Pokemon UNITE

Greninja Guide: Builds and Best Items

Pokemon UNITE - Greninja Guide Builds Best Items and Moveset

The best guide on how to play Greninja in Pokemon UNITE for Nintendo Switch and Mobile. Check here for the best builds, Held and Battle items, movesets, as well as the latest nerfs, buffs, counters, and more!

Greninja Latest Nerfs & Buffs (08/22)

Version 1.15.1.7 Patch Notes

Greninja Stat and Move Changes (August 22)
Stat Buff • Attack increased from 146-460 to 146-500 (Lv.1-15).
Smokescreen Image
Smokescreen
• Boosted Attack damage increased by 12%.
Waterburst Shuriken Image
Waterburst Shuriken
• Energy needed decreased by 25%.
• Damage increased by 20%.

Stat Updates

1.2.1.3 Attack and max HP decreased.
1.15.1.7 Attack increased from 146-460 to 146-500 (Lv.1-15).

Standard Attack

1.3.1.2 Boosted attack bugfix
1.1.1.4 Basic Attack: Bug Fixes

Smokescreen

1.2.1.3 Fixed a bug causing the Smokescreen+ effect to trigger even before the move is upgraded.
1.1.1.6 Attack damage boost after using decreased from about 1.75x to about 1.2x (-75%). Increased the cooldown period from 11 seconds to 13 seconds (+18%).
1.5.1.6 Fixed bug(s) causing one or more effects not to trigger.
1.15.1.7 Boosted Attack damage increased by 12%.

Surf

1.5.1.6 Damage dealt to opposing Pokemon decreased from 1625 to 1402 (-14%).

Water Shuriken

1.3.1.2 Cooldown lengthened from 5s to 6s. (+1s) Bugfix: opposing Pokemon movement speed decrease.
1.2.1.3 Fixed a bug affecting the decrease to opposing Pokemon's movement speed.
1.1.1.6 Cooldown period decreased from 7 seconds to 5 seconds (-29%). Damage per hit increased from 755 to 890 (+18%).
1.7.1.9 Fixed the number of shurikens to 4. Damage increased. Water Shuriken+: Fixed the number of shurikens to 5. Damage increased.
1.13.1.2 Movement speed reduction effect increased from 25% → 35%. Movement speed increase changed from 15% → 25%.

Double Team

1.3.1.2 Damage to opposing Pokemon decreased.
1.2.1.3 Improvement the movement of the illusory copies.
1.1.1.6 Cooldown period decreased from 11 seconds to 9 seconds (-18%).
1.7.1.9 Damage increased.
1.13.1.2 Cooldown decreased from 9s → 8s. Double Team +: Cooldown decreased from 8s → 7s.

Torrent

1.2.1.3 Attack increase buff weakened.

Water Burst Shuriken

1.3.1.2 Bugfix: opposing Pokemon movement speed decreased. Cooldown increased from around 164s to around 166s. (+2s)
1.2.1.3 Adjusted the move to allow it to trigger more quickly.
1.5.1.2 UNITE Move Cooldown Reduced from 163s to 134s (-18%).
1.15.1.7 Energy needed decreased by 25%. Damage increased by 20%.

Greninja Basic Info

Greninja
Greninja.jpg
Tier Rating: A Rank Icon

Role: Attacker
Attack Type: Ranged
Damage Type: Physical
Difficulty: Expert
Cost:
"Greninja is a Pokémon that uses smokescreens and illusory copies of itself to hide."

Pokemon Unite Tier List

Greninja Best Lanes

Top Icon.pngTop Jungle Icon.pngJungle Bot Icon.pngBottom
4 Stars.png
5 Stars.png
3 Stars.png

Tips & Strategies for Every Lane

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths Weaknesses
✔︎ Speedster-like mobility and stealth for superb Jungling.
✔︎ High Standard Attack damage for both melee and ranged attacks.
✔︎ Moveset can disrupt enemy aiming and vision.
✖︎ High skill ceiling with many skill-shot accuracy based moves.
✖︎ Very Fragile.
✖︎ Takes a long time to reach power spike.

Best Builds for Greninja

Greninja Builds
-

Ranged Build

Ranged Build
Pokemon UNITE - Best Build Icon
Moveset Held Items
Battle Item
Item Effects
(at Level 30)
Recommended Lane
Attack: +33
Defense: +30
Sp. Def: +30
Attack Speed: +7.50%
Pokemon UNITE - Top Lane Recommendation Yes Top Lane
Pokemon UNITE - Jungle Recommendation Yes Jungle
Pokemon UNITE - Bot Lane Recommendation Yes Bot Lane
Emblem Color Combination Target Emblem Stats
Positive Stats:
Attack
Critical-Hit Rate
Free Negative Stats:
Sp. Atk
Defense
Sp. Def
Note:
The emblem color and stats here are suggestions only. The builds are still viable even without the suggested emblems.

Ranged Build Explanation

This build is centered on dealing damage and sustaining HP using Water Shuriken and utilizing the illusion mechanic from Double Team. It can be used in any lane, preferably the bottom lane.

  • Muscle Band improves Greninja's attacks by dealing HP-based bonus damage.
  • Attack Weight provides Greninja a massive damage boost for both its attacks and moves, especially when fully stacked.
  • Focus Band improves Greninja's durability and gives it more healing on top of Water Shuriken.
  • X Attack gives Greninja more damage for faster knockouts.
  • The build's Boost Emblem loadout should consist of 6 Brown Emblems for more damage and 6 White Emblems for additional HP. This can be achieved by having at least two (2) Emblems that are both Brown and White.
  • Equip Emblems that improve Attack or Critical-Hit Rate to maximize Greninja's attack and move damage.
  • Sp. Atk. Sp. Def., and Defense can be freely traded for the other stats.

