPerson: They're mostly pure Poison-types, except for Alolan Grimer and Muk which gain secondary Dark typing, Galarian Weezing who gains a secondary Fairy typing, and the Varoom line which is entirely Steel/Poison.
* TechnicolorToxin: Most of them are primarily purple or green. The Varoom line is mostly metallic, but its exhaust pipes are tipped with purple sludge.

[[folder:The Two-Stage Tree]]
!!The Two-Stage Tree
Two-stage Pokémon that are based on tall trees that can move about. Other than the Bonsly line, they tend to have the Grass-typing. Other than the Snover line, their evolution usually requires a special method.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Exeggcute lines, Snover line, Phantump line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Bonsly line[[note]]Lacks a Grass-typing, and both evolutionary stages were introduced in different generations.[[/note]], Smoliv line[[note]]Has three stages.[[/note]]

* GreenThumb: Given that they're based on trees, they have the Grass-typing. The one exception being the Bonsly line.
* MightyGlacier: They tend to be very slow, but have high stats in other areas to make up for it.
* {{Treants}}: Sudowoodo and Trevenant both have a humanoid shape. Humorously, one can be found in a horde of the other in the Kalos games.
* WhenTreesAttack: They're all trees that can walk around and fight.

[[folder:The Multiplying Metal Object]]
!!The Multiplying Metal Object
A Pokémon that evolves by apparently merging with other members of its kind, rather than simply metamorphosing on its own. They tend to be three stage evolutions, part Steel-type, and quite powerful by their final form.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Magnemite line, Beldum line, Klink line, Honedge line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Alolan Diglett line[[note]]Only has two evolutionary forms, are also based on organic creatures.[[/note]], Meltan line[[note]]Only two evolutionary forms, and the second form, unlike the others of this archetype, are a full on fusion between the Meltan[[/note]], Gimmighoul line[[note]]Only has two evolutionary forms, the first form isn't a Steel-Type.[[/note]]

* AnimateInanimateObject: Metal objects like magnets, gears, and swords have all been used here.
* BossBattle: Many of them are the SignatureMon of a master level trainer. Metagross with Champion Steven, Klinklang with Plasma Boss Colress (who also has Magnezone and Metagross in his party), Aegislash and Alolan Dugtrio with Elite Four members Wikstrom and Molayne, respectively.
* {{Cyclops}}: A good deal of them have at least one form where they only have one eye.
* ExtraOreDinary: All members of this archetype are Steel-types. Diglett is pure Ground but got a Steel regional form, though it’s still only a two stage evolution.
* GameplayAndStorySegregation: Their Pokédex entries state that they evolve by fusing with other members of their kind, but in-game, a singular one of these Pokémon can evolve all by itself.

[[folder:The Possessed Object]]
!!The Possessed Object
Ghost-type Pokémon that take the form of an AnimateInanimateObject. These are somewhat inspired by a type of {{Youkai}} called a Tsukumogami, an everyday object that has gained a spirit of its own.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Shedinja, Shuppet line, Drifloon line, Yamask line, Litwick line, Golett line, Honedge line, Sandygast line, Sinistea line, Gimmighoul line, Poltchageist line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Rotom[[note]]Loses its Ghost-typing once it possesses an object[[/note]], Dhelmise[[note]]Ghost-type that looks like an AnimateInanimateObject but is really seaweed that clings to an anchor and ship's wheel[[/note]]

* AnimateInanimateObject: They are based on nonliving things, such as dolls, balloons, clay statues, and death masks.
* DishingOutDirt: The Golett, Sandygast, and Galarian Yamask lines are all part Ground-type.
* OurGhostsAreDifferent. They're all Ghost-types. Rather than having a vaporous or see-through form like many ghosts, their spirits inhabit physical objects.

[[folder:The Edible Fairy]]
!!The Edible Fairy
An archetype introduced in the later games alongside the creation of their type. These are always two-stage Fairy-type Pokémon made to look like some kind of food, and oddly sometimes canines.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Swirlix line, Milcery line, Fidough line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Snubbull line [[note]] predates the food shape and Fairy-type, but is the first pink dog and was retroactively made pure Fairy[[/note]]

* AnthropomorphicFood: All of them are creatures that look like food:
** Swirlix resembles a poodle based on cotton candy, and Slurpuff is based on meringue with some puppy-like traits.
** Milcery and Alcremie look like they're made of cream, with Gigantamax Alcremie resembling a large, fancy cake.
** Fidough and Dachsbun are dogs that look like they're made of bread.
* LightIsGood: They generally embody the brightly colored, benevolent form of most Fairy-types.
* NoSell: Being Fairy-types, they are immune to Dragon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: They're all pure Fairy-types based on food.
* PreciousPuppy: Both the Swirlix and Fidough lines are based on dogs (though it's more obvious in the latter) and are very cute. This might be a callback to Snubbull.
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: Like most Fairy-types, they're all designed to be small, adorable creatures, even after they evolve.

[[folder:The Blade-Armed Humanoid]]
!!The Blade-Armed Humanoid
A human-looking Pokémon with arms that either are bladed, resemble blades or flat-out ''are'' blades. Their highest base stat is their physical attack while their weakest is usually their special attack. Most of these Pokémon tend to have a masculine appearance.

-> '''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Gallade, Pawniard line, Ceruledge, Iron Valiant
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Scyther line (Kleavor)[[note]]Have blade-arms but don't resemble humans.[[/note]], Kabutops[[note]]Has blade-arms but doesn't resemble a human.[[/note]]

* BareFistedMonk: Gallade and Iron Valiant are Fighting-types, and can learn a variety of fighting moves.
* BladeBelowTheShoulder: This archetype is partially defined by its members having arms that either are bladed, resemble blades or flat-out ''are'' blades.
* CloseRangeCombatant: The highest base stat of these Pokémon is always their physical attack.
* HuMons: This archetype is partially defined by its members closely resembling humans.
* MagicallyIneptFighter: They always have high Attack while their Special Attack is usually quite low, with Iron Valiant being the only exception to the latter thus far.
* WeakToMagic: Gallade is weak against Fairy-types, Ceruledge is weak against Ghost-types, and Iron Valiant is weak against both Fairy-types and Psychic-types. While the Pawniard line are immune to Psychic and resistant to Ghost while being neutral to Fairy, they have high Defense but lower Special Defense.

[[folder:The Extraterrestrial]]
!!The Extraterrestrial
Pokémon that are said to have come from outer space. They tend to have the Psychic-type.

-> '''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Cleffa line, Staryu line, Lunatone and Solrock, Elgyem line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Minior[[note]]Lore establishes that it came to the planet from forming within its ozone layer rather than outer space.[[/note]], Blipbug line[[note]]There's nothing in the lore that confirms the Blipbug line as a group of aliens, but they have a lot of characteristics associated with outer space. The most obvious example is with Orbeetle's Gigantamax form, which is straight up based on a UFO.[[/note]]

* DishingOutDirt: Given how comets tend to be associated with space, some of the alien Pokémon are based around this idea of living rocks crashing down to the planet, such as Lunatone, Solrock, and Minior. Thus, they have the Rock-typing, and can learn a variety of Rock moves. The Cleffa line also uses Moon Stones to evolve into its final form.
* PowerFloats: Probably because of using their Psychic powers on themselves, some of these Pokémon, such as Lunatone, Solrock, and the Elgyem line, float around in the air.
* PsychicPowers: A majority of the alien-like Pokémon have the Psychic-typing, and can learn a variety of Psychic moves. Even the Fairy-type Cleffa line tends to be associated with using Psychic moves.

[[folder:The Noisemaker]]
!!The Noisemaker
Pokémon that are based on something related to sound, such as music or audio equipment, and rely heavily on sound-based moves. They tend to have the Normal-type.
-> '''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Igglybuff line, Whismur line, Chatot, Audino, Meloetta
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Chingling line, Kricketot line, Tympole line, Noibat line, Scream Tail[[note]]They all lack a Normal-typing.[[/note]]

* AstonishinglyAppropriateAppearance: Their appearance often reflects their association with sound or music. Whismur's ears resemble the bells of an alarm clock, while Chatot has an eighth note for a head and a metronome for a tail.
* CartoonCreature: Some of them, such as Jigglypuff, Exploud, and Audino, don't look like any real-life animal.
* MagicMusic: Some of them can learn Sing, including the Igglybuff line, the originator of this archetype.
* MakeSomeNoise: This archetype is based around the power of sound and uses a lot of sound-based moves.
* NonElemental: They tend to have the Normal-type, just like most of the sound-based moves that they have access to.
* SuperScream: Most of them can learn some screaming-related moves, such as Uproar, Echoed Voice, Noble Roar, Disarming Voice, Snarl, Sparkling Aria, and Hyper Voice.

[[folder:The Unrelated Related Duo]]
!!The Unrelated Related Duo
While many Pokémon mirror each other (foils, rivals, version exclusive counterparts etc.) these go one step further. These pairs are so closely related that they may even be categorized together. The games consistently make a point to pair them in their appearances. Notably, Gen III introduced a lot of these alongside double battles.

!!!The Thematic Duo
They look alike, have similar names, and may even have similar stats and types. Despite having all the hallmarks of being an evolutionary family they are not directly linked in gameplay.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Hitmonlee and Hitmonchan[[note]]before receiving a shared preevolution in Gen II[[/note]], Plusle and Minun, Lunatone and Solrock, Throh and Sawk, Oranguru and Passimian, Tatsugiri and Dondozo
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Scyther and Scizor[[note]]Introduced in different generations, and share the same evolutionary line.[[/note]], Pinsir and Heracross[[note]]JapaneseBeetleBrothers that have been introduced in different generations, and only loosely juxtapose one another in gameplay style.[[/note]], Armarouge and Ceruledge[[note]]They share a preevolution in Charcadet, but fit the archetype otherwise.[[/note]]

* BirdsOfAFeather: Often partners, or friendly rivals.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness:
** Hitmonlee and Hitmonchan were unrelated in Gen I. In Gen II they got a baby form and a third member. No other pairs have ever been retroactively linked like this.
** Pinsir and Scyther were just version exclusive counterparts in Gen I. Both received evolutions in Gen II's betas. But somewhere in development it was decided to separate Pinsir and Heracross into a cross-gen thematic duo, while Scyther still evolved into Scizor. Down the road this also had the weird effect of giving us Mega Pinsir, Heracross, and Scizor, but because only fully evolved Pokémon are capable of mega evolution, there is no Mega Scyther.
** Scyther and Scizor. Unlike the other examples, the thematic duo here is formed from a Pokémon and its immediate evolution. Notably, Scyther is the only Pokémon that doesn't change base stat total upon evolving. Scyther and Scizor are equally powerful, just differently balanced (like all other thematic duo pairs).
* {{Foil}}:
** The original Hitmons split fighting techniques between kicking and punching.
** Scyther cuts while Scizor crushes.
** Pinsir and Heracross are JapaneseBeetleBrothers.
** The Pikaclones are positive and negative electrical charges.
** Lunatone and Solrock represent the [[SolarAndLunar moon and sun]], respectively.
** Throh and Sawk split fighting techniques between grappling and striking, or judo and karate.
** Oranguru and Passimian represent the mind and body. They may also stand in for coaches versus players.
** Tatsugiri and Dondozo fit the BrainsAndBrawn archetype, and are based on a piece of sushi and a sushi chef.

