Fairy-type Pokémon are some of the newest and oldest in the entire franchise. This is a result of Fairy-type Pokémon first being introduced relatively late in Generation VI.
What is a Fairy-Type Pokémon?
Fairy-types range from Pokémon with retroactively changed types like early generation fan favorites Jigglypuff, Chansey, and Clefairy, to newer Legendary Pokémon like Xerneas and Zacian. Fairy-types excel in Special Defense, boasting the highest average Special Defense across all types.
Fairy-Type Pokémon Weaknesses
Fairy-type Pokémon are weak to just two types of moves, and they happen to be two pretty uncommon types in Poison and Steel-types. This means your Fairy-types should be able to safely switch in and out of most situations involving Special Attacking Pokémon, holding them off safely and effectively.
Fairy-Type Pokémon Strengths & Resistances
The Fairy-type Pokémon also boast numerous strengths and resistances, including one immunity to a type of move. Fairy-types deal super-effective damage to Fighting, Dragon, and Dark-type Pokémon, while resisting Fighting and Dark moves, and being completely immune to any type of Dragon attack. Additionally, Fairy-type attacks are resisted by Steel, Fire, and Poison-type Pokémon, but all three of those types are weak to Ground moves so if you are able to teach your Fairy-type Pokémon a move like Earthquake, it should be very hard to stop.
Best Counters for Fairy-Type Pokémon
Standout Pokémon to help deal with any troublesome Fairy-types on your playthroughs are Crobat and Metagross. These are two standout Pokémon from the Poison and Steel types respectively that are not Legendary so they are feasibly obtainable. Crobat boosts a wide move pool and is tanky enough to help safely pivot through your team to your heavy hitters, while Metagross will also be able to effectively wall any Fairy-type you come against, and can pack a good punch.