Ranged Build Damage and Healing Test

Items
(Level 30)
Standard Attack
(@ Lvl 15)
Standard Attack
(w/ Critical-Hit)
(@ Lvl 15)
Water Shuriken
Damage
(Total)
(@ Lvl 15)
Healing
(Per Hit)
(@ Lvl 15)
Muscle Band
+
Attack Weight
(6 Stacks)
925
1490
5420
179

Since the build is centered on Water Shuriken and ranged attacks, equipping items that increase the move's effectiveness and Greninja's ranged attacks is the ideal item combination. Focus Band is a staple item for the build, giving Greninja more sustain and durability.

As the results show, a Muscle Band and a fully-stacked Attack Weight will yield the best outcome for the build. Although the item combination did average in the critical-hit tests, it did score the highest in terms of Standard and Boosted Attacks, and Water Shuriken damage and healing.

For alternatives, replacing Attack Weight with Razor Claw would be the best option. The item combination produced the second best score in all tests and still deals a high amount of damage output.

However, should critical-hit become a factor, replacing Attack Weight with Scope Lens instead is the ideal choice.

The damage tests are conducted using the Training Dummy in Practice Mode. The results are taken from the Total Damage data.

The healing test results are taken from the green floating text above the Pokemon.

Items
(Level 30)
Standard Attack
(@ Lvl 15)
Boosted Attack
(@ Lvl 15)
Standard Attack
(w/ Critical-Hit)
(@ Lvl 15)
Boosted Attack
(w/ Critical-Hit)
(@ Lvl 15)
Muscle Band
+
Scope Lens
835
930
1723
1924
Muscle Band
+
Razor Claw
850
(1115
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
948
(1213
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
1340
(1605
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
1536
(1801
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
Muscle Band
+
Attack Weight
(6 Stacks)
925
1038
1490
1716
Razor Claw
+
Attack Weight
(6 Stacks)
565
(1605
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
678
(980
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
1130
(1605
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
1356
(1658
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
Scope Lens
+
Attack Weight
(6 Stacks)
550
660
1578
1811
Scope Lens
+
Razor Claw
475
(732
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
570
(827
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
1363
(1620
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
1564
(1821
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
Items
(Level 30)
Water Shuriken
Damage
(Total)
(@ Lvl 15)
Water Shuriken
Healing
(Per Hit)
(@ Lvl 15)
Muscle Band
+
Scope Lens
4815 160
Muscle Band
+
Razor Claw
4915 163
Muscle Band
+
Attack Weight
(6 Stacks)
5420 179
Razor Claw
+
Attack Weight
(6 Stacks)
5420 179
Scope Lens
+
Attack Weight
(6 Stacks)
5320 176
Scope Lens
+
Razor Claw
4815 160

The tests above does not use any Emblems yet so it will scale higher if equipped.

Assassin Build

Assassin Build
Moveset Held Items
Battle Item
Item Effects
(at Level 30)
Recommended Lane
Attack: +33
Critical-Hit Rate: +6%
Critical-Hit Damage: +12%
Attack Speed: +7.50%
Pokemon UNITE - Jungle Recommendation Yes Jungle
Emblem Color Combination Target Emblem Stats
Positive Stats:
Attack
Critical-Hit Rate
Free Negative Stats:
Sp. Atk
Defense
Sp. Def
Note:
The emblem color and stats here are suggestions only. The builds are still viable even without the suggested emblems.

Assassin Build Explanation

This build utilizes the instant knockout and cooldown reset mechanics from Surf to take out targets one by one and the stealth from Smokescreen to allow Greninja to sneak up on enemies. It's best used in the jungle to give Greninja an early level advantage.

  • Muscle Band improves Greninja's attacks by dealing HP-based bonus damage. It also synergizes well with the Pokemon's melee attacks.
  • Scope Lens makes Greninja's attacks deadlier by increasing its critical-hit rate and damage.
  • Attack Weight provides Greninja a massive damage boost for both its attacks and moves, especially when fully stacked.
  • However, Rapid-Fire Scarf can be a replacement for Attack Weight, giving Greninja a massive attack speed, particularly for its melee attacks.
  • X Attack gives Greninja more damage for faster knockouts.
  • The build's Boost Emblem loadout should consist of 6 Brown Emblems for maximum damage and 6 White Emblems for additional HP. This can be achieved by having at least two (2) Emblems that are both Brown and White.
  • Equip Emblems that improve Attack or Critical-Hit Rate to maximize Greninja's attack damage.
  • Sp. Atk. Sp. Def., and Defense can be freely traded for the other stats.

Assassin Build Damage Test

Items
(Level 30)
Standard Attack
(@ Lvl 15)
Boosted Attack
(@ Lvl 15)
Standard Attack
(w/ Critical-Hit)
(@ Lvl 15)
Boosted Attack
(w/ Critical-Hit)
(@ Lvl 15)
Muscle Band
+
Scope Lens
+
Attack Weight
(6 Stacks)
925
1038
1980
2364

Since the build relies bringing down a target's HP low enough for Surf to instantly knock it out, equipping items that enhances Greninja's attacks is the ideal item combination.

As the results show, Muscle Band, Scope Lens, and a fully-stacked Attack Weight will yield the best outcome. Although the item combination did not generate the highest Standard and Boosted Attack damage, its result is only slightly lower than the highest score but produced the best critical-hit results.

For alternatives, it will ultimately depend on whether a player prefers better Standard Attacks or better critical-hits.