!!!The Gendered Duo
Two complementary single-gender species. These Pokémon take sexual dimorphism to the point of literally being different creatures. Despite being separate evolutionary lines, some produce eggs that hatch into either. While legendaries are typically of the undiscovered gender group in gameplay, in lore they sometimes get this treatment too.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Nidoran male and female lines, Volbeat and Illumise, Latios and Latias, Rufflet and Vullaby lines, Hatenna and Impidimp lines
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Tauros and Miltank[[note]]Introduced in different generations, and have sharply contrasting character designs, with Miltank being more anthropomorphic and cartoony than Tauros.[[/note]], Mew and Mewtwo[[note]]In the Gen I games Mew is said to be Mewtwo's mother, though the latter is not gendered. In the anime and other contemporary spinoffs Mewtwo was gendered male[[/note]], Darkrai and Cresselia[[note]]While Cresselia is all female, Darkrai is undiscovered gender[[/note]], Meowstic[[note]]While the male and female are of the same species and have the same stats, they have very distinct designs and wildly diverging movepools[[/note]], Solgaleo and Lunala[[note]]Genderless in game, but described as gendered evolutions of the Cosmog line, Solgaleo male and Lunala female[[/note]], Indeedee[[note]]Similar to Meowstic in that the male and female are the same species with varying designs and movepools but Indeedee's stats also differ between the two[[/note]], Zacian and Zamazenta[[note]]Genderless in game, but described as siblings, Zacian the sister and Zamazenta the brother[[/note]], Lechonk line[[note]]Despite the second stages having different abilities, they are the same species. Lechonk itself is also not distinguished between genders.[[/note]]
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* BizarreSexualDimorphism: Male and female counterparts that aren't even considered to be the same Pokémon.
* OlympusMons: Several times over for RuleOfSymbolism. But odd considering legendaries can't breed (in daycare conditions at least). As with other legendary archetypes below, this may be first derived by the more feminine Mew and masculine Mewtwo pair in Gen I.
* OneGenderRace: Technically these are pairs of one gender races.
* PaleFemalesDarkMales: The male counterparts tend to have darker or more saturated colors.
* PinkGirlBlueBoy: Played straight with Latias. Inverted on three occasions. Nidoran female is blue, while the male is a pinkish purple. Volbeat is a red male to Illumise's blue female. Zacian is Cyan and Zamazenta is a dark Magenta color
* PinkMeansFeminine: Miltank, Cresselia and the Hatenna line as a whole are all pinker than their male counterparts.

!!!The Natural Enemy Duo
Pokémon that are direct rivals to each other, possibly as a predator/prey relationship.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Zangoose and Seviper, Durant and Heatmor, Yungoos and Alolan Rattata lines
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' The Pawniard line and Tinkatuff[[note]]Tinkatuff was introduced four generations after the Pawniard line and while Tinkatuff's ''Scarlet'' Pokédex entry does mention that it hunts Pawniard and Bisharp for their metal, there is no mention of whether or not Tinkatuff also hunts Kingambit.[[/note]], the Mareanie line and Johtonian Corsola[[note]]Mareanie was introduced five generations after Corsola; this does not apply to the Galarian Corsola line, as Mareanie do not eat them[[/note]], the Mareanie line and Pincurchin[[note]]Pincurchin was introduced one generation after Mareanie, and this dynamic between them was not introduced until a generation after that[[/note]], Corviknight and Tinkaton[[note]]Tinkaton was introduced one generation after Corviknight.[[/note]]
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* CarnivoreConfusion: The Pokémon series stresses the personhood of each monster making a point that battles are purely for sport, and being coy about whether even humans eat them. These pairs are straight up about them attacking and eating each other in a more animalistic way.
* GameplayAndStoryIntegration: In ''X and Y'', their rivalry takes effect when they're encountered in the wild. If encountered in a Horde Battle, wild Zangoose and Seviper will gang up on each other before going after the player, essentially turning the fight into a ProtectionMission if you want an opportunity to catch the one that's by itself. Similarly, wild Durant can occasionally be found fighting a Heatmor, though it stands a better chance of surviving against them.
* GameplayAndStorySegregation: If you stuck a Zangoose and a Seviper together in a Daycare, they'd be more likely to [[HotSkittyOnWailordAction copulate]] than kill each other -- they share an egg group. (The same goes for Yungoos and Rattata, though this trope is averted for Durant and Heatmor, who have completely different egg groups.)
* HollywoodEvolution: Oddly averted. It's implied that some of their attributes are driven by survival needs in a relatively realistic manner.
** Zangoose developed poison immunity from generations of fighting Seviper.
** Durant evolved a steel shell to protect from being eaten, but this ironically actually made it more vulnerable to Heatmor's fire.
** Yungoos is an invasive species introduced to quell the Rattata population, but they became nocturnal and took on Alolan forms to avoid them. In their evolved forms Gumshoos is a detective where Raticate is a mob boss.

[[folder:The Fossil Duo]]
!!The Fossil Duo
A duo of Pokémon that can be obtained via FossilRevival. Usually, you are given the choice between one of the two fossils to obtain and later revive, though there may be a way to obtain the other, particularly post-game. Fossil Pokémon specific to this archetype are always Rock-type, and they generally evolve around level 40.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Omanyte and Kabuto lines, Lileep and Anorith lines, Cranidos and Shieldon lines, Tirtouga and Archen lines, Tyrunt and Amaura lines
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Aerodactyl[[note]]A SixthRanger independent of the Omanyte and Kabuto lines from the same generation.[[/note]], Dracozolt, Dracovish, Arctozolt, and Arctovish[[note]]Four different Pokémon based off of [[MixAndMatchCritters two different variables]], none of which are Rock-type.[[/note]]
----
* DeconstructedCharacterArchetype: The Dracozolt, Dracovish, Arctozolt, and Arctovish Pokémon are MixAndMatchCritters that CameBackWrong as a result of a faulty FossilRevival process.
* DishingOutDirt: The Pokémon that play the archetype straight are always Rock-type. The Galarian fossils notably break the trend of fossils always being Rock-type.
* FossilRevival: The means by which you receive them. You must acquire its fossil from somewhere, then bring it to a scientist specializing in reviving from fossils.
* LaterInstallmentWeirdness: The Galarian fossils break several conventions of previous fossil mons. They are not Rock-type, there are four of them, none of them evolve (unlike the fossil mons from every previous generation (except for Gen I)), and they don’t have the typical gender ratio of 7 males to 1 female that all previous fossil mons have since they [[NoBiologicalSex don’t have a gender at all]], presumably because they’re [[MixAndMatchCritters combinations of body parts from completely different species]].
* MixAndMatchCritters: The Dracozolt, Dracovish, Arctozolt, and Arctovish Pokémon, which are formed through a combination of two different fossils, one for the body and one for the head.
* MutuallyExclusivePartyMembers: In most cases, you are given the choice of only one of the fossils, though later on you may find the opportunity to get the other.
* PrehistoricAnimalAnalogue: They are inspired by real-life extinct animals, from some of the most famous dinosaurs to invertebrates and fish.
* SixthRanger:
** Aerodactyl, due to not being a member of a duo, having no evolutions (though it does have a Mega Evolution), and not even being revived from a fossil. Instead, Aerodactyl is revived from Old Amber, an item that existed alongside the fossils used to revive Omanyte and Kabuto, and available regardless of which fossil was picked earlier in the game. It otherwise fits the archetype, being a prehistoric, partial Rock-type Pokémon revived from an item, with its status being a case of EarlyInstallmentWeirdness.
** The Dracozolt, Dracovish, Arctozolt, and Arctovish Pokémon, due to not being part of a duo, having no evolutions, lacking the Rock-type, and not being true prehistoric creatures. Instead, each of these Pokémon is created through a combination of two different fossils, one for the body and one for the head. The combination of fossils determines the Pokémon's types, none of which are Rock-type. And none of these Pokémon ever actually existed in nature, instead being chimerae artifically created from different parts of Pokémon that did exist.
[[/folder]]

!The Late, Legendary, and Mythical Archetypes
The monsters that let you know you're coming to the end. Like starters, they are also "main characters" who serve more traditional roles in the story like the SwordOfPlotAdvancement, the SignatureMon of the BigBad, the FinalBoss, or an OptionalBoss who gives you a PurposelyOverpowered reward by catching them.

Because Gen I had very few legendary mons, their various attributes served as [[UnbuiltTrope prototypes]] for ideas that became separate archetypes down the road.

[[folder:The Pseudo-Legendary]]
!!The Pseudo-Legendary
Three-stage Pokémon that are rare and/or only found late in the game, they are, when fully evolved, the strongest among non-Legendary Pokémon in stats. Their final base stat totals are always 600, which put them above the minor legendaries such as Zapdos and Entei. They are almost always Dragon-type.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Dratini line, Larvitar line, Bagon line, Beldum line, Gible line, Deino line, Goomy line, Jangmo-o line, Dreepy line, Frigibax line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Slakoth line[[note]]While Slaking has a base stat total comparable to legendaries, it goes over the line and has a base stat total of 670 but with the drawback of not attacking every other turn[[/note]], Trapinch line[[note]]A three-stage line of Dragon-type Pokémon with a high evolution level, but Flygon is weaker than the true members of this archetype, and levels up faster.[[/note]], Axew line[[note]]Three-stage Dragon-type Pokémon with obscenely high Attack and a similarly-high level for evolving into its final form. However, its final stage's base stat totals are only 540, with its other stats ranging from decent to middling. Whereas true pseudo-legendaries [[MagicKnight can attack from either the physical or special end]], [[MagicallyIneptFighter Haxorus]] is [[PoorPredictableRock strictly limited to physical attacks]][[/note]], Duraludon line[[note]]Is only two-stage, even though Archaludon has 600 BST and is part-Dragon type[[/note]]
----
* EleventhHourRanger: Some of them can be found in their fully evolved forms right before the end of the game, allowing them to join the final battles, ready to kick some ass without the need of raising it up to begin with. For instance, Metagross can be found in the Giant Chasm in ''Black 2 and White 2'' right before the climax of the Team Plasma plot, Hydreigon can be found in Victory Road in ''X and Y'', and Dragapult can be encountered in Max Raids near the end of the game in ''Sword and Shield''.
* AchillesHeel: Most fully-evolved pseudo-legendaries have a defining double weakness, in order to keep them more balanced with weaker Pokémon.
** The most common double weakness is [[KillItWithIce Ice-type attacks]], which is shared by Dragonite, Salamence, and Garchomp, all of whom are dragons that possess an additional typing weak to that type.
** Kommo-o and Hydreigon both possess two of the three types that are weak to Fairy-type attacks, making them both doubly weak to them.[[note]]The latter was originaly an [[AvertedTrope aversion]] [[{{Nerf}} before the introduction of the Fairy-type]].[[/note]]
** Tyranitar is doubly weak to Fighting-type moves.
** Metagross, Kalosian and Hisuian Goodra, Dragapult and Baxcalibur all [[AvertedTrope avert]] this, as Kalosian Goodra has only one type, and the others' typings don't result in stacked weaknesses (although Dragapult is weak to both of its own types, and Baxcalibur's Ice type leaves it with several regular weaknesses).
* BreakoutCharacter: The pseudo-legendaries are routinely among the most popular and iconic Pokémon of their generations, being subjected to heavy marketing, being used as the ace Pokémon for major endgame trainers, and most games will have past pseudo-legendaries natively available. Even less popular pseudo-legendaries like Kommo-o and Goodra still rank very high in popularity polls.
* BossBattle: Their fully evolved forms are either the SignatureMon or at least a team member of endgame bosses such as the eighth Gym Leader, the founder of a villainous team, the EliteFour, or the Champion.
* {{Foil}}: The Pseudo-Legendaries to to the Early Bugs. Both archetypes are three-stage Pokémon, but while the Early Bug is very easy to evolve but gets outclassed later than the early game, the Pseudo-Legendary is difficult to evolve, but is highly rewarding to use in the late game. The contrast is best shown off by the Larvitar and Bagon lines, both of which have clear larval, pupal, and imaginal stages like the Early Bug.
* InfinityMinusOneSword: They are designed to be the strongest among non-Legendary Pokémon, their fully evolved forms having stats that rival even Legendaries themselves.
* LateCharacterSyndrome:
** With few exceptions, pseudo-legendaries in their debut generation tend to suffer from this, as they are only available when you've explored most of the region. The fact that their initial forms have low stats, they fully evolve at very high levels (usually around those of the initial fights with the Elite Four and Champion), and that they require a lot of experience to level up also does them no favors. Put in the effort to grind them up, though, and you'll be very happy that you did so.
** This is sometimes averted by pseudo-legendaries that appear after their debut generation, particularly later on in the series, as they may appear much earlier on than that generation's debuting pseudo-legendary.
* LightningBruiser: Salamence and its Mega Evolution, Garchomp, Hydreigon, and Mega Metagross all have good Speed, have strong stat boosting moves, good to great bulk, and great attacking stats (with Hydreigon focusing on Special Attack and the rest with Attack). Comparatively, however, all of them boast high stat totals that exceed even some Legendary Pokémon.
* MagicKnight: All pseudo-legendaries are capable of attacking from either the physical or special end, with one attacking stat typically being more pronounced than the other. This is accompanied by their broad movepools, allowing them plenty of options for either physical or special attacks.
* MagikarpPower: Their initial stages tend to have low stats for the point in the game they are found, usually a base stat total of 300 (with Dreepy's being even lower at 270). Most of them also evolve later than the vast majority of other Pokémon. For reference, among Pokémon with a three stage evolution line that evolve only through level, the average level of the first evolution is 23, and the average level of the second evolution is 36. For the pseudo-legendary lines, those averages are instead 34 and 52, respectively. The Deino line is particularly egregious about this. Not only does its first evolution come at level 50 (which it shares with the Dreepy line), but its second evolution comes at level '''64''', which is higher than all other Pokémon (beating out even the Dreepy line by 4 levels). By the time the Deino line reaches its first evolution, over half of the other pseudo-legendary lines will have reached their second (Bagon and Goomy lines at the same level, Gible line at level 48, and Beldum and Jangmo-o lines at level 45). If all of that wasn't enough, they require a high amount of experience points to level up. But when they fully evolve, they rival actual legendaries.
* OurDragonsAreDifferent: The vast majority of them are Dragon-types. Only the Larvitar and Beldum lines avert this.
* SuperMode: Some of them are capable of Mega Evolution, namely Tyranitar, Salamence, Metagross, and Garchomp.
* UltimateLifeForm: Paradox Pokémon, which are seemingly versions of Pokémon from the past or future, generally have superior base stat totals than their current forms, implying that these mons were and/or will become stronger at some point in their evolutionary history. The only exceptions are the three Paradoxes derived from pseudo-legendaries—Roaring Moon (Salamence), Iron Jugulis (Hydreigon), and Iron Thorns (Tyranitar)—which actually have ''inferior'' base stat totals to their modern counterparts, implying that pseudos are at the peak of their evolutionary history ''right now''.
[[/folder]]

