Top 5 Pokemon GO Max Battles you should prioritize farming in December 2024

December in Pokemon GO is shaping up to be an exciting month for Max Raid enthusiasts. A diverse lineup of Pokemon spanning various types and niches will definitely keep trainers busy as they strategize and prepare for future battles. Whether you are looking to strengthen your roster, collect XL Candy, or grab some high-value Gigantamax Pokemon, December’s schedule offers some gems.

To help you plan, here are the top five Max Battles you should prioritize farming this month.

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Top 5 highest priority Pokemon GO Max Battles for December

5) Kanto & Galar Starters (various dates)

Galar Starters in GO Max Battles (Image via The Pokemon Company)

The starters from both Kanto and Galar regions return this month, providing opportunities to strengthen your Fire, Water, and Grass rosters. Although Galar starters like Scorbunny and Sobble generally outshine their Kanto counterparts in terms of Max Raid offense, Blastoise and Charizard remain excellent tanks.

If you are building a balanced team or preparing for future Gigantamax releases, these Pokemon are worth your time.

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4) Machop (Dec 3–9)

Machop as seen in the anime (Image via The Pokemon Company)

For trainers looking to bolster their Fighting roster, Machop is a worthwhile raid target. Its final evolution, Machamp, is a reliable Fighting-type Pokemon that is easier to power up compared to other options like Falinks.

With a Gigantamax form likely on the horizon, farming Machop now will give you a head start on XL Candy. It is particularly useful for players in rural areas where access to high-level Fighting Pokemon is limited.

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3) Cryogonal (Dec 23–Jan 6)

Cryogonal as seen in the anime (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Cryogonal makes its debut as a Dmax option this holiday season, and will make a festive addition to any trainer’s roster. While it does not quite match the raw power or bulk of Galarian Lapras, it is a solid alternative for those who can’t participate in Lapras raids.

Its respectable Attack and decent bulk make it a viable Max Ice attacker for future battles, especially if you are building a versatile team.

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2) Lapras (Dec 8, 2–5 PM only)

Gigantamax Lapras as announced in the game (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Arguably the most valuable Pokemon this month, Lapras is a bulky tank and powerful Ice attacker. It stands out as the ultimate counter against Water and Ice types, offering excellent longevity in future Max Battles.

Given its limited availability and immense utility, this is a Pokemon you don’t want to miss out on. Make sure to team up with other trainers to maximize your chances of securing this rare gem.

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1) Beldum (Dec 3–9)

Beldum as seen in the anime (Image via The Pokemon Company)

A pseudo-legendary with incredible versatility, Beldum is a must-catch this month. Its evolved form, Metagross, is one of the best Steel and Psychic attackers in the game and remains a top pick for both Dmax and Gmax raids.

Additionally, with the likelihood of a Meteor Mash Community Day move coming back soon, this is your chance to stock up on XL Candy and secure a strong team. Prioritize Beldum if you are looking for a long-term investment for raids and PvP battles.

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Honorable mentions

• Krabby (Dec 9–23): While Kingler boasts a high Attack stat, it is outclassed by other Water-types like Blastoise and Inteleon.
• Wooloo & Skwovet (Dec 3–23): These Normal-types have limited utility and are better skipped unless you are filling out your Pokedex.

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With this diverse lineup of Max Battles in December, there is something for every trainer to look forward to. Focus on these top picks to maximize your gains and prepare for future challenges in Pokemon GO.

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Check out our other guides related to the game:

• Ditto disguises
• Buddy Evolution Adventure Together guide
• Best Fast Attacks in the game
• Sierra counters
• Cliff counters
• Arlo counters
• Giovanni counters
• Team GO Rocket Grunts