For a build with better Standard Attacks, replacing Scope Lens with Razor Claw would be the best option. On the other hand, for a build with better critical-hits, replacing Attack Weight with Razor Claw would be the best choice.

These damage tests are conducted using the Training Dummy in Practice Mode. The results are taken from the Total Damage data.

Note:
The numbers in bold are the highest result for a specific test.
Items
(Level 30)
Standard Attack
(@ Lvl 15)
Boosted Attack
(@ Lvl 15)
Standard Attack
(w/ Critical-Hit)
(@ Lvl 15)
Boosted Attack
(w/ Critical-Hit)
(@ Lvl 15)
Muscle Band
+
Scope Lens
+
Attack Weight
(6 Stacks)
925
1038
1980
2364
Muscle Band
+
Scope Lens
+
Razor Claw
850
(1115
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
948
(1213
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
1765
(2030
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
1973
(2238
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
Muscle Band
+
Razor Claw
+
Attack Weight
(6 Stacks)
940
(1250
w/ Razor Claw
Effect)
1056
(1453
w/ Razor Claw
Effect)
1520
(1830
w/ Razor Claw
Effect)
1752
(2062
w/ Razor Claw
Effect)
Scope Lens
+
Razor Claw
+
Attack Weight
(6 Stacks)
565
(867
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
678
(980
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
1620
(1922
w/ Razor Claw Effect)
1860
(2162
w/ Razor Claw Effect)

The tests above does not use any Emblems yet so it will scale higher if equipped.

Greninja Best Items & Moveset

Best Held Items

Item Explanation
Attack Weight.pngAttack Weight Attack Weight provides a large damage boost for Greninja's attacks and moves. It can also improve Water Shuriken's healing.
Focus Band.pngFocus Band Focus Band increases Greninja's static defenses and is an effective survivability tool during fights.
Scope Lens.pngScope Lens Scope Lens improves Greninja's attack damage via critical-hits. It works well with Surf since critical-hits allow Greninja to quickly shred through an enemy's HP before executing it with the move.
Muscle Band.pngMuscle Band Muscle Band is a must-have item for Greninja, increasing its attack damage and attack speed. It's benefitial for Greninja since each attack reduces Water Shuriken's cooldown after using it.
Rapid-Fire Scarf.pngRapid-Fire Scarf Rapid-Fire Scarf gives Greninja a massive attack speed boost which goes well with its Boosted Attacks.
Charging Charm.pngCharging Charm Charging Charm provides Greninja mobility and burst damage, which suits the Pokemon's stealthy gameplay.

List of Held Items

Best Battle Items

Item Explanation
Full Heal.pngFull Heal Full Heal ensures Greninja's survivability through immunity, allowing it to ignore most disables in the game.
X Attack.pngX Attack X Attack gives Greninja a decent damage and attack speed boost for faster knockouts.

List of Battle Items

Best Moveset

Move Explanation
Water Shuriken ImageWater Shuriken Water Shuriken allows Greninja to burst down enemies in quick succession. It also gives it more sustainability because of the additional heal from each shuriken hit.
Double Team ImageDouble Team Double Team can confuse opponents while providing a quick escape from dangerous situations, as well as a great dash move that can deal incidental damage from the illusions it generates.

The combination of Water Shuriken and Double Team has a nice little interaction. The illusions generated from Double Team mimics Greninja's actions, including moves. Using Water Shuriken means your illusions also throws Water Shurikens, allowing you to deal incidental damage.

Greninja's effectiveness lies on how well you've mastered the Pokemon, not necessarily on which moveset you chose. Any move combination will do as long as you know how they work.

Which Moveset Do You Think is Best for Greninja?

Surf & Smokescreen 47
Votes
Surf & Double Team 20
Votes
Water Shuriken & Smokescreen 7
Votes
Water Shuriken & Double Team 140
Votes

Let us know why in the comments!

Previous Poll Result

Surf & Smokescreen 70
Votes
Surf & Double Team 48
Votes
Water Shuriken & Smokescreen 10
Votes
Water Shuriken & Double Team 159
Votes

How to Play Greninja

Jump to Section

Be Aware of Your Positioning

Positioning is everything when it comes to using Greninja effectively. Keeping aware of Greninja's position in relation to the opponents will help set up smoother KOs, and snowball the game in its team's favor.

Farm Safely Until Level 7

Greninja reaches its peak offensive potential at Level 7 when it learns Surf or Water Shuriken. Avoid engaging in team fights early on to focus on farming Wild Pokemon.

Take the Jungle for Safer and Faster Farm

The most efficient and safest way to get levels is by taking the jungler role. Greninja has enough mobility and damage to clear the jungle camps quickly.

Be Elusive

One of Greninja's moveset gives it its trademark elusiveness, allowing it to make clever plays. Although both moves are Dash moves, each has their use in specific scenarios.

Confuse Enemies with Double Team

The illusions created from Double Team mimics Greninja's actions in the game. If it uses Surf or Water Shuriken, the illusions will do the same. Use this unique mechanic to confuse enemies and force them to guess the real one.

Pokemon UNITE - Attention Icon.pngNote The illusions also deal small damage when they attack.

Double Team: Greninja Move Effect and Cooldown

Utilize the Stealth and Vision Obstruction from Smokescreen

Using Smokescreen turns Greninja invisible for a while and obstructs the vision of opponents who are caught inside it. Both effects are useful for surprising targets or getting close to them.