[[folder:The Lucariolikes]]
Generation IV marketed Lucario as a new secondary mascot to the franchise, filling in for the "cool" appeal of the series where Pikachu and its clones provided the cute aspect. After Lucario's [[BreakoutCharacter breakout popularity]], this archetype became established, defined by being difficult to find in their games of origin (they're rare, only found in the lategame, only one exists per game, they're event-exclusive, etc.), having an anthropomorphic animal design, usually canines, and generally being cool to some degree.
->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Riolu line, Zorua line, Rockruff line[[note]]Especially Own Tempo Rockruff/Dusk Form Lycanroc[[/note]], Zeraora, Zarude
----
* ADayInTheLimelight: Each one has their own movie where they play a central role: Lucario in ''Anime/PokemonLucarioAndTheMysteryOfMew'', Zoroark in ''Anime/PokemonZoroarkMasterOfIllusions'', Zeraora in ''Anime/PokemonThePowerOfUs'', and Zarude in ''Anime/PokemonSecretsOfTheJungle''. Downplayed with Lycanroc, who didn't get movie but it's forms are used by important trainers including Ash from the anime.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: As of Gen IX, the Riolu line is the only one to be obtainable without an event in its game of origin. An egg with a Riolu inside it is given to the player by Riley at Iron Island in ''Diamond and Pearl''.
* FunnyAnimal: This archetype is defined by being humanoid animals.
* TropeCodifier: This archetype didn't really exist until Gen IV. Once Lucario became a BreakoutCharacter, however, Lucariolikes started gaining presence, with multiple generations since introducing their own version of Lucario to [[WolverinePublicity provide appeal to Lucario fans]].
* WolverinePublicity: After Lucario became a BreakoutCharacter, Pokémon of this archetype often receive lots of attention in marketing materials and merchandise.
[[/folder]]

[[folder:The Minor Legendary Team]]
!!The Minor Legendary Team
A group of legendaries designed around a single theme. Often referred to as legendary trios, they have since grown to include [[SixthRanger fourth rangers]] or just been a larger group to start with. Compared to the "mascot" Legendary teams, they are considerably less powerful, though still powerful among most other Pokémon and therefore allowed in Battle facilities and official tournaments.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Legendary Birds[[note]]Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres[[/note]](and their Galarian forms), Legendary Beasts[[note]]Raikou, Entei, and Suicune[[/note]], Eon Duo[[note]]Latios and Latias[[/note]], Legendary Titans[[note]]Regirock, Regice, Registeel, Regieleki, and Regidrago[[/note]], Lake Guardians[[note]]Uxie, Mesprit, and Azelf[[/note]], Forces of Nature[[note]]Tornadus, Thundurus, Landorus, and Enamorus[[/note]], Swords of Justice[[note]]Cobalion, Terrakion, Virizion, and Keldeo[[/note]], Guardian Deities[[note]]Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, Tapu Bulu, and Tapu Fini[[/note]], Treasures of Ruin[[note]]Ting-Lu, Chien-Pao, Wo-Chien, and Chi-Yu[[/note]], Loyal Three[[note]]Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti[[/note]]
----
* FireIceLightning: How they were introduced, though they've moved away from being strictly three members over time.
* InfinityMinusOneSword: They are not PurposefullyOverpowered like mascot Legendaries and even surpassed by fully evolved Pseudo-Legendaries in raw stats, but they are still quite powerful and are generally available far before the mascot Legendaries.
* OlympusMons: Albeit at the lower end of the scale when it comes to legendaries.
* OurCryptidsAreMoreMysterious: Whereas most people assume all legendaries are meant to be like gods, it's more common for minor legendaries to be akin to cryptids and in-universe urban legends -- the Legendary Birds in particular are clearly presented in the games as only being exceptionally rare and powerful and not truly godlike. Latios and Latias even moreso, as the Pokédex claims that they travel in groups.
* SequelEscalation: The original bird trio were essentially extremely rare and powerful animals. In every generation since, they have become more integral to the legends and lore of their respective regions, some outright being called deities.
[[/folder]]

