Nidoking is a powerful dual-type Poison/Ground Pokémon introduced in Generation I. Known as the Drill Pokémon, it is the final evolution of the male Nidoran. Nidoking is a large, bipedal creature with distinct reptilian and mammalian features, including a long, powerful tail and a venomous horn on its forehead. Its thick, purple hide provides excellent defense, while its horn is capable of crushing even diamonds. Nidoking's tail is particularly noteworthy, packing enough destructive power to topple metal transmission towers with a single swing.
This Pokémon is known for its incredible strength and fierce temperament. When Nidoking goes on a rampage, it becomes nearly impossible to control, with only a long-time companion Nidoqueen being able to calm it down. Its steel-like hide enhances its already formidable tackling ability, making it a force to be reckoned with in battle. Nidoking is also known to be very proud of its own strength, often using its powerful tail to smash, constrict, or break the bones of its prey and enemies.
Pokédex Data
- Height: 4'7" (1.4 m)
- Weight: 136.7 lbs (62.0 kg)
- Type: Poison/Ground
- Abilities: Poison Point, Rivalry (Hidden Ability: Sheer Force)
- Catch Rate: 45 (5.9% with PokéBall, full HP)
Breeding
- Gender Ratio: 100% male
- Egg Groups: Monster, Field
- Egg Cycles: 20 (4,884–5,140 steps)
Pokédex Entries Across Versions
- Red/Blue: It uses its powerful tail in battle to smash, constrict, then break the prey's bones.
- Yellow: Its steel-like hide adds to its powerful tackle. Its horns are so hard, they can pierce a diamond.
- Gold: It uses its thick arms, legs and tail to attack forcefully. Melee combat is its specialty.
- Ruby/Sapphire: Nidoking's thick tail packs enormously destructive power. With one swing, it can topple a metal transmission tower. Once this Pokémon goes on a rampage, there is no stopping it.
- Sword: When it goes on a rampage, it's impossible to control. But in the presence of a Nidoqueen it's lived with for a long time, Nidoking calms down.
Evolutions
Nidoran♂ (Level 16) → Nidorino (use Moon Stone) → Nidoking
Habits and Additions Across Generations
- In Generation 1, Nidoking had a base Special stat of 75.
- The Rivalry ability was added in Generation 4.
- Sheer Force became Nidoking's Hidden Ability in Generation 5.
- In Generation 6, Nidoking's base Attack stat was increased from 92 to 102.
- Nidoking's design has remained largely consistent across generations, maintaining its iconic appearance and powerful presence in the Pokémon world.