Smokescreen: Greninja Move Effect and Cooldown

Avoid Hindrances

Greninja gains the Unstoppable status effect for a short duration when it uses Double Team or Smokescreen, allowing it to become immune to hindrances for that time window. With proper timing, Greninja can completely avoid certain moves like Flare Blitz with this mechanic.

Switch Between Ranged and Melee Attacks

By default, Greninja is a ranged Pokemon, but if it attacks at close range, it performs melee attacks. Both attacks have special effects that give Greninja some flexibility. Switching between ranged and melee attacks is an important mechanic to utilize Greninja.

Use Ranged Attacks to Reduce Move Cooldowns

Greninja's ranged attacks reduce the cooldown of Bubble, Water Shuriken, or Surf. Use ranged attacks if Greninja's moves are still on cooldown to hasten the process and to chip away the targets' HP from a safe distance.

Use Melee Attacks to Finish Off Targets

Greninja's melee attacks deal increased damage the lower the target's HP is, allowing it to burst them down quickly. Use Double Team, Smokescreen, or Waterburst Shuriken to get close to your targets, then keep hitting them with melee attacks until they get knocked out.

Moreover, melee attacks are great for setting up Surf and triggering its cooldown reset.

Utilize Torrent

Greninja's passive ability, Torrent, increases its Attack and movement speed when its HP is at half or below. Greninja can turn things around even at low HP, but be extremely cautious as the Pokemon might just end up getting knocked out. Knowing when to continue fighting and to retreat is key to utilizing the ability.

Torrent: Greninja Ability Effect and Cooldown

Set the Tempo

As the team's carry, Greninja will be setting the tempo of the game depending on how active it is in the map. Greninja needs to be the one making plays for its team to allow for smoother transitions between each phase of the game.

Hunt Targets

Greninja excels in a 1v1 fights since due to its damage and trickery. Roam around the map and hunt targets if possible to give the team space and time to reach their power spikes.

Secure Objectives

Greninja should also focus on securing objectives like Regieleki for its team, whether it's taking them by itself or stealing them from enemies. Greninja can use Surf and/or Waterburst Shuriken to steal or secure objectives.

Steal Farm from the Enemy

If Greninja is not hunting targets or securing objectives, it should be stealing farm from the enemy, particularly in their jungle. Use Surf or Water Shuriken to farm wild Pokemon as fast as possible. If things go awry, use Smokescreen or Double Team to quickly escape.

Progression and Leveling Guide

Top or Bottom Lane Guide

Level 1 to 5

  • Secure as many Wild Pokemon as you can and get EXP to reach level 5.
  • Once at level 5, learn either Smoke Screen or Double Team.
  • Continue to farm wild Pokemon and level up, defend the lane, score points, and knock out opponents.

Level 6 to 9

  • Once at level 7, learn either Surf or Water Shuriken, and start to get aggressive.
  • Continue to farm wild Pokemon, defend the lane, score points, and knock out opponents to level up.
  • Help your allies secure Regieleki and/or Regice, Registeel, or Regirock.
  • Once at level 9, learn Waterburst Shuriken to get all moves.

Level 10+

  • Continue to farm and level up.
  • Stick with allies to defend or push lanes, secure objectives, and win teamfights.
  • Reach at least level 13 on or before Rayquaza spawns for a full-upgraded moveset.
  • Help your allies win a team fight and secure Rayquaza.
  • After securing Rayquaza, just score points to gain the score lead, then immediately return to base and just defend the remaining goal zones until the match ends.

Jungle Guide

Level 1 to 5

  • Clear the first wave of jungle camps and level up to level 5 with the help of Bubble and Substitute.
  • Once at level 5, learn either Smoke Screen or Double Team.
  • Help the top or bottom lane by securing the Altaria and Swablu camps, knocking out opponents, and scoring points.

Level 6 to 9

  • Clear the second wave of jungle camps to reach level 7 and get either Surf or Water Shuriken.
  • At the 8:00 minute mark, go to the center of the map and secure the Altaria and Swablu camps.
  • At the 7:20 minute mark, go to the bottom lane and help secure the Altaria and Swablu camps, knock out opponents, and score points.
  • Once at level 9, learn Waterburst Shuriken.
  • At the 7:00 minute mark, help allies secure Regice, Registeel, or Regirock.
  • Afterwards, try to secure Regieleki on the top lane if it's still there.

Level 10+

  • Stick with allies to defend or push lanes, secure objectives, and win teamfights.
  • Reach at least level 13 on or before Rayquaza spawns for a fully-upgraded moveset.
  • Help your allies win a team fight and secure Rayquaza.
  • After securing Rayquaza, just score points to gain the score lead, then immediately return to base and just defend the remaining goal zones until the match ends.

Greninja Combos

Early Pressure Combo

Early Pressure
Substitute IconBubble Icon
Pokemon UNITE - Greninja Substitute Block Combo
This is Greninja's early game combo great for maintaining distance while chipping away at the opponent's health. Start by using Substitute and disengaging from the fight. Then, use the cover provided by the substitute doll to attack with Bubble at a safe distance.

Double Team Combos

This set of combos takes advantage of the illusions generated by Double Team to deal extra damage. Since the illusions will imitate Greninja's actions, you will be able to duplicate your moves when you use them. The combos are great for bursting down single targets.

Hyper Surf Combo

Hyper Surf Combo
Double Team IconSurf IconStandard Attack Icon

Pokemon UNITE - Greninja Hyper Surf Combo
Double TeamSurfStandard Attack
Start with Double Team to close the distance on an opponent, then follow it up with a Surf. It's best to use this combo to finish off low health opponents in order to get the refresh for the Surf move.