[[folder:The Version Mascots]]
!!The Version Mascots
The Pokémon that appear on the cover art. Since the games come in pairs, the mascots tend to represent some sort of duality. When the enhanced version comes out, the duo is revealed to be a trio whose third member may represent balance. \\
\\
[[ZigZaggingTrope This archetype is never exactly the same from game to game]], though its purest form was defined in Gens III and Gen IV. In most cases, they are Legendary Pokémon which are far above both common wild Pokémon and minor Legendaries, often treated as major deities in their own right. Because of their overwhelming power, mascot Legendaries are generally banned from official tournaments and battle facilities.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:'''
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-->'''Mascot Legendary Teams:''' Tower Duo[[note]]Lugia and Ho-Oh[[/note]], Weather Trio[[note]]Kyogre, Groudon, and Rayquaza[[/note]], Creation Trio[[note]]Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina[[/note]], Tao Trio[[note]]Reshiram, Zekrom, and Kyurem (White & Black versions)[[/note]], Aura Trio[[note]]Xerneas, Yveltal, and Zygarde[[/note]], Light Trio[[note]]Solgaleo, Lunala, and Necrozma (Dusk Mane and Dawn Wings versions)[[/note]], Hero Duo[[note]]Zacian and Zamazenta[[/note]], Paradox Duo[[note]]Koraidon and Miraidon[[/note]]
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-->'''DLC Mascot Legendaries:''' Urshifu, Calyrex, Ogerpon, Terapagos
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-->'''Other Mascots:''' All Kanto Starters[[note]]Charizard, Venusaur, Blastoise, Pikachu, and Eevee[[/note]], Suicune
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Mew Duo[[note]]Mewtwo and Mew. They don't actually appear on the cover art of the games they're introduced in, despite effectively serving this role for these games, and [[AvertedTrope aren't]] [[ClimaxBoss encountered in the story proper]]. The two also share different legendary roles, with Mewtwo being a Hostile Legendary and Mew being a Mythical Fairy.[[/note]], Eternatus[[note]]Has very strong ties to Zacian and Zamazenta and battling it serves as the climax to the main story, but isn't seen or even mentioned until late into the game.[[/note]], Arceus[[note]]Is ostensibly the mascot of ''Legends: Arceus'', being its namesake and the [[MissionFromGod catalyst for the entire story]], but plays a limited role throughout said story as a mysterious MissionControl and [[TrueFinalBoss only makes a personal appearance at the very end of the postgame]]. It also [[ArsonMurderAndJaywalking doesn't actually appear on the cover]].[[/note]]
----
* ClimaxBoss: They usually are faced at the end of the "villainous team" plot. The mascots who play this straight are those from ''Ruby and Sapphire'', Gen IV, the Gen II remakes, Gen VI, and Gen VII. Others [[ZigZagged zig-zag]] the trope: Rayquaza in ''Emerald'' is awakened by the player in the main story but can only be fought (and caught) in the post-game; the Gen V mascots are fought ''before'' the last boss(es) of said plot; the Gen VIII mascots are the ClimaxBoss of the post-game plot, and before then they play a role similar to Rayquaza; and the Gen IX mascots are both encountered right at the start of the game where they become the player's partner ''and'' serve as the games' TrueFinalBoss. The Kanto Starters for obvious reasons aren't hunted by the main villain team nor do they have a significant role in the plot, but depending on the one the player chose, the one in the boxart can be the FinalBoss of the rival's team during their championship battle.
* ColorContrast: There’s always a reddish-warm colored one and a bluish-cool colored one. The third member is usually green or yellow to complete ChromaticArrangement. Usually the cool colored one comes first in Pokédex order, regardless of how the games were named.
** Note in the Kanto games, Venusaur was Charizard’s first cool colored mascot counterpart in the Japan only ''Red and Green'', a role that would be reprised in ''[=FireRed=] and [=LeafGreen=]'' in all regions. This tied in with the tradition of the Grass starter coming first in dex order.
** In Gen V, this is downplayed to eye color. Reshiram is a blue-eyed white dragon, Zekrom is a red-eyed black dragon, Kyurem is a yellow-eyed gray dragon. In the sequels, Black Kyurem is associated with blue lightning, and White Kyrurem is associated with red fire.
** ZigZagged in Gen VIII. Zacian has mainly blue fur and a more pastel palette, while Zamazenta is mainly red and more saturated, but Zacian wields a sword and has higher Attack and Speed stats while Zamazenta holds a shield and its peak stats are Defense and Special Defense. Note that they are both [[PrimaryColorChampion Primary Color Champions]], especially in their powered-up forms.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: The Kanto games are the only ones to use starters as version mascots.
** The Kanto games also had two enhanced versions. ''Blue'' was the original third version in Japan. ''Yellow'' was actually a fourth version despite codifying the idea of a third version worldwide.
** Kanto doubled down on starter mascots again in the ''Let's Go'' series with Pikachu and Eevee.
* {{Foil}}: The paired mascots are direct counterparts in abilities, design, or lore.
** Charizard's fire contrasts with Venusaur's grass or Blastoise's water.
** Ho-oh is a rainbow colored bird of the heavens, while Lugia is a monochrome bird of the depths.
** Groudon is a red behemoth of the land, Kyogre a blue leviathan of the seas. Rayquaza represents the ziz of the skies.
** Dialga is the hard edged master of time, and Palkia the smooth master of space. Giratina represents antimatter and chaos.
** Reshiram is a white dragon of truth, and Zekrom a black dragon of ideals. Kyurem is the empty husk left behind when the two split apart. It can FusionDance with either of the others to approximate its orginal form, but all three still have never recombined together.
** Xerneas represents life, while Yveltal represents death. Zygarde represents the delicate balance of nature whose cells can scatter and combine as needed.
** Solgaleo represents the sun, where Lunala represents the moon. Necrozma is a prism that feeds on their light.
** Zacian is the sword, Zamazenta is the shield, Urshifu is the armor, and Calyrex the crown. Together they make a full set of regalia. Eternatus could be said to represent a cannon, or a [[DragonsVersusKnights dragon to be slain.]]
** Koraidon represents the primeval past and Miraidon represents the cybernetic future.
* InterfaceSpoiler: While they’re pitched as a duo of mascots, it’s immediately obvious that most are actually part of a trio when you just look at the Pokédex. It’s no surprise when Blastoise becomes the mascot of a ''Blue Version'' any more than Rayquaza getting an ''Emerald Version.'' It was surprising that Zygarde never got a "Z Version", though.
* OlympusMons: Mascot Legendaries are what people think when they think "Legendary Pokémon", being obscenely powerful Mons which are often worshipped as gods.
* PurposefullyOverpowered: Mascot Legendaries are generally extremely powerful in both stats and movepools, which leads them to be banned in battle facilities. Only Suicune and Urshifu are exempted from this, the former also being a Minor Legendary.
* SwordOfPlotAdvancement: The starters of course are the original [[ItMayHelpYouOnYourQuest sword of plot beginnings.]] In later games, you may be forced to battle or catch the mascot legendary to progress. This happens typically during the showdown with the boss of the evil team, or as a rite of passage before facing the Elite Four.
* ZigZaggingTrope: The common traits of version mascots are constantly mixed up and subverted in every generation. The straightest examples are in Gen III and Gen IV.
** Several of the tropes associated with version mascots were [[CompositeCharacter composited]] from two Kanto sources:
*** The idea of the version mascots having warm/cool ColorContrast was originated by the Kanto starters, with Charizard being the warm-colored mascot in ''Red'' and ''[=FireRed=]'' in all regions and the cool-colored mascots being Venusaur (''Green'' in Japan, ''[=LeafGreen=]'' in all regions) and Blastoise (''Blue''). Pikachu in ''Yellow'' would additionally establish yellow as one of the common colors for the "third member". Obviously, none of the Kanto starters are legendaries and so have no connotations of being rare, powerful, or valuable to evil factions.
*** The Mew duo represents nature vs technology as the ancestor of natural born Pokémon, and a man-made clone/genetic experiment. Mewtwo is also associated with Giovanni the way some team bosses are associated with a mascot legendary, even if Team Rocket isn't obsessed with catching it. In some continuities, he’s partially responsible for creating it. Of course, Mewtwo and Mew obviously aren't the mascots of any game, nor do they have the usual warm/cool ColorContrast.
** Ho-oh and Lugia still weren't pursued by the evil team, but they share Mewtwo's stat total and appear as proper mascots. They were a true duo, but still ended up getting an enhanced third version. Suicune was thrown in as the new mascot as the most popular of the Legendary Beasts.
** Groudon and Kyogre were both pursued by separate evil teams in the same Generation. This was the first time the duality of the mascots was balanced by a third member, Rayquaza, who also got to be the mascot of the third game.
** Gen IV only had one evil team that was after either mascot, and gave the third member a unique Forme Change in their enhanced game. Otherwise it echoed Gen III closely.
** Gen V skipped doing a "Gray Version" for Kyurem, and instead introduced the idea of the third member doing a FusionDance with the duo. This resulted in the first paired enhanced versions instead of just a single third version.
** Gen VI skipped any sort of enhanced version for Zygarde, who ended up becoming just a sidequest in Gen VII.
** Gen VII did a lot with legendaries, and the newly christened Ultra Beasts. For the duo, it introduced the idea of the mascots coming from a branched evolution line. For the third member, it reprised both the FusionDance with other mascots for paired enhanced versions (Necrozma's Dusk Mane and Dawn Wings modes), as well as giving the third member a unique super mode (Ultra Necrozma).
** Gen VIII looked like it would reprise Necrozma with Eternatus. However, instead of a new enhanced version, the original versions were enhanced with DLC. The DLC mascots Urshifu and Calyrex don't have much to do with the original duo. Interestingly, it is the first time since Gen I that there are four distinct mascots in a single generation.
*** Urshifu in itself has mascot-like duality in two forms that evolve from Kubfu. This has echoes of Solgaleo and Lunala both evolving from the Cosmog line in Gen VII.
*** Calyrex has FusionDance style duality by combining with Glastrier or Spectrier, much like Kyurem and Necrozma.
** Gen IX generally followed in Gen VIII's footsteps, but with the Paradox Duo being more the subject of {{Urban Legend}}s rather than their region's mythology due to their paradoxical nature. In addition, the local evil team had nothing to do with them whatsoever.
*** Ogerpon inverts the "worshipped as deity" bit by virtue of being a HeroWithBadPublicity.
*** Terapagos follows in Eternatus' footsteps by being the source of the regional gimmick, albeit only being revealed in the DLC after being hinted at in the main story.
[[/folder]]

[[folder:The Third Legendary]]
!!The Third Legendary

A group that largely overlaps with the Version Mascots, they generally are the secret third member of the group composed of the paired versions' mascots, and usually become in turn the mascots of each generation's UpdatedReRelease. Since each pair tends to incorporate a theme of duality, the Third Legendary often symbolizes balance between the two. Like the Version Mascots, their role has been largely codified in Gen III and IV.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Rayquaza, Giratina, Kyurem, Necrozma, Terapagos
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Suicune[[note]]Belongs to a different group of Legendary Pokémon than Ho-Oh and Lugia[[/note]], Zygarde[[note]]Not a version mascot[[/note]], Eternatus[[note]]Not a version mascot, and technically does not belong to the duo of Zacian and Zamazenta[[/note]], Calyrex[[note]]Like Eternatus, it doesn't belong to the duo of Zacian and Zamazenta from the base game, and is instead the leader of its own separate trio of Legendary Pokémon[[/note]]
----
* AntiVillain: The case for "evil" Third Legendaries: Kyurem has been enslaved by the human BigBad, Necrozma [[BeingTorturedMakesYouEvil was driven mad by being forcibly exploited by humans]] and Eternatus arguably runs on BlueAndOrangeMorality and may just be trying to feed itself.
* BreakingOldTrends:
** Eternatus isn't technically the third member of a group alongside Zacian and Zamazenta, but it's their arch-enemy. Its story is also resolved in the paired versions rather than in an UpdatedReRelease, and it's the ClimaxBoss of said versions' Legendary Pokémon plot instead of the respective Warrior Pokémon.
** Calyrex, the mascot of ''The Crown Tundra'' DLC, leads its own trio of Legendary Pokémon and can do a FusionDance with them, but its role in the plot is completely distinct from the base games. It also completely subverts the SortingAlgorithmOfEvil and lacks Dragon typing.
** Terapagos has no relationship whatsoever with Koraidon and Miraidon besides their presence at Area Zero. It also lacks Dragon-typing, being pure Normal-type in its base and Terastal Form, while adopting the [[AllYourPowersCombined Stellar-type]] in its Stellar Form. It's also the first one of its archetype to have a discernible gender, with the in-game one being male.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: Suicune is the first case of a Legendary Pokémon being used as the mascot of an UpdatedReRelease, but it belongs to an entirely different group than Lugia and Ho-Oh (but is implied to be subordinate to the latter), isn't the focus of the story of ''Crystal'' (though it is the focus of a sub-plot), and it doesn't have a SuperMode nor Dragon typing.
* EldritchAbomination: Giratina (a draconic insect-like creature), Zygarde (who's TheWormThatWalks), Necrozma (an extradimensional entity that feeds on light), Eternatus (a massive, skeletal alien), and Terapagos (a crystalline turtle who can wield the power of all Pokémon types as well as manipulate time itself) all qualify.
* FusionDance: Kyurem and Necrozma can do this with either of the respective paired versions' mascots. Calyrex does the same with Glastrier or Spectrier (though, while the gameplay treats this the same way as Kyurem and Necrozma, lore-wise Calyrex merely mounts its steed without actually "fusing" with them). Zygarde is also this in the lore when switching between forms: it gains or loses the autonomous cells and cores which make up its being.
* GiantSpaceFleaFromNowhere: Since they usually become {{Ascended Extra}}s in later titles, their appearances as postgame encounters in their games of origin can come across as this.
* OptionalBoss: In the original paired versions up until Generation VII.
* OurDragonsAreDifferent: Excepting Suicune, Calyrex, and Terapagos[[note]]Though, technically speaking, his Stellar Tera type means he can wield ''all'' Pokémon types, Dragon included[[/note]] they all are part-Dragon type (Necrozma only in its Ultra form).
* SecretCharacter:
** In the paired versions up until Generation VII, they are found as [[OptionalBoss Optional Bosses]] with little to no explanation or plot relevance. This allows them to be the focus of publicity for the UpdatedReRelease.
** Has become a ForgottenTrope from Generation VIII onwards. The "original" Third Legendary from that generation, Eternatus, is faced during the base game's story as the ClimaxBoss, and the changes in the main series's release model -- from UpdatedReRelease to DownloadableContent -- means that following Third Legendaries such as Calyrex and Terapagos are the stars of their own DLC campaigns.
* SortingAlgorithmOfEvil: They become more and more villainous with each passing generation. Rayquaza is firmly heroic and quells the fight between Groudon and Kyogre, Giratina acts on its own to stop the human BigBad but involuntarily threatens reality, Kyurem is enslaved by the BigBad, Necrozma was originally benevolent but was driven mad by a GameBreakingInjury that forced it to steal light to survive, and Eternatus is a perfectly sane WalkingWasteland which may or may not be aware of the devastation it causes. Those who are exceptions are Suicune (who isn't connected to the main plot), Zygarde (who is heroic, and never was the focus of a game) and Calyrex (fully heroic, and like Suicune, its relevant plotline is separate from the base games' one). Terapagos does go berserk at the climax of his plot and needs to be stopped, but it isn't clear how malicious is he being.
* {{Superboss}}: Often this, as they're likely the strongest wild Pokémon a player may find.
* SuperMode: Starting from Gen IV, they all have one (or more), generally with higher stats, doubling as OneWingedAngel for hostile Pokémon:
** Giratina gains its Origin Forme in the Distortion World or when holding a Griseous Orb;
** Kyurem can do a FusionDance with either Reshiram or Zekrom, becoming respectively White and Black Kyurem;
** Rayquaza gains a Mega Evolution in the Gen III remakes;
** Zygarde has a 10% and a 50% Forme. A Zygarde of either Forme with the ability Power Construct turns into the Complete Forme when under 50% HP in battle[[note]]10% and Complete Formes, and Power Construct, debut in Gen VII; in its native Gen VI, Zygarde is stuck with the 50% Forme[[/note]].
** Necrozma has a Fusion Dance process similar to Kyurem, becoming Dusk Mane or Dawn Wings Necrozma; it can become Ultra Necrozma from either of these forms;
** Eternatus becomes Eternamax Eternatus[[note]]This form is only seen in a boss battle and, briefly, when using the move Eternabeam, but it is otherwise unusable in gameplay[[/note]].
** Calyrex can use the Reins of Unity to mount Glastrier or Spectrier, becoming respectively Ice Rider Calyrex and Ghost Rider Calyrex, swapping its Grass type for the one of its steed and boosting its base stat total to 680;
** Terapagos switches between three forms: Normal, which is exclusive to non-battle situations; Terastal, which he automatically assumes in battle; and Stellar, which is exclusive to Terastallizing and has Stellar Tera type.
* UndeadAbomination: Giratina (a {{Dracolich}} whose realm is said to be where dead souls gather), Kyurem (said to be the husk of the dragon who split into Zekrom and Reshiram), Necrozma, and Eternatus (whose names include Greek words for "death"/"dead") are all associated with the concept of death.
* ZigZaggingTrope: Like the Version Mascot above, how closely each Third Legendary actually adheres to the archetype varies from generation to generation:
** Gen II has Suicune as the mascot of ''Crystal'', and while it has a lore connection to ''Gold'''s mascot Ho-Oh, it's otherwise unrelated to the main plot of the game.
** Gen III and Gen IV are the main codifiers of the archetype, with Rayquaza and Giratina being the Version Mascot of the respective generation's UpdatedReRelease and belonging to the same trios as the original paired versions' mascots.
** Gen V and Gen VII experiment with the concept, each having a pair of [[UpdatedReRelease Updated Re Releases]] instead of a single one, whose mascot is the fusion between Kyurem/Necrozma and one of the paired versions' mascots.
** Gen VI eschews this completely, having no UpdatedReRelease and no role for poor Zygarde.
** Gen VIII: Eternatus is not a version mascot, while Calyrex is the mascot of its own separate DLC campaign and is otherwise unrelated from the base games' mascots.
** Gen IX: Terapagos plays the archetype straighter compared to the preceding generation, as he's directly connected to the Area Zero plot of the base game, though he too only appears in ''The Indigo Disk'' DLC and eschews Dragon typing for the newly introduced [[AllYourPowersCombined Stellar type]].
[[/folder]]

