The Ultimate Ranking: Unveiling the Top Ghost-Type Pokémon!

Game Freak first introduced three Ghost-type Pokemon in the first generation of Pokemon games. These Pokemon, Gastly, Haunter, and Gengar, are part of the same evolutionary line. Over the years, the number of Ghost-type Pokemon in the series has increased to a total of 44, making them highly rare and sought after.

Ghost-type Pokemon possess unique qualities, such as special abilities or peculiar backstories, that set them apart from the numerous other pocket monsters. For Pokemon trainers eager to incorporate a Ghost-type Pokemon into their team, here are the top Ghost-type Pokemon throughout the history of the series.

Updated on July 9, 2023, by Jeff Drake: Ghost-type Pokemon possess a unique set of abilities. While they struggle to cause damage to Normal types and are particularly vulnerable to Dark Pokemon, they prove to be formidable opponents against most other types. It is wise to include a Ghost-type Pokemon in your main party, as they excel at handling Normal and Fighting-type Pokemon that deal heavy Physical damage. Ghost types make excellent choices for leading battles, as they have minimal weaknesses to other types. In this updated list, we have added five more entries.

20 Gholdengo

Debuting in Pokemon: Scarlet and Violet, Gholdengo is a Steel/Ghost-type that showcases Niantic possibly reaching the limits of their creativity in Pokemon design. However, once fully leveled, this Pokemon proves to be a formidable contender in battle.

The move-set options for Gholdengo are a bit limited, but its impressive Special Attack stat allows it to maximize the potential of its moves, which primarily consist of Special Attacks. Additionally, its Good As Gold ability grants it immunity to the opponent's status-affecting moves. The main drawbacks of Gholdengo are its average speed and a move-set that lacks both variety and quantity.

19 Skeledirge

Unlike many Pokemon whose names evoke a recognizable image, Skeledirge does not fall into this category. This particular Fire/Ghost-type Pokemon bears a striking resemblance to a mechanical alligator coated in vibrant red paint. Its appearance alone is indicative of the formidable power it possesses, making it an intimidating force to be reckoned with on the battlefield.

Skeledirge possesses a range of stats extending from average to impressive, coupled with an exceptional move-pool. Although a significant majority of its available moves belong to the Fire type, this lack of diversity proves advantageous for Skeledirge, all thanks to its extraordinary Blaze ability. With this unique attribute, Skeledirge's Fire-type moves inflict an additional 50% damage when its hit points fall below one-third of its maximum.

18 Annihilape

Annihilape is an exceptional Pokemon with minimal drawbacks. It boasts impressive all-around stats, barring its Special Attack, although only a single move in Annihilape's repertoire relies on this attribute. This particular move, known as "Final Gambit," inflicts damage equivalent to the user's current hit points, rendering the below-average Special Attack inconsequential.

17 Dragapult

Sleep is undeniably one of the most irksome status effects in the Pokemon franchise, often leading to catastrophic outcomes for all but the most formidable Pokemon. However, fear not, for there exists a glimmer of hope in the form of Annihilape and its extraordinary Vital Spirit ability. This remarkable trait grants it immunity against the clutches of slumber during battle, safeguarding it even when utilizing the restorative Rest move.

With a combination of Ghost and Dragon types, this particular Pokémon possesses numerous advantageous traits that trainers should actively seek in their team. Foremost among them is Dragapult's exceptional speed, which ranks among the highest in the entire Pokédex. Only a handful of Pokémon surpass Dragapult in terms of average speed. This swift attribute ensures that Dragapult will typically have the first move in battles, allowing it to swiftly unleash its devastating Dragon-type moves and inflict substantial damage upon adversaries.

In addition to possessing a superb move-pool, brimming with exceptionally destructive attack moves, Dragapult possesses two remarkably rare and potent abilities. Clear Body serves to prevent opposing Pokemon from reducing Dragapult's stats, although its own moves have the potential to lower them. Infiltrator bestows upon Dragapult the ability to pierce through the protective barriers provided by Reflect, Light Screen, and Safeguard.

16 Golurk

Golurk can be likened to an iron golem in the Pokemon realm. As a towering automaton, Golurk possesses the Ground/Ghost typing, which may initially suggest an indomitable force. However, this combination is susceptible to five move-types that possess a super effective advantage. On the flip side, Golurk's typing grants it immunity to three types, namely Normal, Electric, and Fighting, while also endowing it with strength against Poison, Grass, and Rock.

