Greavard

General Overview of Greavard

Greavard is a Ghost-type Pokémon introduced in the ninth generation and discovered in the Paldea region. Its English name is Greavard and its Japanese name is ボチ. It stands out for its appearance as a small spectral dog carrying a candle on its head, a central element of its identity and its in-game mechanics. Greavard is a basic Pokémon available in Pokémon Violet and Scarlet, encountered fairly early in the adventure, making it an interesting choice for building a Ghost-oriented team from the earliest levels.

In the Pokédex, Greavard is described as a discreet but loyal Pokémon that uses the spectral energy of its candle to attack and defend. Its modest size and weight make it a quick and difficult-to-anticipate target for opponents unprepared for the Ghost type.

Type, Base Stats, and Battle Role

Greavard is exclusively Ghost type. This type grants it key immunities, particularly against Normal and Fighting attacks, which improves its ability to switch in safely. In return, it remains susceptible to Ghost and Dark attacks, points to watch in battle.

Its base stats are balanced for an early-game Pokémon. It has decent HP, a respectable Attack, and an average Defense. Its Speed remains moderate, orienting it more toward a progressive pressure role rather than a pure sweeper.

Strategic Orientation

• Effective use in the early and mid-game

• Good potential with EV investment in Attack and Speed

• Interesting in offensive or support sets depending on the chosen moves

Moves, Abilities, and Level-Up Progression

Greavard learns several Ghost-type moves as it levels up, allowing it to fully exploit its type. Among its naturally learned attacks are shadow-based damage moves and direct strikes, ideal for progressively weakening the opposing team.

As it levels up, particularly around levels 15, 20, 25, and 40, Greavard unlocks more powerful attacks that noticeably increase its impact in battle. Some moves offer useful secondary effects, such as lowering the opponent's Defense or increasing sustained pressure over time.

TMs and Tactical Options

• Access to damage-focused Ghost TMs

• Ability to learn utility moves for double battles

• Good choice for varying sets depending on nature and IVs

Evolution, Availability, and Breeding

Greavard evolves into Houndstone after meeting a specific condition related to exploration and repeated use of Ghost-type attacks. This evolution considerably boosts its power and Defense, making Greavard particularly worthwhile to train from the moment it is obtained.

It is available in the wild across several areas of Paldea, often near tunnels, grassy areas, or isolated locations. Its catch rate is reasonable, making it easy to add to a team without requiring lengthy hunting sessions.

On the breeding side, Greavard can pass down certain moves through egg breeding, allowing its moveset to be optimized from level 1 for more advanced strategies.

Greavard in the Pokémon TCG

In the Pokémon Trading Card Game, Greavard appears as a basic Ghost-type card, often used to set up the arrival of Houndstone. Its cards generally feature low-energy-cost attacks, ideal for establishing a stadium or dealing consistent damage.

These cards are available in several recent expansions linked to Pokémon Violet and enhance Greavard's appeal among collectors and competitive players looking for effective Ghost synergies.