Three-Point Shuriken Combo

Three-Point Shuriken Combo
Waterburst Shuriken IconDouble Team IconWater Shuriken Icon
Pokemon UNITE - Greninja Three-Point Shuriken Combo
Use Double Team to create illusions around the target. Then, use Water Shuriken, aiming at the target. You can add a few attacks afterwards to reduce Water Shuriken's cooldown.

Ultimate Combos

This set of combos uses Waterburst Shuriken to engage the fight and bring the target's HP low enough for your other moves to finish the combo.

Ultimate Double Team Burst Combo

Ultimate Double Team Burst Combo
Waterburst Shuriken IconDouble Team IconSurf Icon or Water Shuriken IconStandard Attack Icon ~
Pokemon UNITE - Greninja Ultimate Double Team Burst Combo
Waterburst ShurikenDouble TeamSurf or Water ShurikenStandard Attack ~
Start by engaging the target with Waterburst Shuriken. Then, activate Double Team to surround the target. Quickly activate either Surf or Water Shuriken to deal the finishing strikes.

Ultimate Shadow Strikes Burst Combo

Ultimate Shadow Strikes Burst Combo
Waterburst Shuriken IconSmokescreen IconSurf Icon or Water Shuriken IconStandard Attack Icon ~
Pokemon UNITE - Greninja Ultimate Shadow Strikes Burst Combo
SmokescreenStandard AttackWater ShurikenWaterburst Shuriken ~
Start by engaging the target with Waterburst Shuriken. Then, activate Surf disrupt the target's vision. Quickly activate either Surf or Water Shuriken to deal the finishing strikes.

Matchups & Counters for Greninja

Greninja Matchups

Hard Counter
ClefableDarkraiEspeonGengarMeowscaradaMetagrossZeraora
Fair Matchup
AbsolAegislashArmarougeAzumarillBlastoiseBlazikenBuzzwoleCeruledgeCinderaceCrustleDodrioDragapultDragoniteFalinksGoodraGreedentGyaradosHo-OhInteleonLaprasLeafeonLucarioMachampMamoswineMega Mewtwo XMega Mewtwo YMewMimikyuMiraidonPikachuPsyduckScizorSlowbroSnorlaxSylveonTalonflameTrevenantTsareenaTyranitarUmbreonUrshifuVenusaurWigglytuffZacianZoroark
Good Matchup
Alolan NinetalesChandelureCharizardComfeyCramorantDecidueyeDelphoxDuraludonEldegossGarchompGardevoirGlaceonHoopaMr. MimeSableye
Matchup Notes
Hard CounterHard Counter Even MatchupEven Matchup Easy MatchupEasy Matchup
1. The chart is based on our own experience playing Greninja.
2. Pokemon within each tier are unordered
3. Any Pokemon not shown here are still under investigation.

Hard Counter With Crowd Control or Burst Damage

Greninja relies on its high mobility moves to maneuver around opponents to get quick hits and eventually take them down with a Surf or Water Shuriken. Because of its low endurance, Greninja lethality drastically falls if it is unable to move or is quickly bursted down.

Best Counters

Pokemon Explanation
Gengar ImageGengar Rating: ★★★★★
• Can sneak up on Greninja using Phantom Ambush and burst it down quickly with Dream Eater and Shadow Ball or Sludge Bomb and Hex.
Espeon ImageEspeon Rating: ★★★★
• Can stun and burst down Greninja from range using Psyshock.
• Can determine the real Greninja when it uses Double Team with Future Sight.
• Can completely stop Greninja's assault using Psychic Solare.
Clefable ImageClefable Rating: ★★★
• Can prevent Greninja from using Smokescreen or Double Team with Gravity.
• Can outheal Greninja's damage using Moonlight.

Even Matchups for Greninja

Greninja can get the upper hand against these Pokemon by relying on stealth or deception to make it hard for opponents to target it.

Head Straight for Them Using Waterburst Shuriken

Ranged, Fragile Pokemon with High Damage
Armarouge Image Cinderace Image Dragapult Image Inteleon Image Mega Mewtwo Y Image Mew Image Miraidon Image Pikachu Image Sylveon Image Venusaur Image
How to Beat
• Much like Greninja, these Pokemon prefer to keep their distance from opponents when fighting. They also have high damage potential that can take out Greninja quickly. However, they are fragile and can get knocked out by Greninja fast.
• Head straight for them by initiating with Waterburst Shuriken to deplete their HP and force them to play defensively, then finish them off with Surf or Water Shuriken.
• Use Smokescreen or Double Team to dodge their attacks.

Use Smokescreen or Double Team and Kite Them

All-Rounders
Aegislash Image Azumarill Image Blaziken Image Buzzwole Image Ceruledge Image Falinks Image Gyarados Image Lucario Image Machamp Image Mega Mewtwo X Image Mimikyu Image Scizor Image Tsareena Image Tyranitar Image Urshifu Image Zacian Image
How to Beat
• These Pokemon excel in close combat and rely mostly on their attacks or combos to deal damage. They are also durable enough to tank Greninja's damage. However, they're melee and are susceptible to getting kited from range.
• Use Smokescreen or Double Team to dodge their attacks or combos and keep a safe distance from them, then kite them with ranged attacks and Water Shuriken, or kite them with ranged attacks first and finish them off with Surf.
• As a last resort, use Waterburst Shuriken to quickly deplete their HP before finishing them off.