This Pokemon has the Iron Fist ability. All "punch" attacks deal 20% more damage. Golurk has numerous punch moves in its move-pool and can learn others via TMs or TRs.

15 Aegislash

Aegislash secures a place on this list as not just a special Ghost-type Pokemon, but also as one of the most distinctive Pokemon overall. Until recently, Aegislash and its evolutionary line were the sole Ghost and Steel-type Pokemon, making its uncommon type combination a noteworthy aspect. However, Aegislash's uniqueness extends beyond its rare typing.

14 Banette

And if that weren't sufficient, Aegislash possesses the ability to interchange between two forms during battles: Blade Forme for offensive maneuvers and Shield Forme for defensive positioning. Moreover, Aegislash stands out as the sole Pokemon in the series capable of mastering the move King's Shield, making it an unparalleled entity within the Pokemon realm.

Banette, the evolved form of Shuppet, was originally introduced as a member of the third generation of Pokemon. When it comes to Ghost-type Pokemon, Banette stands out with its chilling backstory.

Banette, born from the depths of hatred, possesses a unique ability to afflict its foes by piercing its own body with needles akin to a voodoo doll. As the games progressed, the introduction of the Banettite item further augmented Banette's otherworldly powers, empowering it to evolve into the formidable Mega Banette.

13 Chandelure

Chandelure, resembling a haunted chandelier, easily qualifies as one of the most peculiar-looking Pokemon. Nevertheless, this Ghost-type creature has garnered a significant fanbase and has even made appearances in various video games beyond the traditional Pokemon series.

For example, Chandelure appears as an enemy in Super Smash Bros.for the Nintendo 3DS and is also a part of the Pokken Tournament roster.

12 Spectrier

Spectrier can be described as a spectral black stallion, resembling a ghostly and shadowy version of Rapidash. This remarkable Pokemon stands out for its exceptional Special Attack and Speed ratings, making it a force to be reckoned with. It is also a crucial member of the group that comprises arguably the top-ranking Ghost-type Pokemon on this list.

Many of Spectrier's attack moves pack a punch, but the drawback is that its strongest attacks have a recoil effect. Moreover, these potent moves rely on physical strength, which is not advantageous considering Spectrier's impressive Special Attack stat and mediocre Attack stat. Nonetheless, Spectrier does have access to moves like Stomp and Shadow Ball, providing some options for combat.

11 Decidueye

Rowlet, the new starter Pokemon unveiled for Pokemon Sun and Moon, quickly became a global sensation with its undeniable charm and adorableness, captivating enthusiasts of the beloved franchise worldwide.

10 Flutter Mane

Decidueye, the final form of Rowlet and a Grass/Ghost-type Pokemon, gained immense popularity upon its unveiling. Its widespread appeal ultimately led to Decidueye being added as an exclusive fighter in the Nintendo Switch version of Pokken TournamentDX.

When it comes to the Pokemon series, appearances can be deceiving, especially in the case of Flutter Mane. Despite its innocent exterior, this Pokemon proves to be a formidable fighter. Flutter Mane boasts exceptional Special Attack, Special Defense, and Speed ratings, although its remaining stats leave room for improvement.

Flutter Mane possesses an impressive array of potent attacks. Moreover, its move list exhibits a diverse set of move types, encompassing Perish Song, Moonblast, Pain Split, Mystical Fire, and Psyshock. As long as trainers effectively ward off formidable physical assailants, such as Fighting-types, this Pokemon should effortlessly emerge victorious in battles.

9 Gengar

One of the most iconic Ghost-type Pokémon in the history of the series, Gengar made its debut in Pokémon Red and Blue. As the evolved form of Gastly and Haunter, Gengar has consistently played a prominent role in various forms of Pokémon media ever since its introduction. Notably, Gengar holds the distinction of being one of the first Pokémon to appear on-screen in the anime series.

8 Giratina

- Gengar's Pokedex entry in Pokemon Moon is truly unsettling, portraying the creature as exceptionally intriguing. It is said that Gengar's profound solitude and yearning for a companion drive it to take the lives of innocent individuals, ultimately birthing new spectral beings.

Giratina, a Ghost and Dragon-type Pokemon, ranks among the most formidable entries on this list due to its unmatched capability to traverse various dimensions. It stands out as one of the legendary creatures introduced in the fourth generation of Pokemon games, and notably assumes the role of the official representative for Pokemon Platinum.

Giratina, featured prominently in the Pokemon anime movie Giratina and the Sky Warriors, firmly established its position as one of the most significant ghost-type Pokemon in the history of the series.

