Bug-typePokémonhave historically been perceived as one of the weaker Pokémon types. While there is a large variety of Bug types inPokémon Scarlett and Violet, they still have several weaknesses. Despite these odds, Bug types have a vast array of unique attacks and support moves. This list will dive into what moves are best to teach your creepy crawlers to help give them the edge in combat.
Related:Pokémon Scarlet & Violet: Best Bug-Type Pokémon, Ranked
Not all moves on this list can be learned by every Bug-type Pokémon, and some may be better suited for certain Pokémon and not others. This list will not feature unique moves such asAttack OrderorDefense Order,as they are exclusive to one Pokémon.
10Bug Buzz
Bug Buzz is on brand regarding its title, and it’s also a great move for several Pokémon. This move has 90 base power and has the chance of lowering the enemy’s Special Defense, which will, in turn, make this move stronger the next time it hits.
There aren’t many Special Bug-type moves, but Bug Buzz can benefit any Pokémon with an above-average Special Attack stat. Pokémon likeVolcarona, Frosmoth, andRabscacan deal the most damage with this attack, and they can learn it naturally via level-up.
Lunge is a formidable Physical attack as it possesses 80 base power, 100 accuracy, and a guaranteed chance of lowering the opponent Pokémon’s Attack stat. If used by a Bug-type Pokémon, this move will benefit from STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) and have a base power of 120.
While this attack is strong and useful, only a handful of Pokémon can learn it. With that in mind, the classic X-Scissor is a decent replacement, as it has the same base power and accuracy but lacks the effect of lowering the target’s Attack stat.
8Infestation
Infestation is theFire Spinof the Bug-type world and is equally effective. This move will inflict a measly amount of damage initially, but any foe caught by this attack cannot retreat or switch out from the battle.
Related:Pokemon Scarlet & Violet: Best Fairy-Type Pokemon, Ranked
This move is great to use when trying to catch a Pokémon with a low catch rate or to thwart an opponent from constantly switching out their Pokémon during battle. You can then safely bring a Pokémon into battle without fear of the opponent striking it down immediately.
7First Impression
First Impression is one of the most unique attacks in the Pokémon game. First off, it has an impressive 90 base power with 100 accuracy, and if that weren’t enough, it also has Priority, which allows the user to go first. This was the signature move of Golisopod.
While this is all exceptionally powerful, the drawback to this attack is that it can only be used on the first turn your Pokémon is in battle. While this may present some difficulties, this attack remains immensely powerful since it will always move before the opponent. If you want to use this move again in the same battle, switch the ‘mon out and bring it back into the fray.
6Leech Life
HP is one of the most vital stats in the game, but recovering HP isn’t easy to accomplish in battle without the help of Items. Luckily, Leech Life is a vital attack that deals 80 base damage and heals the user for up to half the damage dealt.
Adding STAB into the mix, this attack has 120 base power, meaning the more damage you deal, the more health is restored to your Pokémon. Leech Life will carry you throughout several Pokémon journeys, so don’t look past it when a Pokémon can learn it.
5Quiver Dance
Status moves are often overlooked by new Pokémon trainers and even some veterans, but this Bug-type move is worth the extra look. Status moves typically enhance one or two stats, but Quiver Dance enhances three at once.
Related:Pokémon Scarlet & Violet: New Pokémon With The Highest Stats
Increasing the Special Attack, Special Defense, and Speed of one Pokémon is incredibly handy since it leaves room for your Pokémon to have other type-covering attacks. This move was made for Pokémon like Lilligant and Vivillon, thanks to their high Special Attack stat.
4Pollen Puff
Pollen Puff is another unique attack that acts differently depending on who its target is. This Special Attack deals 90 base damage if targeting an enemy, but it will heal 50% of a target’s max HP if targeting a teammate.
This effect makes Pollen Puff extremely powerful in Double Battles, as you can choose to heal or damage, all with the same move. The only time this move fails to heal your comrade is if they have the ability Telepathy, as it will block the healing effects.
Megahorn has 120 base damage, making it the only Bug-type attack than has more than 100 base! Fortunately, unlike traditional moves that have that deal similarly high amounts of damage, this attack has almost no drawback.
Armed with 10 PP and 85 accuracy, this attack is far more reliable than the likes ofStone Edgeand Hydro Pump. While it may not haveasmuch coverage as those moves, this is a solid attack that can deal massive amounts of damage. This is a must-have attack for Samurott and Heracross.
2Sticky Web
Trap moves aren’t universal in most Pokémon battles,but when playing competitively, you must always be on the lookout. Sticky Web is one of those moves, and lowering the speed of all enemy Pokémon that enter the battle is extraordinarily useful.
Turn order is determined by a Pokémon’s Speed stat, so you will always have the advantage if your Pokémon can move before your opponent. Sticky Web can be destroyed if your foe uses Rapid Spin or Defog, but even if they use one of those moves, it forces them to waste a turn getting back on track.
U-Turn was one of the most popular moves when it was first released in the fourth generation of Pokémon. This move allows the user to attack the enemy first and then switch to another Pokémon from its party. When it comes to utility, this attack is one of the best.
Even though this is a Bug-type move, several non-Bug-type Pokémon, includingFire typesandWater types, are capable of learning it. Bug types will obviously benefit from STAB, but having this on one or even two of your Pokémon provides plenty of reach to quickly dish out some damage before switching out to another Pokémon.
