Pokemon Unite brings with it a brand-new way to play Pokemon, eschewing the normal catch-em-all RPG tropes for an action-focused MOBA experience. As such, the way Pokemon are categorized and implemented in the game is very different from what a seasoned Pokemon trainer might be familiar with. Take the All-Rounder type, a group of Pokemon who don't excel at offense or defense, but perform well enough in both to be used in either situation. The All-Rounder is a good choice for players dipping their toes into the MOBA ocean for the first time, and here we look at all four All-Rounders in the game so far.

Charizard

Charizard is the definition of a well-rounded Pokemon, holding its own on offense, defense, and in scoring. However, being an All-Rounder means the fiery Pokemon can only fly so high before getting burned, making him a liability in the later stages of a match. Our strategic recommendation would be to stay on the offensive early, gaining experience and upgrading to a Flamethrower/Fire Blast set before falling back and defending for the rest of the match. Fire Blast will keep opponents at bay thanks to its large area-of-effect, while Flamethrower can target approaching opponents trying to avoid Fire Blast. If you do prefer being on offense, however, Flare Blitz is a great special attack in one-on-one scenarios.

Role: All-Rounder

Style: Melee

Difficulty: Novice

Stats

Evolution levels: Charmander Start | Charmeleon at Lvl. 5 | Charizard at Lvl. 9

Special Moves

Garchomp

Garchomp may be an All-Rounder, but its moveset and skills make it one of the most efficient attackers in the game. Its area-of-effect attacks can cause damage to multiple opponents at once, even more so when the Dig/Earthquake combo is activated. Its high endurance allows it to absorb a good amount of damage, while its decent mobility should help it escape in most situations. Dragon Rush is a good way to exploit its passive skill Rough Skin, as while charging forward might leave Garchomp to counterattacks, the passive ability means all of those counters will damage the opponent too. Evolving all the way to Garchomp at Lvl. 10 will take time, so you may spend a decent part of each match on the defensive, but once the big dragon makes its entrance, charge forward and don't look back.

Role: All-Rounder

Style: Melee

Difficulty: Intermediate

Stats

Evolution levels: Gible Start | Gabite at Lvl. 6 | Garchomp at Lvl. 10

Special Moves

Lucario

Lucario is a Pokemon that should not be attempted until you're completely familiar with how Pokemon Unite works. Its moveset deals with extra setup and preparation, particularly with a move like Bone Rush that can be used to sneak up on unsuspecting opponents, so a full understanding of the arena and the flow of battle is recommended. That diligence will be rewarded though, as Lucario boasts some of the most potent attacks in the entire game. A well-placed Power-Up Punch/Bone Rush combo late in the game could turn the tide in your favor, particularly if used right after an Aura Cannon while Power-Up Punch is enhanced. On offense or defense, Lucario can save the game for you.

Role: All-Rounder

Style: Melee

Difficulty: Expert

Stats

Evolution levels: None

Special Moves

Machamp

Machamp is a damage machine, able to wreck through any amount of opponents and wild Pokemon that stand in his way. Its moveset allows him to buff basic attacks for big damage, while also increasing critical hit rate for some monumental damage. By pairing Dynamic Punch with Close Combat, every time you use a special move you become immune to hindrances like stun or knockback, meaning basic attacks will go unpunished for a few seconds. Its passive skill, Guts, powers Machamp up when afflicted by a status effect, so approaching it isn't safe even when it's burnt or poisoned. Machamp is an absolute powerhouse, so those who like dealing a lot of damage will have a lot of fun.

Role: All-Rounder

Style: Melee

Difficulty: Intermediate

Stats

Evolution levels: Machop Start | Machoke at Lvl. 5 | Machamp at Lvl. 9

Special Moves

Jason Fanelli on Google+

GameSpot may get a commission from retail offers.

Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email news@gamespot.com

Pokemon UNIT