Dodge Their Burst Damage, Then Retaliate

High-mobility Pokemon with Burst Damage
Absol Image Dodrio Image Leafeon Image Talonflame Image Zoroark Image
How to Beat
• These Pokemon are incredibly agile and deal high burst damage. However, they become vulnerable when they miss their burst damage attempt.
• Use Smokescreen or Double Team to dodge their moves, then retaliate with Water Shuriken and attacks, or quickly deplete their HP with attacks first and finish them off with Surf.
• Alternatively, Greninja can use Waterburst Shuriken after dodging their moves to quickly deplete their HP, then finish them off with Water Shuriken or Surf.

Take Them Out First

Supporters
Psyduck Image Wigglytuff Image
How to Beat
• These Pokemon usually stick with their allies and rarely venture alone. Although they themselves pose no threat to Greninja, their support capabilities makes them valuable during fights.
• It's best to take them out first by using Waterburst Shuriken at their location, then follow up with Water Shuriken, or finish them off with Surf.
• Use Smokescreen or Double Team to confuse them.

Group Up with Allies

Highly Durable Pokemon
Blastoise Image Crustle Image Goodra Image Greedent Image Ho-oh Image Lapras Image Mamoswine Image Slowbro Image Snorlax Image Trevenant Image Umbreon Image
How to Beat
• These Pokemon are extremely durable, making it difficult for Greninja to take them down alone. With that, it's best to group up with allies to bring them down with the help of Greninja.
• Help in bringing their HP down, then finish them off with Surf. Alternatively, just kite them from range using Water Shuriken and range attacks.

Easy Matchups for Greninja

These matchups are generally easy for Greninja to face as they little to no means of catching Greninja.

Head Straight for Them Using Waterburst Shuriken

Ranged, Fragile Pokemon with High Damage
Alolan Ninetales Image Cramorant Image Decidueye Image Delphox Image Duraludon Image Gardevoir Image Glaceon Image
How to Beat
• Much like Greninja, these Pokemon prefer to keep their distance from opponents when fighting. They also have high damage potential that can take out Greninja quickly. However, they are fragile and can get knocked out by Greninja fast.
• Head straight for them by initiating with Waterburst Shuriken to deplete their HP and force them to play defensively, then finish them off with Surf or Water Shuriken.
• Use Smokescreen or Double Team to dodge their attacks.

Use Smokescreen or Double Team and Kite Them

All-Rounders
Charizard Image Garchomp Image
How to Beat
• These Pokemon excel in close combat and rely mostly on their attacks or combos to deal damage. They are also durable enough to tank Greninja's damage. However, they're melee and are susceptible to getting kited from range.
• Use Smokescreen or Double Team to dodge their attacks or combos and keep a safe distance from them, then kite them with ranged attacks and Water Shuriken, or kite them with ranged attacks first and finish them off with Surf.
• As a last resort, use Waterburst Shuriken to quickly deplete their HP before finishing them off.

Take Them Out First

Supporters
Comfey Image Eldegoss Image Hoopa Image Mr. Mime Image Sableye Image
How to Beat
• These Pokemon usually stick with their allies and rarely venture alone. Although they themselves pose no threat to Greninja, their support capabilities makes them valuable during fights.
• It's best to take them out first by using Waterburst Shuriken at their location, then follow up with Water Shuriken, or finish them off with Surf.
• Use Smokescreen or Double Team to confuse them.

Best Teammates for Greninja

Pokemon Explanation
Alolan Ninetales ImageAlolan Ninetales
Gardevoir ImageGardevoir
Aggressive Stallers
These Pokemon have powerful burst attacks that are capable of disrupting enemies. When partnered up with these Pokemon, Greninja can easily take down enemies and push lanes.
Blissey ImageBlissey
Mr. Mime ImageMr. Mime
Sustain and Buffs
These Pokemon have means of stunning and shutting down targets with their moves. They also provide healing opportunities and buffs for Greninja so it can stand its ground and fight longer during clashes.
Crustle ImageCrustle
Snorlax ImageSnorlax
Tanky Disablers
These Pokemon can lead the charge, soak up damage, and help Greninja setup its attacks thanks to their disabling moves. This way, Greninja can easily dominate lanes and take enemy camps to stall the enemy's level progression.
Absol ImageAbsol
Zoroark ImageZoroark
High Burst Damagers
These Pokemon help contribute damage through pinning down enemies with combos and burst attacks. While it's still recommended to go with either a Defender or Supporter ally, Speedsters are a huge help when trying to dominate lanes as early as possible.
Machamp ImageMachamp
Tsareena ImageTsareena
Hard-hitting Initiators
These Pokemon are very dependable allies as they have means to buff or sustain themselves. Whether it's securing objectives or pushing lanes, Machamp and Tsareena are built to initiate clashes, stun enemies, and create openings for their teammates.

Looking for teammates to synergize with you? Head over to our Friend Request Board to find other trainers to join you in your grind or just to hang out with!

Friend Request Board

Greninja Moves

Move Slot 1 (R)

Bubble ImageBubble
(Lv. 1 or 3)
Move Type: Ranged
Damage Type: Physical
Cooldown: 9s
Starting Damage: 680
Damage per bubble: 340, Number of bubbles: 2
Final Damage: 840
Damage per bubble: 420, Number of bubbles: 2
Attacks with spray of bubbles, decreasing the movement speed of opposing Pokemon for a short time when it hits.
Surf ImageSurf
(Lv. 7)
Upgrade Lv. 11
Move Type: Melee
Damage Type: Physical
Cooldown: 9s
Starting Damage: 894
Final Damage: 1402
Has the user ride a wave, dealing damage to opposing Pokemon and restoring the user's HP. If this move knocks out an opposing Pokemon its cooldown is reset. This move deals increased damage to opposing Pokemon with low HP.
Upgrade: Increases the amount of HP restored.
Water Shuriken ImageWater Shuriken
(Lv. 7)
Upgrade Lv. 11
Move Type: Ranged
Damage Type: Physical
Cooldown: 6s
Starting Damage: 2316
Shuriken damage: 579, Number of Shurikens: 4, Heal per hit: 3% of Max HP
Final Damage: 4715
Shuriken damage: 943 , Number of Shurikens: 5, Heal per hit: 3% of Max HP
Throws shurikens made of water in quick succession. Decreases the movement speed of opposing Pokemon for a short time and restores the user's HP when it hits. Also increases the user's movement speed while using this move.
Upgrade: Increases the number of attacks for this move.

