Unveiling the Surprising Competitive History of Normal

Unveiling the Surprising Competitive History of Normal

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to the Normal Type
2. The Rise of Normal in Generation 1
   1. Normal in Generation 1 OU
   2. The Big Three: Tauros, Snorlax, and Chansey
3. Normal Types in Generation 2
   1. Snorlax Dominates Generation 2 OU
   2. The Introduction of Blissey
4. Normal Types in Generation 3
   1. Changes in the Meta with Generation 3
   2. The Rise of Normal/Flying Staraptor
   3. Snorlax and Chansey Continue to Shine
5. Normal Types in Generation 4
   1. The Physical/Special Split and its Impact on Normal Types
   2. Snorlax and Togekiss Make Waves in Generation 4 UU
6. Normal Types in Generation 5
   1. Normal Types Struggle in Generation 5 OU
   2. The Rise of Skill Link Cinccino
7. Normal Types in Generation 6
   1. Mega Kangaskhan Dominates Generation 6 OU
   2. Porygon-Z's Ability Abuse
8. Normal Types in Generation 7
   1. The Impact of Z-Moves on Normal Types
   2. Porygon-Z and Tapu Koko's Dominance
9. Normal Types in Generation 8
   1. The Dexit Controversy and its Effect on Normal Types
   2. The Rise of Teravolt and Gorilla Tactics
10. The Future of Normal Types

The Evolution of Normal Types in Pokemon

The Rise of Normal in Generation 1

In the world of Pokémon, the Normal type is often seen as the most mediocre of all types. It is neither strong nor weak against any other type, making it a safe choice for trainers looking for versatility. While Normal may not excel in any particular area, it also lacks any significant weaknesses. It could be argued that Normal is the worst type offensively, as it is not super effective against any other type. However, defensively, Normal is immune to Ghost-type moves, which was particularly advantageous in the early generations of the game.

In Generation 1, Normal was the Second best type in the game, just behind Psychic. Normal types had a wide array of coverage moves and were able to withstand a variety of attacks. The three best Pokémon in OU (Overused) were all Normal types: Tauros, Snorlax, and Chansey. Tauros, with its base 100 Attack and base 110 Speed, was a powerhouse in Late Game Revenge. Snorlax, with its base 160 HP and high Defenses, served as a special wall and could hit hard with its base 110 Attack. Chansey, with its base 250 HP and good Special Defense, was a fantastic wall that could take special attacks all day.

Normal Types in Generation 2

In Generation 2, the introduction of abilities and the physical/special split changed the dynamics of battles. However, Normal types still had a significant presence in the meta. Snorlax continued to dominate in OU with its high HP and Special Defense, allowing it to tank hits from powerful special attackers such as Mewtwo and Lugia. It was revered as one of the best Pokémon in the game.

Another standout Normal type in Generation 2 was Blissey, the evolution of Chansey. Blissey boasted even higher HP stats, making it an excellent special wall. Its ability, Natural Cure, allowed it to switch out and heal status conditions, making it a valuable asset on stall teams.

Normal Types in Generation 3

Generation 3 brought about several changes that affected the viability of Normal types. Abilities such as Moody allowed Pokémon like Smeargle to disrupt opponents and boost their own stats. Snorlax remained a force to be reckoned with, utilizing moves like Belly Drum and Hyper Beam to deal massive damage.

Additionally, Latias and Latios were introduced as Normal/Dragon type Pokémon, providing new options for trainers looking to utilize the versatility of Normal types. While Normal types still had their advantages, the introduction of new abilities and moves in Generation 3 diversified the meta.

Normal Types in Generation 4

The physical/special split in Generation 4 played a significant role in shaping the viability of Normal types. Moves such as Return and Frustration, which were previously among the strongest physical Normal moves, became less prominent due to the lack of Mega Evolutions and Z-Moves in the game. Nonetheless, Normal types like Snorlax and Togekiss managed to make an impact in the UU (Underused) tier.

Snorlax remained a formidable wall, utilizing moves like Self-Destruct and Earthquake to deal massive damage to opponents. Togekiss, on the other HAND, gained Fairy typing and the ability Serene Grace, which increased the likelihood of secondary effects occurring. This made Togekiss a disruptive force in battles.

Normal Types in Generation 5

Generation 5 brought some challenges for Normal types, as the Fight type received a significant boost in power. This impacted the overall viability of Normal types, as they now had to contend with Pokémon that could resist or even deal super effective damage against them. However, Normal types managed to find their place in the metagame.

Cinccino, with its ability Skill Link, became a dominant force in battles. Skill Link ensured that multi-hit moves always hit their maximum number of times, allowing Cinccino to deal consistent damage. Its signature move, Tail Slap, hit up to five times in a row, making it especially dangerous.

Normal Types in Generation 6

Generation 6 introduced Mega Evolutions, boosting the power and viability of several Normal-type Pokémon. One standout was Mega Kangaskhan, which became a dominant presence in the OU tier. The ability Parental Bond allowed Kangaskhan to land a second attack after the first, making it an even more formidable physical attacker.

Porygon-Z also saw competitive play, taking AdVantage of abilities like Adaptability to deal double damage with its STAB moves. These additions in Generation 6 showcased the potential of Normal types and their ability to excel in battles.

Normal Types in Generation 7

Generation 7 introduced Z-Moves, which provided a new level of power and unpredictability for Normal types. Z-Moves allowed trainers to boost the power of any Normal-type move into a powerful breakneck blitz. This ability transformed normal moves into devastating attacks that could change the tide of battle.

Porygon-Z, with its diverse move pool and powerful special attacks, became a prominent threat. Its ability, Adaptability, further increased the power of its STAB moves, allowing it to deal massive damage. Tapu Koko, another Normal-type Pokémon, also dominated battles with its unique abilities and moves.

Normal Types in Generation 8

In Generation 8, Normal types faced some challenges due to the Dexit controversy. Several moves, such as Return and Frustration, were removed from the game. This impacted the move sets of Normal types, limiting their options for powerful physical attacks. Additionally, the introduction of Dynamax caused dynamic changes in battles, making it unpredictable and overcentralizing. Status moves like Max Guard provided protection, while moves like Max Airstream could boost a team's speed.

However, there were still standout Normal types in Generation 8. Pokemon like Rillaboom and Eternatus utilized the Normal type effectively, showcasing their strengths in battles. Despite the obstacles, Normal types continued to adapt and find success in battles.

The Evolution of Normal Types

Overall, the Normal type has evolved and adapted throughout the generations of Pokémon. From dominating the meta in Generation 1 to facing challenges in later generations, Normal types have showcased their versatility and resilience. With each new generation, they have found ways to excel in battles and make their mark on the Pokémon world. As the metagame continues to evolve, so too will the strategies and successes of Normal types.