Tapu Bulu Raid Guide: A Comprehensive Strategy
Welcome, trainers! This detailed guide provides everything you need to conquer the Guardian Deity of Ula’ula Island, Tapu Bulu, in Pokémon raids.
Tapu Bulu, the Wood Guardian Pokémon, is a powerful Grass/Fairy-type Guardian Deity of the Alola region’s Ula’ula Island. As a Legendary Pokémon, it presents a significant challenge for trainers participating in Pokémon Sword and Shield or Pokémon Scarlet and Violet raids.
Known for its imposing stature and mastery over nature, Tapu Bulu commands the power of the forest. Its signature move, Grassy Surge, dramatically alters the battlefield, creating a terrain that favors Grass-type Pokémon and heals them each turn. Understanding this ability is crucial for formulating a successful raid strategy.
This guide will delve into the intricacies of battling Tapu Bulu, covering its abilities, phases, optimal team compositions, and effective strategies to ensure victory. Prepare yourself for a challenging, yet rewarding, encounter against this majestic Guardian Deity!
Understanding Tapu Bulu’s Typing & Abilities
Tapu Bulu’s dual Grass/Fairy typing dictates its strengths and weaknesses. It’s super effective against Water, Ground, Rock, and Dragon-type Pokémon, but vulnerable to Poison, Steel, Fire, Flying, and Ice attacks. Knowing these matchups is fundamental to building an effective raid team.
Its key ability, Grassy Surge, immediately sets the Grassy Terrain upon entering battle. This terrain boosts the power of Grass-type moves by 50% and heals Pokémon at the end of each turn. This significantly impacts battle dynamics, favoring Pokémon that can capitalize on the terrain or withstand its effects.
Tapu Bulu also possesses the ability Natural Cure, which removes status conditions when it switches out. This makes inflicting status ailments less reliable. Finally, be aware of its high Special Attack and Special Defense stats, demanding a balanced approach to raid preparation.
Phase 1: Initial Encounter & Terrain Control
The raid begins with Tapu Bulu immediately establishing Grassy Terrain via its Grassy Surge ability. This phase focuses on dealing consistent damage while mitigating the healing effect of the terrain. Prioritize Pokémon with moves that bypass the terrain boost or resist Grass-type attacks.
Tapu Bulu will primarily use moves like Petal Blizzard, Energy Ball, and occasionally Dazzling Gleam. Be prepared for spread damage and consider Pokémon with high HP and Special Defense. Focus fire is crucial; coordinating attacks to maximize damage output is key to quickly transitioning to the next phase.
Don’t neglect protecting against potential stat drops. While less frequent in this phase, Tapu Bulu can utilize moves that lower your Pokémon’s stats. Maintaining offensive pressure and controlling the terrain’s influence are the primary objectives.
Terrain Manipulation ౼ Grassy Surge Explained
Tapu Bulu’s signature ability, Grassy Surge, is central to understanding this raid. Upon entering battle, it instantly sets Grassy Terrain for five turns. This terrain has several key effects: it boosts the power of Grass-type moves by 50%, and crucially, it restores a portion of HP to all Pokémon on the field each turn.
This continuous healing makes simply chipping away at Tapu Bulu’s HP ineffective. You must consistently out-damage the terrain’s healing effect to make progress. Pokémon with moves that ignore type resistances, or those with powerful, non-Grass-type attacks, are invaluable.
Understanding this mechanic is paramount. Ignoring Grassy Surge will prolong the battle significantly. Strategic team building and move selection must account for this constant regeneration.
Best Pokémon for Phase 1 (Offensive & Defensive)
For offensive pressure in Phase 1, consider Pokémon like Landorus-Therian (Ground/Flying) with Earthquake, or Garchomp (Dragon/Ground) boasting a powerful Ground and Dragon STAB combination. Lucario (Fighting/Steel) can also excel with Close Combat. These Pokémon exploit Tapu Bulu’s weaknesses.
Defensively, Blissey (Normal) remains a stalwart tank, absorbing special attacks. Amoonguss (Grass/Poison) provides support with Spore and Rage Powder, redirecting attacks. Goodra (Dragon) offers decent bulk and Dragon-type resistance.
Prioritize Pokémon with high Attack or Special Attack, and moves that bypass Grassy Terrain’s healing. Remember to balance offensive and defensive capabilities for sustained success. Team synergy is key!
Phase 2: Horn Drill & Increased Aggression
Entering Phase 2, Tapu Bulu’s aggression significantly escalates, and it introduces its signature move: Horn Drill. This powerful attack ignores Protect and can instantly KO Pokémon below a certain HP threshold, making it incredibly dangerous. Expect a noticeable increase in attack frequency and overall damage output.
Tapu Bulu will also begin utilizing its Grassy Surge ability more strategically, maintaining the terrain for extended periods to maximize healing. Be prepared for a more relentless assault, demanding quicker reactions and more precise timing with healing and shielding.