[[folder:The Hostile Legendary]]
!!The Hostile Legendary
An extremely rare Pokémon that doesn't play well with humans. Going after them isn't just difficult but actually dangerous. Some are distrustful of mankind because they're hyper in tune with nature. Others are hostile because they themselves have been corrupted by science, or are alien in origin.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Mewtwo, Deoxys, Darkrai, Genesect, Type: Null, Zeraora, Zarude, Spectrier, Glastrier
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Koraidon and Miraidon[[note]]Unlike the others, they're not a SingleSpecimenSpecies; one Koraidon/Miraidon is a friendly mascot legendary, while the second is antagonistic a-la this archetype, fighting the player and causing problems in the backstory[[/note]], the Loyal Three and Pecharunt[[note]]Rather than being {{Anti Villain}}s, the Loyal Three and Pecharunt are straight-up evil, with Pecharunt directing the Loyal Three to steal from innocents and decieve humans into giving them food and gifts. Pecharunt itself brainwashes people and Pokémon with its toxic mochi.[[/note]]
----
* AntiVillain: Unlike the fairies who are often to be protected, and the mascots that are just forces of nature, the hostile legendary is framed as an outright antagonist in the anime movies. Some may undergo a HeelFaceTurn by the end.
* ArtificialHuman: Mewtwo, Deoxys, Genesect, and Type: Null were all created/altered by humans in some way.
* DefrostingIceQueen: They tend to start out with a base happiness of 0, implying that it's a lot harder to earn their trust than it is with most Pokémon.
* HeelFaceTurn: In keeping with the anime's philosophy that no Pokémon is inherently evil. Whether they come around at the midpoint, the climax, or the epilogue, they do reach an understanding with the heroes eventually. In the games, however, it depends on the mon and often requries the player to catch them first. Type:Null takes this further by evolving into Silvally via friendship.
* HumansAreTheRealMonsters: Many of them lash out after being scorned by humans.
* PoorCommunicationKills: They might just be scary-looking customers that can't explain their actions. In this case, they're not hostile because they hate humans, but because humans hate them.
* UltimateLifeform: An interesting sub-archetype that crops up every odd numbered generation:
** Scientists cloned Mewtwo from the DNA of Mew to create the strongest Pokémon, and its two Mega Evolutions grant it the highest Attack and Special Attack of all Pokémon.
** Deoxys can freely change its form to specialize in either offense, defense, or speed, near maximizing their respective stats.
** Genesect was already an apex prehistoric predator before being revived and further enhanced by Team Plasma to act as a living superweapon.
** Type: Null is a chimeric Pokémon modeled after Arceus to adapt to any confrontation and combat [[EldritchAbomination Ultra Beasts]].
[[/folder]]

[[folder:The Mythical Fairy]]
!!The Mythical Fairy
A diminutive cute fairy-like Pokémon, typically with perfectly balanced stats and a massive movepool. Their most distinguishing feature in most games is the inability to actually encounter them. Most are locked behind real life in-person giveaway events or limited time online promotions. \\
\\
This archetype was a series staple for the first five generations, but has been retired afterwards for more unique Mythicals.

%%TO PRESERVE FONT SIZE; DO NOT REMOVE
->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Mew, Celebi, Jirachi, Manaphy and Shaymin, Victini
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Lake Guardians[[note]]Uxie, Mesprit, and Azelf. Superficially resemble this archetype through their [[BadassAdorable designs]] and [[TheFairFolk names]], but are properly considered Minor Legendaries with their in-game prominence and lower, uneven (even for [[JackOfAllStats Mesprit]]) base stats.[[/note]], Phione and Arceus[[note]]Phione is hatched from a Manaphy egg, and is [[MasterOfNone all-around far weaker]] than a standard Mythical Fairy. Arceus isn't a fairy at all, but otherwise fits the other criteria of having [[MasterOfAll all-around superior stats]] and being locked behind real-world events (originally unable to be encountered at all through legitimate means).[[/note]], Meloetta[[note]]Fluxes between being a specially-oriented MightyGlacier and physically-oriented LightningBruiser, depending on which form it's in.[[/note]], Diancie and Hoopa, Magearna and Marshadow[[note]]Neither duo of which have perfectly balanced stats; each Pokémon is designated towards specific playstyles.[[/note]], Calyrex[[note]]Can transform into either a physically-oriented MightyGlacier or a specially-oriented LightningBruiser. It only has balanced stats in its base form; even then, its HP is slightly more than its other stats, which are [[MasterOfNone all-around middling]] by this archetype's standards. Lastly, it is categorized as a Legendary and not as a Mythical Pokémon.[[/note]], Pecharunt[[note]]A small and cute mythical, its stats are all a flat 88 except for its monstrous 160 base Defense stat. It's also ''far'' more malicious than the others, giving it elements of the Hostile Legendary archetype.[[/note]]
----
* BadassAdorable: Despite their small size, they're relatively balanced powerhouses.
* CuteCrittersActChildlike: In the anime, they tend to be portrayed as cheerful and playful, just wanting to have fun.
* JackOfAllStats: In the straightest examples, they have perfectly balanced stats (100 in each) for a base stat total of 600. Looser examples play with strengths and weaknesses, but still add up to 600.
* LivingMacGuffin: Their role in a lot of the anime movies, if not outright being a DamselInDistress.
* MasterOfAll: Mew is said to be the ancestor of all Pokémon and has the genetic code to be able to use every teachable move in the game. Other mythical fairies have large movepools but are more limited to their type specialities. Arceus is not a fairy, but reprises Mew's role as the originator as the TopGod [[OlympusMons of Pokémon.]] It can learn all teachable moves (except those that explicitly use hands, since it's a quadruped) and can also change its type.
* PsychicPowers: The vast majority have the Psychic-type, with only Gen IV and Gen VII being the odd ones out (discounting Arceus holding the Mind Plate for Gen IV).
* WolverinePublicity: Being tiny and adorable, they're always at the forefront of movies, marketing, and merchandise in their respective generations.
[[/folder]]

