What are fairy type weaknesses
Fairy type weaknesses center on Steel and Poison moves, which deal 2x damage to Fairy. In core series Pokémon, Steel is the most consistent and powerful counter, while Poison provides reliable neutral coverage and synergy with Ground. Fighting also threatens Fairy, though less severely, and certain status conditions can compound pressure. Understanding these matchups helps you anticipate risks, build balanced teams, and switch safely when facing Fairy opponents.
Primary type weaknesses
Steel type moves
Steel is the defining weakness for Fairy, dealing 2x damage with high base power and strong defensive utility. Common Steel moves include Heavy Slam, Flash Cannon, and Iron Head. Steel’s widespread coverage and resistances make it a cornerstone of Fairy checks in most formats.
Poison type moves
Poison also hits Fairy for 2x damage and often appears on mixed or specially oriented Pokémon. Moves such as Sludge Bomb, Poison Jab, and Cross Poison are common choices, supported by reliable recovery and utility options like Taunt.
Fighting type moves
Fighting is super effective against Fairy, though less central than Steel or Poison. Dynamic punches, close comabt, and aura sphere provide strong offensive pressure, especially on Pokémon that can threaten Fairy without relying solely on type matchups.
Key matchup summary
| Attacking type | Damage multiplier | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Steel | 2x | Primary and most consistent weakness |
| Possion | 2x | Strong secondary option with flexible coverage |
| Fighting | 2x | Useful but generally less central |
Common resistances and immunities
Fairy resists Fighting, Bug, and Dark, which reduces damage from those sources and can encourage them to switch into you. It is immune to Dragon, so Dragon moves cannot threaten Fairy regardless of power or secondary effects. These traits make Fairy helpful for pivoting into certain attacks and safely walling Dragon teams.
Strategic implications for team building
When building around Fairy, include reliable Steel or Poison answers to deter switch-ins and protect your Fairy from predicted switches. Pair Fairy with teammates that can cover its other weaknesses, such as Fire for Steel and Ground for opposing threats that pressure Steel. Balanced teams use these checks to maintain flexibility while reducing reliance on prediction.
Practical switch-in guidance
- Predict the likely move and consider whether it is a Steel or Poison type.
- Switch into non–super-effective attacks and use status or hazards to create opportunities.
- Maintain answers on your team for opposing Fairy counters to avoid being forced into unfavorable switches.