Focus on minimizing exposure to Horn Drill and maintaining consistent damage output. Prioritize Pokémon with high HP and defensive stats during this phase.
Recognizing the Horn Drill Attack
Identifying Horn Drill is crucial for survival in Phase 2. Tapu Bulu telegraphs this attack with a distinct animation: it lowers its head and charges forward with a glowing horn. This charge-up period is relatively short, demanding constant vigilance. Pay close attention to the visual cues – a bright, focused energy gathers around its horn just before execution.
The attack itself is visually striking, featuring a rapid, piercing thrust. Unlike most attacks, Horn Drill cannot be blocked by Protect. Recognizing this is paramount; relying on Protect during this phase is a guaranteed knockout for vulnerable Pokémon.
Sound cues also accompany the attack, a sharp, drilling noise that signals its imminent impact. Mastering visual and auditory recognition will significantly improve your raid success.
Countering Horn Drill ౼ Strategies & Items
Mitigating Horn Drill’s devastating impact requires proactive strategies. Since Protect fails, focus on avoiding the attack entirely. Swiftly switching to a Pokémon with high Speed and utilizing moves like U-Turn or Volt Switch can create distance. Prioritize Pokémon with the ability to survive a direct hit, such as those with substantial HP and Defense.
Items are key! Focus Sash guarantees survival from one hit, providing a crucial buffer against Horn Drill. Alternatively, a well-timed Substitute can absorb the attack, though it requires careful timing and prediction. Consider using Pokémon with abilities like Sturdy, which also prevents one-hit knockouts.
Team coordination is vital; communicate when Tapu Bulu is charging Horn Drill to ensure everyone is prepared to switch or utilize defensive maneuvers.
Phase 3: The Root Prison & Limited Mobility
Entering Phase 3, Tapu Bulu encases the battlefield in massive roots, severely restricting movement. Only Pokémon with the ability Levitate or those using moves like Fly or Bounce can freely navigate this terrain. This phase demands strategic positioning and a shift in focus towards ranged attacks.
The roots aren’t impenetrable; sustained damage will break them, but this takes time and coordinated effort. Prioritize Pokémon capable of dealing consistent damage from a distance, such as special attackers. Be mindful of the limited space and avoid clustering, as area-of-effect attacks can become incredibly dangerous.
Communication is paramount; call out root locations and coordinate attacks to maximize efficiency and minimize risk within the confined arena.
Navigating the Root Prison ౼ Positioning is Key
Within the root-filled arena, strategic positioning is absolutely crucial for survival and success. Prioritize maintaining distance from Tapu Bulu, utilizing the limited open spaces to your advantage. Pokémon without Levitate should focus on quickly breaking roots directly in front of them to create escape routes.
Avoid bottlenecks – areas where roots converge – as these become prime targets for Tapu Bulu’s powerful attacks. Spread out your team to minimize the impact of area-of-effect moves. If using Pokémon capable of flight, constantly reposition to maintain optimal attack angles and avoid being grounded by unexpected attacks.
Constant awareness of the root layout and Tapu Bulu’s movements is vital for effective navigation and sustained damage output.
Breaking Free ⎼ Damage Focus & Team Coordination
Escaping the Root Prison demands concentrated damage output directed at the imprisoning roots. Designate specific team members to focus solely on root destruction, while others continue attacking Tapu Bulu to maintain pressure. Prioritize Pokémon with high Attack stats and moves effective against Grass-type Pokémon.
Synchronized attacks are paramount; coordinating powerful moves simultaneously significantly accelerates the root-breaking process. Communicate clearly about target prioritization – roots obstructing movement take precedence. Utilize support moves like Swords Dance or Shell Bell to boost damage output and sustain your damage dealers.
Remember, a swift escape minimizes exposure to Tapu Bulu’s relentless assault, increasing your team’s overall survivability.
Pokémon Team Composition ౼ General Guidelines
Building a successful raid team against Tapu Bulu requires a balanced approach, prioritizing type effectiveness and role coverage. Include at least two to three strong Fairy, Poison, Flying, Fire, or Ice-type attackers to exploit its weaknesses. A dedicated support Pokémon with moves like Reflect, Light Screen, or Helping Hand is invaluable for bolstering defenses and amplifying damage.
Consider a bulky Water or Ground-type to resist Tapu Bulu’s Wood Hammer and other potential attacks. Ensure your team possesses sufficient healing capabilities, with access to moves like Heal Pulse or items like Potions and Revives. Don’t neglect speed control; Pokémon with moves like Icy Wind or Thunder Wave can disrupt Tapu Bulu’s offensive rhythm.