[[folder:The Invasive Species]]
!!The Invasive Species
Incredibly powerful and deadly Pokémon who are critical to the plots of their games of origin. The members of this group have been displaced from their proper worlds/timelines and their introduction into this one is an ecological disaster waiting to happen. They typically are a single stage Pokémon with 570 BST[[note]]Though Poipole only has a BST of 420 while Nagandel caps out at 540, Roaring Moon, Walking Wake, Iron Valiant, and Iron Leaves all possess a BST of 590, and Koraidon and Miraidon each boasts a whopping 670 BST[[/note]] and an ability that boosts their most noteworthy stat.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Ultra Beasts[[note]]Nihelego, Buzzwole, Pheromosa, Xurkitree, Celesteela, Kartana, Guzzlord, Stakataka, Blacephelon[[/note]], Ancient Paradox Pokémon[[note]]Great Tusk, Scream Tail, Brute Bonnet, Flutter Mane, Slither Wing, Sandy Shocks, Roaring Moon, Walking Wake, Gouging Fire, Raging Bolt[[/note]], Future Paradox Pokémon[[note]]Iron Treads, Iron Bundle, Iron Hands, Iron Jugulis, Iron Moth, Iron Thorns, Iron Valiant, Iron Leaves, Iron Boulder, Iron Crown[[/note]]
->'''Pokémon who are atypical examples of this archetype:''' Poipole line[[note]]Despite being an Ultra Beast, Poipole evolves into Naganadel as apart of a two-stage evolutionary live rather than a single-stage one like its contemporaries. It is also relatively passive for an Ultra Beast and has never played an antagonistic role in any ''Pokémon'' media[[/note]], Paradox Duo[[note]]They possess different signature abilities from their brethren, in addition to not following the traditional naming conventions for Paradox Pokémon, at least not normally, as Koraidon and Miraidon are also known as 'Winged King' and 'Iron Serpent' respectively.[[/note]]
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Deoxys[[note]]Introduced well before the archetype was cemented and has no plot significance in its introductory generation but does fit the broad strokes of the concept being an otherworldly OutsideContextProblem[[/note]], Cosmog line, Necrozma[[note]]The Light Trio is viewed as being similar in nature to the Ultra Beasts due to their ability to open Ultra Wormholes but aren't officially considered ones themselves. Additionally, Solgaleo and Lunala are a part of a three-stage evolutionary line rather a single stage one[[/note]], Eternatus[[note]]Fills a similar role in the narrative, but is a single Pokémon divorced from others.[[/note]]
----
* AlwaysChaoticEvil: {{Subverted|Trope}}. Despite being incredibly aggressive and deadly, they are essentially just displaced wild animals acting out of fear and/or natural instinct rather than genuine malice. Once caught, they can be just as affectionate as any other Pokémon.
* BadassAdorable: They include the likes of Kartana, Poiple, Scream Tail, and Iron Bundle, all of which are as threatening as they are cute.
* BossBattle: You tend face an uncatchable, wild specimen towards the mid-game to serve as your introduction to these otherworldly creatures: The Alola games have you fight a Nihelego in Aether Paradise and depending on whether you're playing ''Scarlet'' or ''Violet'', the Quaking Earth Titan will either be Great Tusk or Iron Treads.
* IntroducedSpeciesCalamity: In their places of origin, many of these creatures are simply just normal Pokémon. In the regions the player encounters them, they're forces of destruction that threaten to upset the natural world of Pokémon.
* KnightOfCerebus: The stakes tend to rapidly escalate once these guys enter the picture. Notably, amongst their numbers are some of the few Pokémon who've been explicitly confirmed to have killed and/or seriously injured humans, namely Nihilego (who has parasitized a human) and Koraidon/Miraidon (who have killed/mortally wounded a human).
* LivingMacguffin: They are the objects of obsession for the [[BigBad Big Bads]] of their debut games, who seek to live amongst them despite the disastrous consequences that would come about from unleashing them upon the world.
* NoBiologicalSex: All of them are officially genderless and incapable of breeding in-game.
* NumerologicalMotif: The Ultra Beasts are themed on prime numbers, with there always being a known amount of species equal to a prime number, their base stats are all prime numbers[[note]]except for Naganadel's Speed of 121[[/note]], and they learn moves only at prime number levels except for level 1. Similarly, not counting Koraidon and Miraidon, the base stats are all odd numbers for Ancient Paradox Pokémon and even numbers for Future Paradox Pokémon.
* OddNameOut: They tend to be referred to by vague titles to highlight their enigmatic nature: The Ultra Beast are codenamed "UB ___" based off of their most notable features while the names of the Paradox Pokémon come across more as broad descriptions than actual names. However this is ultimately {{Downplayed|Trope}}, as all the Ultra Beast are given genuine names upon being caught. Conversely, the Paradox Duo, "Winged King" and "Iron Serpent", initially followed the naming convention before being renamed Koraidon and Miraidon respectively, implying that it's possible that the other Paradox Pokémon may also one day receive proper names of their own.
* OlympusMons: {{Averted|Trope}}. Despite possessing stats comparable to legendaries, none of them are inherently special or unique. In fact, most of them are actually fairly common in their natural habitats.
* OutsideContextProblem: None of them are native to the Pokémon World as we know it, the Ultra Beast being from different dimensions and the Paradox Pokémon being from either the prehistoric era or distant future. They are also far more powerful and aggressive than the standard Pokémon and could potentially devastate entire regions if left unchecked.
* RuleOfSeven: The archetype was created for Generation VII. There are seven original Ultra Beasts (before ''Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon'' added more), seven Ancient Paradox Pokémon, and seven Future Paradox Pokémon introduced in the base game. Paradox Pokémon always learn new moves at levels that are multiples of seven.
* StatusBuff: The Ultra Beast all possess the ability Beast Boost, which raises their dominant stat by one increment for [[ChainLethalityEnabler every Pokémon they defeat]]. The Paradox Pokémon possess similar abilities, Protosynthesis for the Ancient Paradoxes and Quark Drive for the Future ones, which are activated by sunny weather and electric terrains respectively. Koraidon's Orichalcum Pulse and Miraidon's Haldron Engine are essentially upgraded versions of the standard Paradox abilities, as not only do the boost the Paradox Duo's stats, but they also cause the field conditions that allow their respective branches of Paradox Pokémon activate their own stat boosts.
* VersionExclusiveContent:
** Buzzwole, Kartana, and Blacephalon are exclusive to ''Sun/Ultra Sun'', while Pheromosa, Celesteela, and Stakataka are exclusive to ''Moon/Ultra Moon''.
** The Ancient Paradox Pokémon can only be found in ''Scarlet''. Conversely, the Future Paradox ones are only available in ''Violet''.
[[/folder]]

* WeakToMagic: Gallade is weak against Fairy-types, Ceruledge is weak against Ghost-types, and Iron Valiant is weak against both Fairy-types and Psychic-types.

* ClimaxBoss: They usually are faced at the end of the "villainous team" plot. The mascots who play this straight are those from ''Ruby and Sapphire'', Gen IV, the Gen II remakes, Gen VI, and Gen VII. Others [[ZigZagged zig-zag]] the trope: Rayquaza in ''Emerald'' is awakened by the player in the main story but can only be fought (and caught) in the post-game; the Gen V mascots are fought ''before'' the last boss(es) of said plot; the Gen VIII mascots are the ClimaxBoss of the post-game plot, and before then they play a role similar to Rayquaza. The Kanto Starters for obvious reasons aren't hunted by the main villain team nor do they have a significant role in the plot, but depending on the one the player chose, the one in the boxart can be the FinalBoss of the rival's team during their championship battle.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Ultra Beasts[[note]]Nihelego, Buzzwole, Pheromosa, Xurkitree, Celesteela, Kartana, Guzzlord, Stakataka, Blacephelon[[/note]], Ancient Paradox Pokémon[[note]]Great Tusk, Scream Tail, Brute Bonnet, Flutter Mane, Slither Wing, Sandy Shocks, Roaring Moon, Walking Wake, Raging Bolt[[/note]], Future Paradox Pokémon[[note]]Iron Treads, Iron Bundle, Iron Hands, Iron Jugulis, Iron Moth, Iron Thorns, Iron Valiant, Iron Leaves, Iron Crown[[/note]]

[[folder:The Early Cat]]
!!The Early Cat
A two-stage cat line that tends to be very common in the early game. Often of the Normal-type, though they tend to learn several Dark-type moves as well (with the Purrloin and Alolan Meowth lines outright being Dark-type). They often have have large, varied movepools, but lackluster stats in everything except for Speed.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Meowth line (Kantonian and Alolan), Skitty line, Glameow line, Purrloin line, Litleo line, Espurr line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Shinx line[[note]]Though based off cats and available early in its home games, it's an Electric-type three-stage evolution line that's not particularly fast[[/note]], Galarian Meowth line[[note]]In addition to being Steel-type, it's built as a MightyGlacier[[/note]]

* CatsAreMean: Often portrayed as antagonistic, or being used by antagonists. They're commonly seen on the teams of their respective region's evil team grunts. The Skitty line is an exception, as it has never been used by any villains.
* CombatPragmatist: They often learn several Dark-type moves, which serves to emphasize their sneaky, pragmatic natures. The Purrloin and Alolan Meowth lines take it a step further by outright being Dark-type.
* ComMons: Like many other early game archetypes, most of them are everywhere on early land routes. Skitty is an exception; they're very rare in every game they appear in.
* ConfusionFu: They tend to learn lots of different moves from different types, with tons of utility moves as well. Unfortunately, they don't usually have the stats to back this up.
* CrutchCharacter: They tend to be catchable early on and evolve quickly, but have subpar stats in their final forms. Again, this varies depending on the Pokémon and game — Skitty is too weak to even really carry you through the early-game, while Meowth (in the Gen I games) and Litleo are strong choices for the whole game.
* CuteKitten: The first stages tend to be absolutely adorable. The Skitty line is this throughout its entire evolutionary line. Not coincidentally, it is the only one of them that is never used by any antagonists.
* FragileSpeedster: Their best stat is almost always Speed, while their defenses tend to be rather lacking.
* PantheraAwesome: Some of the fully-evolved cats look like big cats. Pyroar stands out, but Liepard isn't behind either.
* RightHandCat: Often a favorite among evil teams, as well as EliteFour members.
* UndergroundMonkey: Meowth has a whopping ''three'' variants, all of which fill the archetype in their respective regions.

[[folder:The Early Plant]]
!!The Early Plant
A Grass-type Pokémon based on a plant that appear in early sections of the games. They usually have a three-stage evolutionary line, with the final stage requiring something special (such as an evolution stone being used on the Pokémon) in order to be achieved.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Oddish line, Bellsprout line, Hoppip line, Lotad line, Seedot line, Budew line, Bounsweet line
->'''Pokémon that have elements of this archetype:''' Sunkern line, Cottonee line, Petilil line, Gossifleur line, Capsakid line[[note]]Each of these has only two stages.[[/note]], Flabébé line[[note]]Lacks the Grass type[[/note]], Smoliv line. [[note]]Lacks a special evolution method.[[/note]]

* GreenThumb: They're always Grass-types.
* LaterInstallmentWeirdness:
** Steenee requires leveling up while knowing Stomp in order to evolve into Tsareena.
** Dolliv to Arboliva is a no-frills level up evolution in contrast to almost every other second-to-third form evolution in the archetype which requires a special method.
* MagikarpPower: Their first forms tend to be quite weak, with low stats and [[PoorPredictableRock shallow movepools]]. They tend to get a big power boost in their final forms, though.
* {{Planimal}}: Being Grass-types, this comes with the territory.
* PowerOfTheSun: Nearly all of them have at least one ability that works under Sunny Day conditions, and several need a Sun Stone to reach their final evolution.
* StatusEffects: A lot of them make use of the "powder" moves, such as [[ForcedSleep Sleep Powder]] and Poison Powder.

[[folder:The Mushroom]]
!!The Mushroom
An archetype that has appeared in every odd-numbered generation thus far, these Pokémon are all based on mushrooms. They are Grass-types found rather early on and usually evolve in the 20's, but what makes this archetype particularly unique is the move Spore, which is exclusive to this archetype and is the only perfect-accuracy move that causes Sleep.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Paras line, Shroomish line, Foongus line, Morelull line, Toedscool line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Brute Bonnet[[note]]Is a mushroom that learns Spore and is introduced in an odd-numbered generation, but is a late-game single-stage Pokémon, albeit one whose design is derived from Amoonguss.[[/note]]

* ForcedSleep: While far from the only Pokémon move to cause this, the Spore move unique to this archetype takes this further by being the only 100% accuracy move that immediately causes sleep when it hits.[[note]]The only other 100% accuracy sleep-causing move is Yawn, but it requires that the target remain in battle for one more turn before sleep activates.[[/note]]
* FungiArePlants: They are mushroom-based Pokémon and classified as Grass-type alongside other plant-based Pokémon.
* GreenThumb: They are always Grass-type.
* MushroomMan: They share a common basis in mushrooms.
* PinataEnemy: They may hold the Tiny Mushroom or Big Mushroom items that can be sold for money or exchanged for services.
* SecretArt: Spore, which is fittingly called Mushroom Spore in Japanese, is exclusive to this archetype.
* StatusEffects: In addition to their sleep-inducing Spore move, they also share the Effect Spore ability (except for Toedscool, who has an exclusive ability), allowing contacting moves a 30% chance of triggering poison, paralysis, or sleep on the opponent. Notably, Effect Spore is only found on this archetype as a normal ability, with other Pokémon only receiving it as a hidden ability.
* StoneWall: Most of them have the capability to take damage, but are lacking in speed to prevent them from being fast users of Spore. The only exceptions are Breloom, which is more of a GlassCannon, and Toedscruel, which has a good 100 speed, but its ability gives it [[ActionInitiative negative priority]] on [[NonDamagingStatusInflictionAttack status moves]] as an ObviousRulePatch.
[[/folder]]

!The General Game Animal Archetypes
Once you get past the first gym or two, the adventure opens up. As you explore more dungeons, caves, lakes, and buildings, the Pokémon diversify even more. Most of them are still based on real-life animals, though, and certain kinds of animals tend to get used over and over, so they tend to fill similar roles through the various games.

