Pokémon Go Giovanni Counters and Team Line-up: April 2026

18.08.2025 Comment Views: 8

Giovanni’s lineup received a significant shake-up following the launch of the Pokémon Go “Steeled Resolve: Taken Over” event in late April 2026.

As of the most recent update on April 30, 2026, the Team Go Rocket boss is anchored by the formidable Shadow Landorus. If you are looking to add this legendary to your collection, you will need to secure a Super Rocket Radar through the event’s specific progression paths. Because Giovanni’s legendary rotation changes periodically, it is wise to act quickly before this opportunity vanishes.

Giovanni remains one of the most punishing encounters in the game. This guide breaks down his current roster and the best tactical counters to ensure you come out on top.

Update (April 30): This guide has been revised to reflect new mechanics regarding Team Go Rocket takeovers and how to acquire access to Giovanni.

How to Track Down Giovanni

The “Steeled Resolve: Taken Over” event introduced a shift in how players hunt the boss. Super Rocket Radars are now tied exclusively to the Go Pass. You can either purchase the $4.99 deluxe pass for immediate access or grind to reach rank 30 on the free track before the event concludes.

Once you have a Super Rocket Radar equipped, Giovanni will occasionally appear in Team Go Rocket balloons or at invaded PokéStops. Be aware that Decoy Grunts often hide his true location, so you may need to check a few spots before spotting the leader himself.

Fortunately, if you lose, you can rechallenge him as many times as necessary, provided you remain within range of the PokéStop. This is a welcome change from previous iterations, where Special Research quests limited your attempts.

Current Giovanni Line-up

Giovanni currently fields the following roster:

Slot 1: Persian
Slot 2: Kangaskhan, Rhyperior, OR Nidoking
Slot 3: Shadow Landorus

The good news is that you can cover most of his weaknesses by bringing a balanced team of Fighting, Water, and Ice-type Pokémon. These types provide excellent coverage against his entire current rotation.

Top Recommended Counters

While Giovanni’s Pokémon boast high base stats, his limited variety makes him easier to prepare for than other Rocket Leaders. Bring your strongest Pokémon and follow these recommendations.

Opening Pokémon (Persian)

Persian is your primary hurdle for burning through his shields. Use high-DPS Fighting-types:

Terrakion: Double Kick / Sacred Sword
Machamp: Counter / Dynamic Punch
Lucario: Counter / Aura Sphere
Conkeldurr: Counter / Dynamic Punch

Middle Pokémon Counters

His second Pokémon depends on his luck, so stay flexible:

Against Kangaskhan: Stick with your Fighting-types (Terrakion, Machamp, or Lucario).
Against Rhyperior: Switch to Grass or Water types like Decidueye (Leafage/Frenzy Plant), Venusaur (Vine Whip/Frenzy Plant), or Kyogre (Waterfall/Origin Pulse).
Against Nidoking: Utilize Ice or Water attackers such as Mamoswine (Powder Snow/Avalanche) or Quaquaval (Water Gun/Hydro Cannon).

Closing Pokémon (Landorus)

Because Landorus is weak to Ice-type moves, he is highly susceptible to a quick knockout. Prioritize these heavy hitters:

Mamoswine: Powder Snow / Avalanche
Galarian Darmanitan: Ice Fang / Avalanche
White Kyurem: Ice Fang / Ice Burn
Glaceon: Frost Breath / Avalanche

Pro-Tips for Victory

Giovanni will use his two shields against your first charged attacks. Use a Pokémon with a fast-charging move to bait these shields early, then swap in your heavy hitters to capitalize on the advantage.

Upon victory, you will earn a guaranteed encounter with Shadow Landorus. Use a Pinap Berry to maximize your candy gains from the catch. Furthermore, each defeat nets you four Shadow Shards, helping you accumulate materials for Purified Gems more efficiently.

Source: Polygon