Pokémon as a franchise has developed a large fan base, and part of why that happened is because the large roster of Pokémon players can befriend and grow with offers such a variety of different types of creatures. One piece of that pie is the Ghost-types, which can frighten some trainers, while others feel as though it’s the type that speaks most to them. Ghost-types in the world of Pokémon come in many different shapes, sizes, and personalities. Let’s now look at the best Ghost-type Pokémon from every generation through Pokémon Sword & Shield.
8 Dragapult (Gen 8)
Dragapult is not only a neat combination of typings, its design feels unique and akin to what fans received in the earlier generations of games. Not only is it a phantasm-like reptile, but its head is reminiscent of a military fighter jet. As with most Dragon-types and pseudo-legendary Pokémon it comes with solid base stats, the highlights of those being its Speed and physical Attack. Thanks to its suite of possible Abilities and moveset it can build a reputation for being an annoying Pokémon to deal with rather quickly.
7 Decidueye (Gen 7)
Whenever a new generation of Pokémon games is revealed the starters become a huge point of contention among fans. Everyone is curious as to what the dual-typing of the final forms will be, or if they will even be dual-typed.
Decidueye being a Grass and Ghost-type isn’t only a win for the much-maligned Grass-type starters, but it shows a willingness by Game Freak to take risks. This ethereal archer owl packs a pretty solid punch and its Abilities boost its Grass-type moves while also protecting it from physical contact.
6 Trevenant (Gen 6)
The 6th generation of Pokémon games are lacking for a lot of reasons, and formidable Ghost-types is just another entry on the list. Trevenant isn’t a terrible Pokémon, but it’s not necessarily a creature who comes equipped with anything jaw-dropping or amazing. The two most glowing things about the Grass and Ghost dual-type are that its base form is adorably cute and its base Attack stat isn’t too shabby. Trevenant also happens to have a pretty unique shiny form that turns the tree completely white and makes the leaves a rich orange.
5 Chandelure (Gen 5)
Chandelure has really solid base stats that surprises most people as it’s often overlooked. The dual-typing of Ghost and Fire works out great and gives it access to a wide range of moves.
Chandelure has tremendous value outside of battle as well since one of its two possible abilities, Flame Body, accelerates the hatching of eggs when it sits in your party alongside them. This means that Pokémon fans who enjoy breeding will find Chandelure as a worthy addition, even if they never use it in a single Pokémon battle.
4 Rotom (Gen 4)
Who would have thought that when Rotom was introduced in the 4th generation of games that it would become a big part of the franchise moving forward? Ever since its introduction, this ghost with a knack for possession of technology has found itself at the forefront of Pokémon trainers’ journeys. It has injected itself as the primary mode of transportation, a cellular mobile device, and even the Pokédex. Trainers can change the typing of Rotom to fit the needs of their roster, which is quite invaluable.
3 Dusclops (Gen 3)
Everyone plays Pokémon games differently, and with that assemble teams to fit the needs they’re looking for. If you’re the type of trainer who loves to have a brick wall Pokémon that’s sole focus is defense, Dusclops is the Ghost-type’s representative for such a strategy. This thing is incredibly slow but makes up for it with incredible defensive base stats in both Special and physical Defense. Not only will it stop a powerhouse attacker in their tracks, but its Hidden Ability called Frisk allows its trainer to see what held item their opponent is holding.
2 Misdreavus (Gen 2)
Now, Misdreavus isn’t necessarily a glowing example of the Ghost-typing, but sadly it’s the only one native to the Johto region. You did read that right. The second generation of games, for all it does to set the golden standard for the franchise, did a poor job at bringing new life to Ghost-types.
Looking at the base stats for Misdreavus will leave you underwhelmed due to them being pretty lackluster. It’s not all negatives though, as Misdreavus comes with the ability Levitate, which allows it to not be targeted by Ground-type moves.
1 Gengar (Gen 1)
It’s hard to find a better Ghost-type Pokémon than Gengar, not only in the first generation of games but in the series as a whole. The bulbous demonic companion comes equipped with a solid set of moves and is a Special Attack glass cannon. A go-to move combination many people use with Gengar is having it put enemies to sleep with the move Hypnosis, then destroying their health bar with the move Dream Eater, which only works on sleeping Pokémon. Gengar’s only knock is that it must be acquired by trading your Haunter, and hopefully, your trade partner is trustworthy.
NEXT: Pokémon: The Best Dragon-Type Pokémon Of Every Generation, Ranked