[[folder:The Pikaclone]]
!!The Pikaclone
Thanks to Pikachu's role as a SeriesMascot, the idea behind it expanded to a whole spiritual line of Pokémon sharing many of its elements: the Electric-type, a rodent-based design, and noticeable {{Blush Sticker}}s on their cheeks. While Pikachu has an evolutionary line, Pikaclones almost never evolve.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Pikachu line, Plusle and Minun, Pachirisu, Emolga, Dedenne, Togedemaru, Morpeko, Pawmi line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Marill line[[note]]Shares some visual and thematic similarities to its predecessor, even being referred to as "Pikablu" before its official name was release. However, it deviates from the standard color and typing of the standard Pikaclone, has a complete evolutionary line, and plays out like a MightyGlacier when every other example is some degree of FragileSpeedster.[[/note]], Minccino line[[note]]Though initially conceived as a Clefairy clone, in execution Minccino has many traits of the Pikaclones, including being a FragileSpeedster, being based on some sort of rodent (a chinchilla in this case) and serving as one of the mascots for the generation it was introduced. Like Marill though, it differs in typing and color, and while most Pikaclones focus on hitting hard with one element (typically electricity) this line focuses more on DeathOfAThousandCuts and [[ConfusionFu has access to many different elements to suit this style on top of its normal typing]].[[/note]], Mimikyu[[note]]Appears in the same generation as Togedemaru and plays out more like a DeconstructedCharacterArchetype than a true example.[[/note]]
----

[[folder:The Two-Stage Canine]]
!!The Two-Stage Canine
Two-stage, canine-based Pokémon that tend to be found in the early-to-mid game. Their evolutions are quite powerful, and as such are often used by more powerful trainers, such as Ace Trainers.

-> '''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Growlithe line, Vulpix line, Houndour line, Electrike line, Rockruff line, Greavard line
-> '''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Snubbull line[[note]]More anthropomorphic than its contemporaries, but nonetheless deviates from the design choices seen from Lucario and its successors, being a [[BullyBulldog bulldog]] with [[PinkMeansFeminine feminine features]]. It's also [[MightyGlacier slower]] and [[MagicallyIneptFighter more physical]] than Pokémon of this archetype. Has appeared as TheAntagonist of ''[[Recap/PokemonPK1PikachusVacation Pikachu's Vacation]]'', as well as an AdvertisedExtra in ''Film/PokemonDetectivePikachu'', but has otherwise not been [[WolverinePublicity publicized]] to the same extent as Lucario and its successors.[[/note]], Poochyena line[[note]]They're more strongly associated with the Common Dark-type archetype, due to their lower stats and partial ComMon status. Also takes some inspiration from [[HeinousHyena hyenas]], which are ''not'' canids.[[/note]], Riolu line[[note]]They're fully bipedal and aren't available until the mid-lategame in their source games[[/note]], Zorua Line[[note]]Zoroark is bipedal and the line is event-exclusive in their source games[[/note]], Lillipup line[[note]]Is a three-stage line available early on, though the final stage has relatively high stats. It has lower-than-usual Speed without Sand Rush, however.[[/note]], Swirlix line[[note]]Swirlix is a more abstract representation of canines, while Slurpuff lacks any resemblance to them outside of its "ears" and {{Dogface}}. Additionally, it evolves via trade and has lower stats than most other examples.[[/note]], Yamper line[[note]]While their second stage mostly fits this archetype aside from lower-than-usual stats, their first stage deviates strongly from others, being based off a corgi and possessing StoneWall stats.[[/note]], Nickit line[[note]]Like the Poochyena line, moreso associated with the Common Dark-type archetype, despite being based on foxes.[[/note]], Fidough line[[note]]Comes earlier than other Pokémon of its archetype, and the final stage has lower stats than usual.[[/note]], Maschiff line[[note]]Again, comes earlier than usual, making it closely associated with the Common Dark-type archetype. However, Mabosstiff's base stats are more in-line with others of its archetype, minus lower-than-usual Speed.[[/note]]

* AngryGuardDog: A few of these dog Pokémon can be sinister, especially the Houndour line, which are often used by various villains.
* BigFriendlyDog: Many second-stage canine Pokémon are large, friendly, and fiercely loyal to their trainers, if properly trained.
* HeroicDog: They're sometimes portrayed as being used by the heroes, if not used by the evil teams.
* MagicKnight: Several members of this archetype have solid offenses on both the physical and special sides.
* PreciousPuppy: One of the contributing factors to this archetype's popularity is the adorable first stages.
* RightHandAttackDog: Houndour and Houndoom are used by multiple evil teams, and the other members of this archetype are commonly used by gym leaders and Elite Four members.

[[folder:The Two-Stage Ursine]]
!!The Two-Stage Ursine
Small, adorable bear cub-like Pokémon evolve into big, ferocious adult bear Pokémon. Their stats are usually oriented toward the physical side.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Teddiursa line[[note]]before gaining a third stage in ''Legends: Arceus''[[/note]], Cubchoo line, Pancham line, Stufful line
-> '''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Munchlax line[[note]]Munchlax wasn't introduced until well after its evolved form, and both only vaguely resemble bears.[[/note]], Kubfu line[[note]]Its second stage is a Legendary Pokémon with two different forms.[[/note]]

* BareFistedMonk: The Pancham and Stufful lines are half-Fighting-type. Ursaring, Beartic, and Snorlax can learn a variety of Fighting-type moves. Kubfu starts out as a pure Fighting-type, but gains either a secondary Water or Dark typing as Urshifu.
* BearsAreBadNews: They're adorable as babies, but intimidating and powerful as adults.
* KryptoniteFactor: All of them share a weakness to Fighting-type moves, the only exception being the Kubfu line, which itself can gain a weakness to Fighting-type moves if it evolves into Single Strike Style Urshifu.
* MagicallyIneptFighter: They've got high Attack and Defense stats, with paltry Special Attack stats.
* MightyGlacier: They tend to be slow and bulky, with strong Attack stats.
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: The pre-evolutions are small, playful and cute. Not so much when they grow up (aside from Snorlax and Bewear).

[[folder:The Two-Stage Equine]]
!!The Two-Stage Equine
Cute ponies that evolve into powerful steeds. They tend to focus on speed and attack power at the cost of other stats.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Ponyta line, Blitzle line, Mudbray line, Galarian Ponyta line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Skiddo line[[note]]Based on a goat, rather than a horse.[[/note]]

* BossBattle: If not a Gym Leader's SignatureMon, they're NumberTwo on a Gym Leader's lineup.
* CoolHorse: Most serve as mounts to their trainers, and to the player character when applicable.
* GlassCannon: Usually they have high striking power but low defenses overall. Mudsdale averts this by becoming a physical MightyGlacier whose Defense rises as it takes damage.
* MagicallyIneptFighter: They focus on high Attack and ramming [[{{Pun}} horsepower,]] but with little magic or Special Attack stats.
* ZebrasAreJustStripedHorses: Averted. Though Zebstrika might be framed as an electric Rapidash equivalent, it can't learn [[SecretArt High Horsepower]] since [[ExactlyWhatItSaysOnTheTin zebras aren't horses.]]

[[folder:The Two-Stage Crustacean]]
!!The Two-Stage Crustacean
Two-stage crustacean-like Pokémon that can be found using a fishing rod (at least a Good Rod if it exists in the region). They have a low speed stat but high offensive power and share the SecretArt Crabhammer.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Krabby line, Corphish line, Clauncher line
-> '''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Dwebble line[[note]]Lacks a [[MakingASplash Water-typing]] and cannot learn [[SecretArt Crabhammer]].[[/note]], Crabrawler line[[note]]Lacks a [[MakingASplash Water-typing]].[[/note]], Klawf[[note]]Lacks an evolved form and [[MakingASplash Water-typing]].[[/note]]

* ArmoredButFrail: Most of the Pokémon under this archetype tend to have relatively low HP, but high physical Defense. The only exception is Crabominable.
* GiantEnemyCrab: They are certainly larger than the creatures they are based on, especially Gigantamax Kingler.
* MakingASplash: As they are often found fishing in water, they can learn Water type moves.
* MightyGlacier: Usually not extremely fast, but they hit hard and have high Defense to make up for it.
* PowerPincers: Typical for a crustacean-like creature.
* SecretArt: Crabhammer, a move used by Pokémon with pincers.

[[folder:The Two-Stage Fish]]
!!The Two-Stage Fish
Two-stage, fish-like Pokémon that can only be found in water. This is particularly the case in the mid-game once the player is able to Surf or use fishing rods.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Goldeen line, Carvanha line, Finneon line, Skrelp line, Arrokuda line, White-Striped Basculin line, Hisuian Qwilfish line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Remoraid line[[note]]Its evolution into Octillery makes it less of a fish.[[/note]], Red/Blue-Striped Basculin[[note]]It's the common fish of Gen V, but is only a single-stage Pokémon. However, its Hisuian variant was given an evolution in Gen VIII.[[/note]], Wiglett line[[note]]Based on fish and is two-stage, but Wiglett can be found much earlier than the other examples due to being found on coasts rather than in the water.[[/note]], Finizen line[[note]]Two-stage, found in the water, but based on dolphins, which are mammals.[[/note]]

* ComMons: Given that they're usually the common fish of their generation found in water, it's easy to come across them on the routes they were placed in.
* FlyingSeafoodSpecial: Due to most battles taking place on land, you can count on them just floating off the ground as if they were swimming.
* MakingASplash: Being Water-types that can only be found in water, they're primarily based on different kinds of fish, and of course come with Water-type attacks.

[[folder:The Two-Stage Bat]]
!!The Two-Stage Bat
Two-Stage Pokémon that have characteristics based on bats. They're usually found in caves, and tend to have the Flying-typing given that they're winged creatures.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Zubat line[[note]]Gained a second evolution in Gen II[[/note]], Gligar line, Woobat line, Noibat line

* BatOutOfHell: They tend to look quite vicious by their final evolution; the only exception is Swoobat.
* BloodsuckingBats: Both the Zubat line and the Noibat line can learn Leech Life.
* BlowYouAway: They're all part Flying, and can learn a plethora of different Flying moves.
* ComMons: The Zubat and Woobat lines in particular are quite common to run into when it comes to cave encounters. Zubat even achieved BatScare level meme status in Gen I due to how often you run into them in Mt. Moon (you still don't have access to Repels at this point).

[[folder:The Two-Stage Arachnid]]
!!The Two-Stage Arachnid
Two-Stage Pokémon that have characteristics based on spiders. They tend to have the Bug-typing.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Spinarak line, Joltik line, Dewpider line, Tarountula line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Skorupi line[[note]]It's a two-stage arachnid but is based on scorpions rather than spiders, and it loses its Bug-typing when it evolves.[[/note]]

* AllWebbedUp: They tend to learn unique moves that are associated with spiders, such as Spider Web and Sticky Web.
* BigCreepyCrawlies: They're all part Bug-types, and are based on different types of spiders.
* ComMons: They're all usually quite common to find in certain areas compared to other Pokémon encounters.
* CrutchCharacter: ZigZagged. Some, like Spinarak and Tarountula, are designed to be most effective early-game, then fall off later. Others, such as Joltik and Dewpider, are found later in the game and have more powerful evolved forms which can stand up to late-game foes.
* FourLeggedInsect: Despite being based on spiders, none of the forms of the Spinarak, Joltik, or Dewpider lines have eight legs. Tarountula and its evolution Spidops avert this, being the first Pokémon of the archetype to have eight legs.
* FriendlyNeighborhoodSpider: They fulfill this trope mostly in their cuter first forms, but even in their larger, more imposing second forms, they can still be very friendly and affectionate to their trainers.
* GiantSpider: What each of these lines eventually evolve into.
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: Their first stage form are small and a lot cuter compared to their more scary and imposing looking evolved GiantSpider forms.

