Gorander is now a wild spawn in Pokémon GO, allowing players to catch it without special events. It reaches a maximum CP of 2,844, but legacy moves such as Hard Plant are no longer obtainable. To maximize its impact, use fast Leaf Blade paired with versatile charge moves like Power Whip or Flash Beam, and prioritize high Attack and HP IVs for a quick‑hit, high‑damage playstyle.
Current Availability and Legacy Moves
Since mid‑January 2024, Gorander appears in grassy and forested geohashes at rates comparable to other Grass‑type Pokémon. Legacy moves (e.g., Hard Plant, Grass Blade) can only be retained by players who previously obtained them; they cannot be taught again through TMs.
Recommended Moveset and Max CP
The optimal combat configuration focuses on speed and type coverage while acknowledging the lack of legacy moves.
- Fast Move: Leaf Blade – fast, reliable damage that secures early energy in raids and PvP.
- Charge Move Options:
- Power Whip (Normal) – broad effectiveness against most types.
- Flash Beam (Electric) – handles Water and Flying threats that resist Grass.
- Energy Bolt (Electric) – useful for covering Water‑type raid bosses.
Gorander’s maximum CP is 2,844, placing it among the strongest Grass‑type attackers.
Battle Roles
Raid Battles
With high Attack and modest Defense (base 120), Gorander excels at delivering rapid, heavy damage against raid bosses that are weak to Grass, such as Shiftry or Rotom. Pair Leaf Blade with Energy Bolt to swiftly break shields and finish fights.
GO Battle League (GBL)
In the Gold League, Gorander’s Water, Ground, and Rock weaknesses make it a risky pick. However, in Silver and Bronze leagues its fast energy generation and versatile charge moves can surprise opponents, especially in speed‑focused metas.
PvP (Trainer Battles)
The standard PvP setup is Leaf Blade + Flash Beam. While Flash Beam lacks a stun effect, its Electric typing counters Grass’s primary weaknesses. For IV investment, aim for high Attack and HP with a defensive IV of 10 or lower (e.g., Attack 15 / Defense 10 / HP 15).
Powering Up and Future Outlook
Gorander is a “damage‑focused” Grass Pokémon with a relatively low power‑up cost, making it an ideal sub‑member for raid teams. Its low Defense means it should be employed in hit‑and‑run tactics rather than prolonged battles. Though the return of legacy moves is unlikely, Niantic has previously re‑released legacy moves during special events, leaving a small chance for future re‑distribution.
Quick Summary
- Gorander now spawns in the wild, reducing acquisition difficulty.
- Legacy moves are unavailable; use Leaf Blade plus Power Whip or Flash Beam.
- Maximum CP is 2,844; prioritize high Attack and HP IVs.
- Best employed for fast, high‑damage raids and surprise tactics in lower‑level GBL.
- Future events could re‑introduce legacy moves, potentially boosting its battle value.
