Who are Your Favorite Evolution Line Pokémon in Generation IX?

Generation IX, also known as 'The Scarlet and Violet Era,' introduced several new and exciting Pokémon third-stage evolutions. Among them, I have a particular affection for Kingambit and Annihilape. These Pokémon not only continue the legacy of their predecessors but also bring innovative gameplay mechanics to the table.

Kingambit: The Supreme Overlord

Kingambit is a fascinating addition to the Dark-Steel type. It is the ultimate form of the Pawniard/Bisharp line, first introduced in Generation 5. To evolve your Bisharp into Kingambit, you must defeat three 'leader' Bisharps. These leader Bisharps are found surrounded by Pawniards, making them more challenging to defeat.

Kingambit's lore ties into this process, as each Bisharp takes over the army of Pawniards from the defeated Bisharp. Inside the Scarlet Pokédex, you'll find the following description:

Only a Bisharp that stands above all others in its vast army can evolve into Kingambit.

Evolution Line and Stats

The Kingambit evolution line includes:

Pawniard (Base 100 Attack, 50 Defense, 50 HP) Bisharp (Base 125 Attack, 60 Defense, 40 HP) Kingambit (Base 175 Attack, 120 Defense, 65 HP)

Kingambit boasts an extremely high base Attack stat, which is paired with decent physical Bulk. This makes it a formidable offensive Pokémon, especially when paired with its ability to take advantage of lowered stats from the opposition.

Abilities:

Defiant - When the opponent lowers any of Kingambit's stats, its Attack doubles. This is more advantageous in Doubles battles, but it ensures a continuous boost in Attack power. Supreme Overlord - Kingambit's Attack increases by 10 for each teammate that has been knocked out. This ability is especially useful in 6v6 Singles battles where multiple teammates can be knocked out.

Annihilape: The Unleashed Rage

Annihilape is another standout third-stage evolution, coming from the Fighting-Ghost type. This Pokémon is the final form of the Mankey/Primape line, introduced in Generation 1. The evolution line is designed to fit the "Angry Monkey" archetype:

Mankey (Base 75 Attack, 53 Defense, 38 Speed) Primape (Base 130 Attack, 63 Defense, 78 Speed) Annihilape (Base 145 Attack, 85 Defense, 78 Speed)

The Annihilape line is unique in its combination of the Fighting-Ghost types. Only Dark and Normal types resist Ghost attacks, while Fighting attacks hit them super effectively. The evolution line culminates in Annihilape, highlighting this powerful type combination.

Signature Move: Rage Fist

Annihilape is the only Pokémon that can use the highly damaging Rage Fist. This move starts with a base power of 50, but it increases by 50 points with each hit it takes, whether from an opponent or a teammate. This creates a snowball effect where Annihilape's Rage Fist can deal massive damage, especially if it is well-supported.

Abilities:

Vital Spirit - Ensures that Annihilape can never be put to sleep, symbolizing the enduring rage within it. Defiant - Same as Kingambit, if the opponent lowers Annihilape's stats, its Attack doubles.

The Power of Evolution Lines

Game Freak's decision to revisit and evolve older Pokémon lines is a stroke of genius. These third-stage evolutions not only provide new Pokémon but also incorporate unique design elements and gameplay mechanics that enhance the overall experience. Both Kingambit and Annihilape exemplify this innovation, making them favorites among many trainers.

In conclusion, the fascination with these Pokémon lies in their evolution lines and the intriguing abilities they bring to the game. Kingambit and Annihilape are prime examples of generation IX's evolutionary legacy, embodying the spirit of Pokémon's rich and evolving universe.