[[folder:The Two-Stage Mollusk]]
!!The Two-Stage Mollusk
Two-stage Pokémon that are based on various of mollusks, such as bivalves, cephalopods, and gastropods. Often Water-types, but sometimes not. They tend to have low Speed but high Defense.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Shellder line, Omanyte line, Slugma line, Shellos line, Shelmet line, Clobbopus line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Remoraid line, Clamperl line[[note]]Both are only mollusks in one stage.[[/note]]

* DishingOutDirt: Magcargo and the Omanyte lines are part Rock-type, while the Shellos line is part Ground-type.
* HealThyself: Many of them can learn a healing move, such as Recover or Aqua Ring.
* MakingASplash: They are often Water-types. The Shelmet and Clobbopus lines are pure Bug and Fighting-types respectively but are known to learn Water-type moves. Averted with the Fire-types Slugma and Magcargo.
* MightyGlacier: Speed is their lowest base stat, while their other stats often range from decent to high. The one exception is Accelgor, which is a FragileSpeedster.
* StoneWall: The ones based on shelled mollusks, such as Magcargo, Shelmet, Clamperl, and the Shellder and Omanyte lines, all have Defense as their best stat.

[[folder:The Two-Stage Primate]]
!!The Two-Stage Primate
Two-stage Pokémon that have characteristics based on monkeys and apes. They usually have high Attack or Special Attack, and are an overall mixed bag when it comes to the type chart.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Mankey line[[note]]Gains a second evolution in Gen IX[[/note]], Aipom line, Meditite line, The Elemental Monkey Trio (Pansage line, Pansear line, Panpour line), Darumaka line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Oranguru and Passimian[[note]]Instead of being an evolution line, they're an Unrelated Related Duo as two one-stage ape Pokémon.[[/note]], Shroodle line[[note]]Fits more into the Venomous Grunt archetype. While the second stage ''is'' based on a primate, the first stage likely isn't, but is a close relative.[[/note]]

* CrutchCharacter: In some cases, these Pokémon can be caught early to help with rounding out your team, but are outclassed by later foes. Particularly, the Mankey line (prior to Gen IX) and Elemental Monkeys.
* GlassCannon: Their Attack or Special Attack tend to be higher than their Defenses. In some cases ''a lot'' higher.
* SillySimian: These Pokémon all have some sort of characteristic based on monkeys or apes, and tend to be quite friendly. Some of them are [[ManiacMonkeys more vicious]], however.

[[folder:The Two-Stage Yeti]]
!!The Two-Stage Yeti
Two-stage Pokémon that have characteristics based on the mythological Yeti (Abominable Snowman) creature that live in the cold mountains. They tend to have the Ice-typing.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Snover line, Crabrawler line, Galarian Darumaka line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Cetoddle line[[note]]While they do live on mountains, are mammals, have two stages, and have the ice type, they lack characteristics of the yeti and are based on a land whale.[[/note]]

* BigfootSasquatchAndYeti: The Snover line, Crabominable, and Galarian Darumaka line have features to them based on the mountainous Yeti.
* AnIcePerson: Other than Crabominable's pre-evolution, they all share the Ice-type given that Yeti are associated with the cold. They are also capable of learning a plethora of Ice moves.
* MightyGlacier: Since they're based on the physically imposing Yeti, they tend to have high Attack compared to their really low speed. The Galarian Darumaka line has the highest Speed, and is at a rather respectable level, but is still nowhere near its massive Attack stat.

[[folder:The Two-Stage Serpent]]
Two-stage Pokémon that have serpent-like characteristics. The land-based serpents tend to be based on snakes while those associated with water are sea serpents.
->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Ekans line, Onix line, Magikarp line, Dunsparce line, Feebas line, Silicobra line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Dratini line[[note]]Along with having a second evolution, the line starts off as a serpent, but ends as a dragon.[[/note]], Seviper[[note]]Only has one stage.[[/note]]

* ComMons: Many of these Pokémon tend to be a common encounter on the routes they're found on. Though in some generations, Onix and Dunsparce are usually the rare encounter of certain areas. Feebas was also quite rare early on in Gens III and IV due to the "only appears on certain water tiles" mechanic, but it becomes much easier to find from Gen V onward after said mechanic is done away with.
* MakingASplash: The sea serpent Pokémon are associated with water, and tend to learn Water-type moves.
* SeaSerpents: Magikarp and Feebas are fish that evolve into powerful sea serpent-like Pokémon. The Dratini-line is also this, but turns into a dragon in its final stage.
* SnakesAreSexy: Milotic and the Dratini-line (Dragonair in particular) make for some elegant looking Pokémon. And if the serpent starter Snivy-line is included, Serperior just oozes elegance.
* SnakesAreSinister: The land-based snakes, such as the Arbok, Steelix, and Seviper are quite intimidating. Gyarados does so as well for the sea serpents.

[[folder:The Poison-Type Animal]]
!!The Poison-Type Animal
Two-stage primary Poison-type Pokémon that are based on animals with a toxic or chemical defense. In most games, these serve as the Pokémon of choice for members of the various villainous teams. Unlike [[RidiculouslyCuteCritter most first-stage Pokémon]], they tend to be [[CreepyCute somewhat creepy, sinister, or grotesque in their design]] [[UglyCute even in their "cuter" unevolved forms]].

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Ekans line, Zubat line[[note]]Gained a second evolution in Gen II[[/note]], Stunky line, Skorupi line, Croagunk line, Mareanie line, Salandit line, Shroodle line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Skrelp line[[note]]Its Poison typing doesn't derive from the defenses of the animal it's based on.[[/note]], Paldean Wooper line[[note]]Less unsettling in design than most Poison-types, being more of a RidiculouslyCuteCritter even after it evolves.[[/note]]

* CombatPragmatist: Most of them can learn one or more Dark-type moves, with Drapion and the Stunky line being actual Dark-types.
* DarkIsNotEvil: Most of them look at least a bit menacing, and some are actual Dark-types, so it shouldn't come as a shock that the antagonists use them. However, despite their appearance, they're no more inherently evil than other Pokémon, and they can be caught and used by the player.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: Ekans and Zubat can be [[ComMons caught much earlier]] in their debut game than most other examples.
* MakingASplash: Skrelp and the Mareanie line are part Water-type, giving them access to Water-type moves.
* PoisonIsEvil: They're not evil themselves, but the villains often use them because of their type.
* PoisonousPerson: They all have Poison as their primary type, though most of them have a secondary type that can be anything.
* TechnicolorToxin: Many of them are purple or have some purple on their bodies to show they are Poison-types.

[[folder:The Aquatic Magikarp Power]]
!!The Aquatic Magikarp Power
Water-type Pokémon that share a common quirk: they start out very weak, but can achieve high stats. The way they do this is dependent on the species: Magikarp itself must reach Level 20, but the others require a special gimmick to evolve and/or achieve their special powerful forms.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Magikarp line, Feebas line, Wishiwashi, Finizen line
-> '''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Basculin line[[note]]A relatively weak Water-type with a powerful evolution, but it was only a single unimpressive stage when it was introduced. It’s also stronger than the other members of this archetype in its first form.[[/note]], Wimpod line[[note]]A Bug/Water MagikarpPower Pokémon line that's more land based due to its primary Bug-typing. Wimpod is quite pathetic in its first form, but it becomes a powerhouse after evolving into Golisopod.[[/note]]

* MagikarpPower: Not only does this archetype contain the TropeNamer, but it's defined by its members starting out very weak and having some sort of unique gimmick to reach high levels of power.
** Magikarp line: Simply reach Level 20.
** Feebas line: Level up with a maxed-out Beauty stat in the relevant games, or (starting with Generation V) trade with a Prism Scale.
** Wishiwashi: Reach Level 20, and keep its HP above 25%.
** Finizen line: Reach Level 38 in multiplayer, then switch it out and back in.
* MakingASplash: Most members of the archetype are pure Water-type; the one exception, Gyarados, is Water/Flying.
* NecessaryDrawback: The ability-based members of the archetype have base stats that surpass Pseudo-Legendaries (totaling above 600) but have a catch to them that prevents their SuperMode from being superior to a normal evolution.
** School Form Wishiwashi is both [[MightyGlacier extremely slow]] and [[ArmoredButFrail has very low HP]]. Both of these are coupled with its school breaking when its HP falls below 25%.
** Palafin must be [[SecretIdentityChangeTrick switched out of battle and switched back in]], therefore potentially exposing itself to danger on the latter stipulation.
* SeaSerpent: Both Magikarp and Feebas evolve into massive, powerful snakelike beasts.
* SocializationBonus: Feebas can evolve in games without Contest Stats (and sometimes even then) by trading with a Prism Scale. Finizen has a more atypical variant where it evolves by reaching a certain level in multiplayer.
* SuperMode: Wishiwashi achieves its power not through evolution, but through its ability once it reaches Level 20. Finizen on the other hand composites the Feebas and Wishiwashi methods by evolving through a SocializationBonus, then achieving its own special form through its ability.

[[folder:The Aquatic Bird]]
!!The Aquatic Bird
Bird-like Pokémon that are usually found flying above or near areas of water. They tend to be the combination of the Water and Flying-type.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Wingull line, Ducklett line, Cramorant
-> '''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Magikarp line[[note]]A pure-Water fish that evolves into the Water/Flying Gyarados. Gyarados tends to be associated with living underwater, but it has been depicted sometimes to be able to fly.[[/note]], Mantyke line[[note]]Has the Water/Flying typing, but is a Pokémon line based on a manta ray rather than a bird.[[/note]], Frillish line[[note]]Performs a similar role as a part Water-type that's usually found floating above areas of water, but is part-Ghost instead of part-Flying.[[/note]], Wattrel line[[note]]They're Flying-types based off of sea-faring birds and are commonly found in coastal areas, but they're part Electric-type rather than part Water-type.[[/note]]

* BlowYouAway: They're part-Flying, and can learn a variety of Flying-type moves.
* ComMons: Other than Cramorant, they're usually quite easy to find on the Routes they were placed in. The Mantyke line is rare in earlier generations, but becomes easier to find in later ones.
* EarlyInstallmentWeirdness: The Magikarp and Mantine lines were more associated with living underwater before the Wingull line started the gimmick of having Pokémon that float above water.
* KryptoniteFactor: Given the Water/Flying combination, they have a massive weakness to Electric-types.
* MakingASplash: They're all part-Water, live in or near water, and can learn a large variety of Water-type moves.

!The Miscellaneous Archetypes
While animal-inspired monsters are most common, Pokémon can be based on anything, from humanoid beings to inanimate objects to more abstract concepts, as you'll discover when you encounter them on your adventure. Here, the archetypes are a bit looser, but there are still some identifiable trends.

[[folder:The Three-Stage Rock-type]]
!!The Three-Stage Rock-type
A Rock-type Pokémon that can be found in an early cave such as Mt. Moon or Granite Cave. Because of their three-stage evolution and high physical-oriented stats, they can seem like powerful team members to keep throughout the game. However, due to the Rock type's high amount of weaknesses and their special-oriented flaws, they tend to be hard-to-use at best from mid-game and on.

->'''Pokémon of this archetype:''' Geodude line, Aron line, Roggenrola line, Rolycoly line, Nacli line
->'''Pokémon that only have elements of this archetype:''' Rhyhorn line[[note]]The final stage wasn't introduced until well after its previous two stages, and wasn't as significant an upgrade from them as that of true Pokémon of this archetype.[[/note]]