Move Slot 2 (ZR)

Substitute ImageSubstitute
(Lv. 1 or 3)
Move Type: Dash
Damage Type: Status
Cooldown: 8s
Starting Damage: N/A
Final Damage: N/A
Leaves behind the Substitute doll for the user while it's moving forward
Smokescreen ImageSmokescreen
(Lv. 5)
Upgrade Lv. 13
Move Type: Dash
Damage Type: Status
Cooldown: 13s
Starting Damage: N/A
Final Damage: N/A
Creates a smokescreen and has the user roll away from its current location. Immediately afterward, the user begins sneaking and has its movement speed increased for a short time. This also makes its next basic attack a boosted attack.
Upgrade: Increases Attack for a short time when the user stops sneaking.
Double Team ImageDouble Team
(Lv. 5)
Upgrade Lv. 13
Move Type: Dash
Damage Type: Physical
Cooldown: 8s
Starting Damage: N/A
Clones can deal damage
Final Damage: N/A
Clones can deal damage
Quickly moves the user away from the current position, creating illusory copies of them to aid in battle.
Upgrade: Reduces this move's cooldown.

Unite Moves (ZL)

Waterburst Shuriken ImageWaterburst Shuriken
(Lv. 9)
Move Type: Area
Damage Type: Physical
Cooldown: 134s
Starting Damage: 2738
Initial damage: 1369, Explosion damage: 1369
Final Damage: 3960
Initial damage: 1980, Explosion damage: 1980
Has the user throw a giant water shuriken toward the designated area, dealing damage to opposing Pokemon in the area of effect and decreasing their movement speed for a short time when this Unite Move hits. The water shuriken then immediately explodes, dealing damage to opposing Pokemon in the area of effect once again and throwing them. Once this Unite Move ends, the user may jump in a designated direction.

Standard Attack

Standard Attack Image Standard Attack At long range, reduces the cooldown Bubble, Water Shuriken, or Surf when it hits. At close range, deals increased damage the lower the opposing Pokemon's remaining HP is. Becomes a boosted attack every third attack. As a boosted attack at long range, deals increased damage to opposing Pokemon and decreases their movement speed for a short time. As a boosted attack at close range, deals more damage

Ability (Passive)

Torrent ImageTorrent All Evolution Stages
When the Pokemon is at half HP or less, its Attack and movement speed are increased.

Greninja Stats & Evolutions

Greninja Evolutions

1st Evolution 2nd Evolution Final Evolution
Froakie.pngFroakie
(Lv. 1)
Froakie.pngFrogadier
(Lv. 5)
Froakie.pngGreninja
(Lv. 7)

Greninja Stats

Level HP Defense Special Defense Attack Damage
1 3000 50 30 146
2 3031 53 32 151
3 3068 56 34 156
4 3112 60 36 162
5 3273 75 45 186
6 3337 81 49 195
7 3629 108 65 238
8 3721 117 70 252
9 3832 127 76 268
10 3965 139 83 287
11 4125 154 92 310
12 4316 172 103 338
13 4546 193 116 372
14 4821 219 131 412
15 5152 250 149 460

Attack Damage is the damage of the Basic Attack as tested against the Training Dummy.

Greninja In-Game Stat Listings

Offense Endurance Mobility Scoring Support
4 Stars.png 2 Stars.png 3 Stars.png 3 Stars.png 0.5 Stars.png

Greninja Skins (Holowear)

Holowear
GreninjaHero StyleHero Style
Zirco Trading:
Aeos Gems 1050
GreninjaFashionable StyleFashionable Style
Zirco Trading:
Aeos Gems 350 / Holowear Ticket 18
GreninjaTheater StyleTheater Style
GreninjaWanderer StyleWanderer Style
Zirco Trading:
Aeos Gems 2199
GreninjaPractice StylePractice Style
Zirco Trading:
Aeos Gems 1050
GreninjaCostume Party StyleCostume Party Style
Zirco Trading:
Aeos Gems 2199
GreninjaHoliday StyleHoliday Style
Zirco Trading:
Aeos Gems 400
GreninjaNeo Street StyleNeo Street Style

All Pokemon Skins (Holowear)

Greninja Character Spotlight

Greninja Achievements

Surf Achievement

Surf
Pokemon Move
Greninja ImageGreninja Surf ImageSurf
Mission:
In a single battle, knock out 3 or more Pokemon from the opposing team with Surf or Surf+ (5/10/20 battles total)
Medals & Points Rewards
Pokemon UNITE - Beginner Achievement Medal Beginner
Pokemon UNITE - Achievement Points.png 5
Aeos Ticket IconAeos Ticket x100
Pokemon UNITE - Expert Achievement Medal Expert
Pokemon UNITE - Achievement Points.png5
Aeos Coin IconAeos Coin x300
Pokemon UNITE - Master Achievement Medal.png Master
Pokemon UNITE - Achievement Points.png10
Holowear Ticket IconHolowear Ticket x3