Top Tier Pokémon Choices (Detailed Breakdown)
Xerneas reigns supreme with Geomancy-boosted Fairy attacks, delivering devastating damage. Zacian (Crowned Sword) is another powerhouse, utilizing Behemoth Blade for immense Steel and Fairy-type output. Mewtwo, with its Psychic and Fairy-type coverage, offers versatility and high Special Attack.
Tapu Koko provides excellent speed and Electric-type damage, while Landorus-Therian offers Ground and Flying-type coverage, resisting Wood Hammer. Volcarona, with its Quiver Dance boosts and Fire-type attacks, can sweep effectively. For support, Amoonguss excels with Spore and Rage Powder, redirecting attacks and inducing sleep. Grimmsnarl provides Prankster-boosted support moves like Reflect and Light Screen.
Recommended Movesets for Key Pokémon
Xerneas: Geomancy, Moonblast, Dazzling Gleam, Protect. Maximize Geomancy turns for incredible Fairy damage. Zacian (Crowned Sword): Behemoth Blade, Play Rough, Close Combat, Protect. Focus on consistent, high-damage output. Mewtwo: Psystrike, Moonblast, Shadow Ball, Protect. Offers versatile coverage and strong special attacks.
Tapu Koko: Thunderbolt, Dazzling Gleam, Volt Switch, Protect. Utilize speed and Electric-type damage. Landorus-Therian: Earthquake, U-Turn, Stone Edge, Protect. Provides Ground and Flying coverage. Volcarona: Quiver Dance, Fiery Dance, Bug Buzz, Protect. Boost stats and unleash powerful attacks. Amoonguss: Spore, Rage Powder, Clear Smog, Protect. Support with status and redirection.
Item Selection & Raid Preparation
Held Items are crucial! Life Orb boosts damage output, but reduces HP. Choice Specs dramatically increase Special Attack, locking you into one move. Assault Vest enhances Special Defense, ideal for special attackers. Leftovers provide passive HP recovery throughout the raid. Focus Sash guarantees survival from one hit, a lifesaver against Horn Drill.
Potions (Max Potions are best) restore significant HP. Revives bring fainted Pokémon back into battle. Berries offer strategic advantages: Sitrus Berries restore HP, Lum Berries cure status conditions, and Wiki Berries reduce super-effective damage. Don’t forget X Attack and X Defense to temporarily boost stats! Thorough preparation maximizes your chances of success against Tapu Bulu.
Essential Held Items for Raid Battles
Life Orb is a powerhouse, increasing damage by 30% at the cost of 10% HP per attack – excellent for swift victories. Choice Specs boost Special Attack by 50%, locking the Pokémon into its first move, perfect for special sweepers. Assault Vest raises Special Defense by 50%, making Pokémon more resilient against Tapu Bulu’s special attacks.
Leftovers offer consistent HP recovery each turn, providing sustainability. Focus Sash ensures survival from a one-hit knockout, invaluable against unpredictable attacks like Horn Drill. Consider Weakness Policy; it boosts Attack and Special Attack when hit by a super-effective move. Strategically selecting held items significantly impacts your team’s performance and raid success.
Potions, Revives & Berries ౼ Stocking Up
Max Potions are crucial for quickly restoring HP during intense phases, minimizing downtime. Max Revives are essential for bringing fainted Pokémon back into the fight, preventing team wipes. Don’t underestimate the power of berries! Sitrus Berries provide a gradual HP recovery, while Lum Berries cure status conditions like burns or paralysis.
Wiki Berries can be lifesavers, reducing the damage from super-effective attacks. Bring a generous supply of each; a raid can deplete your resources quickly. Prioritize items based on your team’s weaknesses and playstyle. Having ample healing and revival items dramatically increases your chances of success against Tapu Bulu’s relentless assault.
Raid Strategies ౼ Solo vs. Group Play
Solo raids demand a highly optimized team, focusing on maximizing damage output and survivability; Careful Pokémon selection, strategic item usage, and precise timing are paramount. Expect a lengthy battle requiring consistent performance. Group raids offer a more forgiving experience, allowing for diverse team compositions and shared responsibility.
Effective communication is key in group play – coordinating attacks, calling out phases, and sharing item support. Designate roles (damage dealers, support, tanks) to streamline the battle. While soloing tests individual skill, group raids emphasize teamwork and synergy. Both approaches are viable, but require distinct strategies for conquering Tapu Bulu.
Solo Raid Tactics ౼ Maximizing Efficiency
Soloing Tapu Bulu requires meticulous planning and execution. Prioritize Pokémon with high damage output and excellent type matchups. Utilize held items like Life Orb or Choice Band to amplify offensive power. Conserve potions and berries for critical moments, especially during Horn Drill.
Mastering Tapu Bulu’s attack patterns is crucial; anticipate moves and switch Pokémon strategically. Don’t hesitate to use Protect to stall for healing or to avoid devastating attacks. Focus fire on Tapu Bulu, minimizing wasted turns. Remember, consistency is key – a single misplay can prolong the battle significantly. Patience and precise timing are your greatest allies in this challenging endeavor.
