Patrat

Patrat is a Normal-type Pokémon introduced in the fifth generation, in Pokémon Black and White. Its French name is Ratentif and its Japanese name is ミネズミ. It represents a small rodent that is highly alert to its surroundings, recognizable by its large, always-open eyes and upright posture. Patrat is often one of the first Pokémon players encounter at the start of their adventure in the Unova region.

In the games, Patrat appears mainly at low levels in tall grass, making it a frequent target for early training. Its role is clear: to give players a simple Normal-type Pokémon to catch, useful for learning the basic mechanics such as moves, stats, and leveling up.

Type and General Information

Patrat has only the Normal type. This type gives it neutral coverage against the majority of Pokémon encountered early in the game, but it also has notable weaknesses to Fighting-type moves. On the other hand, it is immune to Ghost-type moves, which can be useful in certain specific battles.

Patrat is classified as a small Pokémon. It measures approximately 0.5 meters and weighs around 11.6 kg. Its design highlights its eyes and tail, which are central to its visual identity and often referenced in its Pokédex entries.

Stats and Progression

Patrat's base stats are oriented toward Speed and Attack. Its HP and Defense remain relatively low, which limits its ability to take powerful hits. On the other hand, its decent Speed sometimes allows it to strike first — a non-negligible advantage in the early stages of the game.

As it levels up, Patrat primarily yields Attack EVs, reflecting its simple offensive style. At low levels, it is mostly used as a transitional Pokémon before being replaced or evolved.

Patrat's Evolution

Patrat evolves into Watchog starting at level 20. This evolution noticeably improves its stats, particularly Attack and Defense, while keeping the Normal type. For players who wish to use this line for longer, evolution is practically essential to remain competitive against the stronger wild Pokémon ahead.

The transition to Watchog also shifts the strategic approach, with a more imposing Pokémon geared toward direct combat rather than simple scouting.

Moves and Useful Abilities

Patrat learns Normal-type moves suited to the early game, such as Tackle and Bite. These moves offer decent power against wild Pokémon encountered in the first areas. It can also learn certain moves via TMs, which allows for slight variation in its moveset depending on the player's progress.

• Basic Normal-type moves for the early levels

• Bite for additional coverage

• Limited but useful access to offensive TMs

Patrat in the Games and the Collection

In Pokémon Black and White, Patrat is very common on the early routes, with a high encounter rate. It is available very early on, making it a Pokémon known to all players who have explored Unova. Its Shiny form exists, with a visible color difference in its fur and eyes, which is of particular interest to collectors.

On the trading card side, Patrat appears mainly as a common card. Its value remains low, but it retains appeal for completing sets tied to the fifth generation and for collectors seeking complete series.