Gengar Build in PokeSurvivor

Gengar stats and starting move

The high speed gives you more room to reposition, but 97 HP means a single bad pocket can still end the run. Treat speed as a way to avoid damage, not as a substitute for defense.

Best moves for Gengar

Gengar can use its own Ghost/Poison types plus the shared Normal pool. Only the active move normally fires, so the goal is to build one reliable attack and keep the others as coverage choices.

Shadow Ball is the starting projectile and a sensible default: it pierces several foes and evolves into Phantom Force with Reflexes. Hex is a different choice for targets that are already burned, poisoned or slowed; it is not a universal replacement.

Shadow Ball evolution path

1. Raise Shadow Ball to level 5.
2. Take the Reflexes stat card at least once in the same run.
3. Select the golden evolution card when it appears.

The evolution is not automatic just because you meet the conditions. If the golden card never appears, check the move level and the exact card, and see the full evolution guide.

Best held items for Gengar

• Choice Band: +40% damage, but you cannot switch moves. Best for single-move damage builds; trade-off: locks you into the active move.
• Quick Claw: -20% cooldown on all your moves. Best for frequent-cast builds; trade-off: no raw damage or defense bonus.
• Focus Sash: A hit that would knock you out leaves you at 1 HP (every 60 seconds). Best for learning rifts and boss fights; trade-off: only saves you once per minute.
• Life Orb: +30% damage, but each attack costs a little HP. Best for glass-cannon damage builds; trade-off: punishes long fights and low hp.
• Assault Vest: +20% damage reduction. Best for surviving crowded waves; trade-off: no offensive bonus.

For a first clear, Focus Sash or Assault Vest is easier to use than a pure damage item. Life Orb and Choice Band are for runs where you already avoid hits and want more damage. See all 11 items before replacing one.

Rift and boss plan

Use Gengar’s speed to stay outside telegraphed circles and lines. Do not dash into a closed pocket just to collect experience. Against a rift legendary, check its type first: Ghost/Poison coverage is not equally useful in every arena. A defensive item is usually the safer first attempt.

How to get Gengar

Gengar is a 4★ Kanto partner in the game snapshot. Use thegacha guide for regional banners, tickets and pity. If you already have it, theGengar Pokémon page has the full stat and move reference.

Gengar build FAQ

Is Gengar the best partner?

No universal best partner is verified. Gengar is a fast attacker with low HP; the best choice depends on your goal and the moves you can evolve.

Which move should I evolve first?

Shadow Ball is the straightforward starting path because it is already the initial move and evolves with Reflexes. Hex is a situational alternative.

Does Choice Band work on Gengar?

It can, but only if you are willing to stay on one move. If you expect to switch coverage, use a different item.