Group Raid Coordination ౼ Roles & Communication
Successful group raids against Tapu Bulu hinge on clear communication and defined roles. Designate a caller to coordinate attacks and switching. Assign roles like damage dealers, support (with Light Screen/Reflect), and potentially a dedicated Root Prison breaker.
Constant communication regarding Tapu Bulu’s phase and upcoming attacks is vital. Call out when to focus damage, when to shield, and when to switch Pokémon. Avoid overlapping moves and ensure everyone understands the current strategy. Utilize voice chat if possible for faster responses. A well-coordinated team will significantly reduce raid time and increase the chances of victory. Remember, teamwork makes the dream work!
Advanced Tactics & Hidden Mechanics
Beyond basic strategies, Tapu Bulu has subtle mechanics to exploit. Its Grassy Surge ability consistently heals it; therefore, Pokémon with abilities like Drought or strong Fire-type attacks can negate this benefit. Pay attention to the timing of Horn Drill – it has a slight tell before activation.
Understanding Tapu Bulu’s AI reveals patterns in its attack selection. It prioritizes high-damage moves when multiple targets are present; Utilizing Protect strategically can mitigate damage and buy time for healing or switching. Furthermore, certain held items, like Choice Specs, can drastically alter its offensive output. Mastering these nuances elevates your raid performance.
Exploiting Tapu Bulu’s Weaknesses
Tapu Bulu’s primary weakness lies in its typing: Grass/Fairy. This makes it exceptionally vulnerable to Poison, Steel, Fire, Flying, and Ice-type attacks. Prioritize Pokémon possessing these move types for maximum damage output. Remember that Fairy-types resist Dark attacks, lessening their effectiveness.
Focusing on super-effective hits is crucial, but consider move coverage. A Pokémon with a strong Steel-type attack and a secondary move to handle potential resistances will be more versatile. Utilizing weather-boosting moves, like Sunny Day with Fire-types, can amplify damage significantly. Don’t underestimate the power of critical hits; maximizing critical-hit ratio boosts overall DPS.
Understanding Tapu Bulu’s Attack Patterns
Tapu Bulu exhibits a predictable, yet challenging, attack pattern. It frequently utilizes Grassy Terrain to heal itself, alongside powerful Grass-type moves like Solar Beam and Leaf Storm. Be prepared for frequent use of Horn Drill in Phase 2, a devastating attack that can instantly defeat a Pokémon.
Throughout the raid, Tapu Bulu will also employ Fairy-type attacks such as Dazzling Gleam, hitting all Pokémon on the field. Recognizing these patterns allows for strategic switching and shielding. Pay close attention to its animations; a charging pose often indicates a powerful incoming attack. Anticipating these moves is key to minimizing damage and maximizing your team’s survival.
Post-Raid Rewards & Analysis
Successfully defeating Tapu Bulu yields valuable rewards! These include Experience Candies (various sizes), Rare Candies, and crucial items like Leftovers and Choice Band. More importantly, you’ll receive Tapu Bulu’s Heart Scale, essential for unlocking its unique moves via the Move Reminder. There’s also a chance to obtain Ability Capsules and Bottle Caps.
Post-raid, analyze your team’s performance. Note which Pokémon sustained the most damage, which moves were most effective, and where your item usage was highest. This self-assessment is vital for refining your strategy for future raids. Consider adjusting your team composition or held items based on these observations to improve efficiency and success rates.
What to Expect After Defeating Tapu Bulu
Upon vanquishing Tapu Bulu, a celebratory animation will play, showcasing your victory! You’ll then be presented with the raid rewards screen, detailing the items and resources earned. Don’t immediately jump into another raid; take a moment to review your haul and assess your team’s condition.
Expect to see a cooldown period before you can re-challenge Tapu Bulu in the same location. This cooldown duration varies. You can, however, participate in raids featuring other Tapu Bulu or different Pokémon. Remember to utilize the Heart Scale to unlock powerful moves for your Pokémon, enhancing their battle prowess for future encounters.
Analyzing Raid Performance & Improvement Areas
Post-raid, critically evaluate your team’s performance. Did you consistently break Tapu Bulu’s Grassy Surge? Were key Pokémon fainting too quickly? Note which Pokémon excelled and which struggled. Examine your damage output – were you maximizing your super-effective hits? Consider move choices; did your Pokémon have appropriate coverage?
Review item usage. Were your berries timed effectively? Did you have sufficient potions and revives? Analyze your team’s type synergy. A balanced team is crucial. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different Pokémon and strategies based on your findings. Learning from each raid is key to becoming a more effective raider and consistently defeating challenging opponents like Tapu Bulu.