7 Lunala

Lunala, a legendary Ghost-type Pokemon, made its debut in Pokemon Sun and Moon. This formidable creature possesses the astounding ability to generate wormholes. What makes Lunala's power all the more impressive is that it evolves from the seemingly feeble Pokemon Cosmog, which is found in Pokemon Moon.

6 Marowak (Alola Form)

In addition to its overwhelming power, Lunala is the solitary Pokemon (up until now) with the ability to acquire the Ghost-type technique known as Moongeist Beam. This move compels the Pokemon to assume its Full Moon phase upon activation.

The Alola region in Pokemon Sun and Moon introduced an exciting new concept known as Alola Forms. These are redesigned versions of first-generation Pokemon that have adapted differently from their Kanto region counterparts due to the unique climate of Alola. Among these Alola Forms is Marowak, a Pokemon that undergoes a remarkable transformation from a Ground-type to a Fire/Ghost-type in Sun and Moon.

5 Marshadow

Alola Form Marowak's Ghost-type nature aligns perfectly with its haunting backstory. As fans may recall, Marowak evolves from Cubone, a Pokemon known for wearing its deceased mother's skull as a protective helmet. The presence of a ghostly Marowak in Lavender Town in Pokemon Red, Blue, and Yellow adds to the eerie aura surrounding this Pokemon, even before its official Ghost-type classification.

Marshadow, a recent addition to the Pokemon universe, made its debut in generation seven (Sun and Moon). As one of only two Pokemon with the unique typing of Fighting/Ghost, it possesses a powerful advantage. The dual nature of this combination proves to be highly effective as opponents who excel against Fighting-types often struggle against Ghost-types, and vice versa.

This Pokemon possesses the impressive Technician ability, amplifying the power of all moves with a rating of 60 or below by 50%. This upgrade significantly enhances the effectiveness of these average attack moves. Among its most formidable techniques are Close Combat, Spectral Thief, Drain Punch, and Laser Focus.

4 Mimikyu

Mimikyu's backstory is incredibly bleak among the Ghost-type Pokemon. Despite its yearning to form friendships with humans, this diminutive Fairy and Ghost-type creature is said to induce illness merely through its appearance. Consequently, it is shunned by the majority of individuals.

3 Sableye

Mimikyu dons a clever Pikachu costume in its quest to gain popularity. Although its beguiling appearance is simultaneously endearing and eerie, Mimikyu undeniably ranks among the top Ghost-type Pokémon throughout the entire series.

Sableye, an unusual creature resembling a goblin, is a Pokemon of the Dark and Ghost types, originally introduced in the third generation of the franchise. Notably, Sableye is rarely observed during the daytime and typically chooses to inhabit caves. Furthermore, its primary source of sustenance comprises precious gemstones.

Pokemon GO players may encounter a shiny Sableye while exploring the wilderness, but caution should be exercised to avoid direct eye contact. Legend has it that gazing into its eyes could result in the affliction of losing one's soul.

2 Necrozma (Dawn Wings Form)

Necrozma possesses an astonishing level of power, leaving a terrifying impression. This extraordinary Pokemon harnesses the powers of Lunala, the fourth-ranked Pokemon on this list, to enhance its supernatural abilities. The Dawn Wings form of Necrozma exhibits an incredibly elevated Special Attack rating, capable of swiftly defeating numerous Pokemon with a sufficiently forceful offensive move. Apart from its Speed, which remains fairly average, this Pokemon's other attributes greatly surpass the norm.

Some of the top moves for Necrozma include Prismatic Laser, Photon Geyser, Psycho Cut, and Morning Sun. Prismatic Laser stands out as a particularly brutal move, boasting a power rating of 160, accuracy of 100, and a PP count of 10. Meanwhile, Morning Sun grants Necrozma the ability to restore its own health during battles.

1 Calyrex (Shadow Rider Form)

Arguably the most impressive Ghost-type Pokemon in the series thus far, the Shadow Rider form of Calyrex surpasses all others. Combining the powers of Calyrex and Spectrier, this formidable creature only shows vulnerability to Bug, Dark, and Ghost types. However, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, with exceptionally high stats across the board. Particularly noteworthy are its outstanding Special Attack and Speed ratings, placing it among the top contenders in the game.

Despite not having any Ghost-type moves, Shadow Form Calyrex possesses an impressive arsenal of powerful Grass and Psychic-type attacks. Its move-set can be enhanced with Future Sight, Solar Beam, Leech Seed, and Giga Drain.