Cubone is a unique and beloved Pokemon introduced in the first generation of Pokemon games, Red and Blue. Known for its distinctive skull helmet and poignant backstory, Cubone has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. This small Ground-type Pokemon, often referred to as the "Lonely Pokemon," is characterized by its sad demeanor and its deep emotional connection to its mother.
Biology and Appearance
Cubone is a small, bipedal Pokemon that stands at about 1'4" (0.4 m) tall and weighs approximately 14.3 lbs (6.5 kg). The most characteristic thing about it is the skull it wears on its head, which is said to be that of its deceased mother. This skull covers its face entirely, leaving only its eyes visible through the eye sockets. Cubone's body is primarily a light brown color, with a cream-colored underbelly. Its limbs are short but sturdy, and it wields a bone as a club, which it uses both for combat and for digging.
Behaviour
Cubone is known for its solitary nature, often found wandering alone. It is deeply affected by the loss of its mother, and it is said to weep for her, particularly during the night when the moon is visible. The sound of its cries is known to echo mournfully, and this forms a key part of its lore. Despite its sad disposition, Cubone is a resilient and determined Pokemon, capable of holding its own in battles using its bone club.
Lore
Cubone's lore is one of the most poignant in the Pokemon series. According to its Pokedex entries, the skull it wears is from its deceased mother, and it mourns her death constantly. This backstory further adds complexity and tragedy to Cubone's personality, making it one of the more emotionally deeper Pokémon in the series. More about the tale of Cubone's mother is explored during the Lavender Town arc of the games, where players find out more about the ghost Marowak haunting Pokemon Tower.
Evolution
Cubone evolves into Marowak at level 28. Marowak sheds the skull helmet for a sturdier, more integrated bone helmet, signifying its growth and acceptance of its past. Marowak becomes more aggressive and powerful, better equipped to defend itself and assert its strength.
Alolan Evolution
In the Alola region, Cubone can evolve into Alolan Marowak when levelled up at level 28 in the night. Alolan Marowak is a dual Fire/Ghost-type Pokemon, significantly different from its Kanto counterpart. This evolution reflects the Alolan Marowak's role as a guardian and its connection to the spiritual and fiery elements of the Alola region.
Type: Strengths & Weaknesses
As a Ground-type Pokemon, Cubone is strong against Electric, Fire, Poison, Rock, and Steel types. However, it has weaknesses to Water, Ice, and Grass types. The Alolan Marowak, being a Fire/Ghost-type, has different strengths and weaknesses, being immune to Normal and Fighting moves but vulnerable to Water, Rock, Ground, Ghost, and Dark-type moves.
Shiny Cubone
Shiny Cubone is a rare variant of Cubone with a distinctive greenish hue instead of the usual light brown. This unique coloration makes it highly sought after by Pokemon trainers. In Pokemon GO, Shiny Cubone is more commonly found during special events and Community Days. Upon evolving, Shiny Cubone retains its greenish color as Shiny Marowak or gains striking blue flames as Shiny Alolan Marowak, adding to its appeal.
Base Stats
Cubone's base stats are:
| HP | 50 |
| Attack | 50 |
| Defense | 95 |
| Special Attack | 40 |
| Special Defense | 50 |
| Speed | 35 |
| Total | 320 |
These stats reflect its role as a defensive Pokemon with decent physical attack capabilities.
Abilities
Cubone has the abilities Rock Head and Lightning Rod. Rock Head prevents recoil damage from moves like Double-Edge, while Lightning Rod draws in Electric-type moves, raising Cubone's Special Attack when hit by them. Its hidden ability is Battle Armor, which prevents critical hits from landing on Cubone.
Best Moveset
A recommended moveset for Cubone includes:
Bone Club: A signature move with decent power and more importantly has a chance to flinch the opponent.
Stealth Rock: Great move to set up hazards on field to punish switch ins.
Earthquake: A powerful Ground-type move with high base power that hits everyone on the battlefield.
Rock Slide: Provides coverage with a chance to flinch.
For competitive play, Cubone benefits from using an Eviolite, which boosts its Defense and Special Defense.
Alternate Moves for Cubone: Substitute, Endure, Endeavor, Thrash, Mud-Slap, Sandstorm, Dig, Swagger.
First Appearance
Cubone first appeared in Pokemon Red and Blue, released in 1996. It has since appeared in a number of spin-offs and side series, games, the Pokemon anime episodes, and a variety of merchandise.
Trivia
Cubone's name is derived from "cub" (a young animal) and "bone."
The design of Cubone is inspired by the story of an orphaned animal mourning its parent, a common theme in various cultures and mythologies.
In the Pokemon anime, Cubone is featured in several episodes, often highlighting its lonely nature and determination.
Cubone's cries at night are a significant element of its lore, often mentioned in its Pokedex entries.
Conclusion
Cubone will always remain a memorable and tremendous Pokemon in the franchise - maybe not for its combatant features but most definitely for the deep emotional story that surrounds it. Its evolution and regional variant bring even more depth to its already unique history and versatility in many Pokemon games.
