Drilbur

N°0529 · Generation 5

Drilbur

Farmers despise it, as it damages their vegetables by tearing through the ground with its claws.

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Characteristics

Height:
0.30
Weight:
8.50

Base stats

Total: 328
HP60
Attack85
Defense40
Sp. Atk30
Sp. Def45
Speed68

Combat strengths and weaknesses

Damage multiplier taken by Drilbur depending on the attacking move's type. ×2 and ×4 are the attacks to avoid.

3weaknesses2resistances1immunity

Weaknesses - dangerous attacks

Resistances - weak attacks

Immunities - no damage taken

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Evolutions

Sprites & artwork

Detailed information

Overview of Drilbur

Drilbur, known as Drilbur in English and モグリュー in Japanese, is a Ground-type Pokémon introduced in the Unova region. This Pokémon is easily recognizable by its large metallic claws, which it uses to dig tunnels underground at high speed. In the Pokédex, Drilbur is often described as a drilling specialist, capable of piercing through thick layers of rock to find food or move quickly.

For players, Drilbur is a very interesting Pokémon from the earliest levels of the adventure. Its quick access to powerful Ground moves and its solid offensive stats make it an excellent choice for progressing efficiently through the game. It is also valued for its solid evolution and lasting relevance in more advanced battles.

Type, weaknesses, and resistances

Drilbur is a pure Ground-type Pokémon. This type grants it complete immunity to Electric attacks, making it very useful against many opponents that rely on that type. However, its weaknesses must be carefully considered when building a team.

  • Main weaknesses: Water, Grass, Ice

  • Notable resistances: Poison, Rock

  • Immunity: Electric

These weaknesses often require the player to anticipate Pokémon switches in battle, especially against powerful special attacks.

Base stats and combat potential

Drilbur's base stats are oriented toward physical Attack. Its HP is adequate for an early- to mid-game Pokémon, while its Defense and Special Defense are more limited. Its Speed is average, but sufficient to outpace many defensive Pokémon.

This profile makes Drilbur a solid physical attacker, capable of dealing quick damage before taking too many hits. In strategic battles, it is often used as a pressure setter thanks to its powerful Ground moves.

Moves and leveling

Drilbur naturally learns several effective Ground moves by leveling up. Early on, it can use moves like Scratch or Sand Attack, before gaining access to more powerful damage-dealing moves.

  • Main Ground moves: Dig, Magnitude, Earthquake later on

  • Support moves: Sand Attack, Metal Claw depending on version

  • Useful TMs: Rock Slide, Stone Edge, Poison Jab

Thanks to TMs, Drilbur can diversify its moveset and catch certain opponents who resist the Ground type off guard.

Evolution and long-term value

Drilbur evolves into Excadrill at a certain level, considerably increasing its stats — particularly Attack and Defense. This evolution transforms Drilbur into a formidable Ground and Steel Pokémon, highly appreciated in many teams.

Even before evolving, Drilbur remains an excellent choice for progressing through the main adventure, clearing entire areas, and facing gym leaders. Its ease of use and raw power explain why it is often recommended to players looking for a reliable and effective Pokémon.

Drilbur in the games and cards

In the main games, Drilbur is generally available fairly early, often in sandy areas or caves. This makes it accessible and quickly usable. In Pokémon GO, it is also valued for its strong evolution and reasonable Candy cost.

On the trading card side, Drilbur appears regularly as a basic card focused on quick damage output. Its cards highlight its claws and its affinity with the ground, making it an interesting card for decks oriented around fast pressure and efficient evolution.

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