Choosing Oshawott as a starter in the Unova region kicks off a progression journey that ends with one of the most versatile final evolutions in the Pokémon franchise. Oshawott evolves into Dewott at level 17, and Dewott reaches its final stage, Samurott, at level 36. Depending on the game generation and region you're playing in, this iconic water starter splits into two distinct forms: the classic Unovan Samurott and the ferocious Hisuian Samurott introduced in Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
Understanding how to build, train, and utilize these final evolutions requires looking closely at their base stats, typing, and competitive movepools. Whether you're planning a playthrough team or setting up a competitive roster, knowing the strengths of both Samurott variants makes all the difference.
Unovan Samurott: Stats, Abilities, and Movepool
The standard form of Samurott is a pure Water-type Pokémon featuring a balanced offensive spread. It acts as a mixed attacker, capable of utilizing both physical and special moves with decent proficiency.
Core Statistics
- HP: 95
- Attack: 100
- Defense: 85
- Special Attack: 108
- Special Defense: 70
- Speed: 70
With a base Special Attack of 108 and an Attack stat of 100, Unovan Samurott hits reasonably hard from both sides of the offensive spectrum. Its defensive stats are moderate, giving it decent bulk to take a hit, though its lower Speed of 70 means it often has to absorb damage before retaliating.
Abilities
- Torrent: Boosts the power of Water-type moves by 50% when the Pokémon's HP drops below 33%.
- Shell Armor (Hidden Ability): Prevents opponent attacks from landing critical hits. This is often the preferred ability in competitive settings, as it eliminates RNG-based critical damage and makes defensive switching much more reliable.
Essential Moves
Unovan Samurott learns a wide variety of TM and move tutor attacks that cover multiple types, making it surprisingly adaptable:
- Hydro Pump / Surf: Reliable STAB options for heavy water damage.
- Ice Beam: Crucial coverage against Grass and Dragon types that threaten water starters.
- Megahorn: A powerful Bug-type physical attack that catches Psychic and Dark types off guard.
- Aqua Jet: Essential priority to make up for Samurott's mediocre speed tier.
Hisuian Samurott: The Dark-Type Variant
Introduced in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, the regional variant of Samurott trades its pure Water typing for a Water and Dark dual-type. This change alters its strategic role completely, turning it into a much more aggressive physical sweeper with a terrifying signature move.
Regional Differences
Hisuian Samurott adopts a darker, more rugged color scheme with a menacing shell blade. Its stat distribution shifts slightly to favor physical offense over special attacks, aligning perfectly with its new Dark typing.
Signature Move: Ceaseless Edge
Hisuian Samurott's defining trait is its signature move, Ceaseless Edge. This physical Dark-type attack deals solid damage while automatically setting spikes on the opponent's side of the field. In competitive formats where entry hazards dictate the flow of the battle, this move provides immense utility alongside offensive pressure.
Competitive Viability
Because of its Dark typing, Hisuian Samurott gains immunity to Psychic-type attacks and resistances to Ghost and Dark moves. Combined with access to Swords Dance, it can set up and sweep through opposing teams much faster than its Unovan counterpart.
Evolutionary Progression and Training Tips
Getting the most out of your Oshawott requires careful planning during the early levels. Oshawott starts off weak in physical matchups, relying heavily on special water attacks early on.
- Keep Oshawott active: Share EXP early to push past the mid-game slump when Dewott's stats plateau before level 36.
- Tailor Nature to Stats: If you're using Unovan Samurott, a Quiet or Modest nature helps maximize its special attack. For Hisuian Samurott, Adamant or Jolly natures are vital to boost physical damage or speed.
- Exploit Coverage TMs: Because Samurott lacks natural coverage for its own weaknesses, teaching it Ice Beam or Grass Knot via TM is non-negotiable for a balanced playthrough.
You can read more about game mechanics and regional variants on Bulbapedia or check official game updates on Pokémon.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level does Oshawott evolve?
Oshawott evolves into Dewott starting at level 17. Dewott then evolves into Samurott starting at level 36 in standard titles.
Is Hisuian Samurott better than Unovan Samurott?
In competitive play, Hisuian Samurott generally sees more usage due to its Water/Dark typing and the utility of Ceaseless Edge. Unovan Samurott remains a solid mixed attacker for casual playthroughs.
Can Unovan Samurott learn shell armor easily?
Shell Armor is a Hidden Ability, meaning you'll need an Ability Patch or to obtain Samurott via specific event distributions or transfers where Hidden Abilities are accessible.
What is Samurott's role in a team?
Samurott functions primarily as an offensive pivot or setup sweeper. Its movepool allows it to break through defensive walls using physical or special coverage depending on the chosen form.