List of Attacker Pokemon Achievements

Pokemon UNITE Related Guides

Pokemon Partial Banner

List of All Pokemon

All Pokemon Guides and Builds

Best Build for Each Pokemon

Pokemon Roster
Pokemon UNITE - AbsolAbsol Pokemon UNITE - Aegislash IconAegislash Pokemon UNITE - Alolan NinetalesAlolan Ninetales Pokemon UNITE - ArmarougeArmarougue
Pokemon UNITE - Azumarill IconAzumarill Pokemon UNITE - BlastoiseBlastoise Pokemon UNITE - Blaziken IconBlaziken Pokemon UNITE - BlisseyBlissey
Pokemon UNITE - Buzzwole IconBuzzwole Pokemon UNITE - Ceruledge IconCeruledge Pokemon UNITE - Chandelure IconChandelure Pokemon UNITE - CharizardCharizard
Pokemon UNITE - CinderaceCinderace Pokemon UNITE - Clefable IconClefable Pokemon UNITE - Comfey IconComfey Pokemon UNITE - CramorantCramorant
Pokemon UNITE - CrustleCrustle Pokemon UNITE - Darkrai Icon.pngDarkrai Pokemon UNITE - Decidueye IconDecidueye Pokemon UNITE - Delphox Icon Delphox
Pokemon UNITE - Dodrio Speedster IconDodrio Pokemon UNITE - Dragapult IconDragapult Pokemon UNITE - Dragonite IconDragonite Pokemon UNITE - Duraludon IconDuraludon
Pokemon UNITE - EldegossEldegoss Pokemon UNITE - Espeon IconEspeon Pokemon UNITE - Falinks Icon (All-Rounder).pngFalinks Pokemon UNITE - GarchompGarchomp
Pokemon UNITE - GardevoirGardevoir Pokemon UNITE - GengarGengar Pokemon UNITE - Glaceon IconGlaceon Pokemon UNITE - Goodra IconGoodra
Pokemon UNITE - GreedentGreedent Pokemon UNITE - GreninjaGreninja Pokemon UNITE - Gyarados Icon.pngGyarados Pokemon UNITE - Ho-Oh IconHo-Oh
Pokemon UNITE - Hoopa IconHoopa Pokemon UNITE - Inteleon IconInteleon Pokemon UNITE - Lapras IconLapras Pokemon UNITE - Leafeon IconLeafeon
Pokemon UNITE - LucarioLucario Pokemon UNITE - MachampMachamp Pokemon UNITE - MamoswineMamoswine Pokemon UNITE - Mega Mewtwo XMega Mewtwo X
Pokemon UNITE - Mega Mewtwo YMega Mewtwo Y Pokemon UNITE - MeowscaradaMeowscarada Pokemon UNITE - Metagross IconMetagross Pokemon UNITE - Mew IconMew
Pokemon UNITE - Mimikyu IconMimikyu Pokemon UNITE - Miraidon IconMiraidon Pokemon UNITE - Mr. MimeMr. Mime Pokemon UNITE - PikachuPikachu
Pokemon UNITE - PsyduckPsyduck Pokemon UNITE - Sableye IconSableye Pokemon UNITE - Scizor IconScizor Pokemon UNITE - SlowbroSlowbro
Pokemon UNITE - SnorlaxSnorlax Pokemon UNITE - SylveonSylveon Pokemon UNITE - TalonflameTalonflame Pokemon UNITE - Tsareena IconTsareena
Pokemon UNITE - Tyranitar IconTyranitar Pokemon UNITE - Umbreon IconUmbreon Pokemon UNITE - Trevenant IconTrevenant Pokemon UNITE - Urshifu IconUrshifu
Pokemon UNITE - WigglytuffWigglytuff Pokemon UNITE - VenusaurVenusaur Pokemon UNITE - ZeraoraZeraora Pokemon UNITE - ZoroarkZoroark

Upcoming Pokemon

Upcoming Pokemon
Pokemon UNITE - Tinkaton Icon (No Role).pngTinkaton
(December 12, 2024)

Upcoming and New Pokemon

Pokemon by Role

All Pokemon Roles
Attacker IconAttackers All-Rounder IconAll-Rounders Defender IconDefenders
Speedster IconSpeedsters Supporter IconSupporters

Pokemon by Characteristics

Attack Type
Pokemon UNITE - Melee Type Partial BannerMelee Pokemon Pokemon UNITE - Ranged Type Partial BannerRanged Pokemon
Pokemon UNITE - Physical Type Partial BannerPhysical Pokemon Pokemon UNITE - Special Type Partial BannerSpecial Pokemon
Stat Rankings
Pokemon UNITE - HP Ranking Partial BannerHP Ranking Pokemon UNITE - Defense Ranking Partial BannerDefense Ranking
Pokemon UNITE - Special Defense Ranking Partial BannerSp. Def. Ranking Pokemon UNITE - Basic Attack Ranking Partial BannerBasic Attack Ranking

Comment

87 Anonymous8 days

water shuriken and smokescreen is worse than surf and double team cuz water shuriken is not rapid fire and deals less damage than surf, and double team gives you two bot clones that fight with you for like 3 secs but it's still enough to get ko's, unlike smokescreen

86 Blueyedevil63 months

Surf and double team is best. Water Shuriken does more damage than surf, but the double team clones use the other ability, making it difficult for the enemy team to know which is a clone and which is you. Nothing like a charizard using its unite skill on your clone.

Author

    Walkthrough Menu

    Please participate in our
    site improvement survey 12/2024
    Would you assist in
    improving Game8's site?
    ×
    This survey will take about 1 minute.
    Your answers will help us to improve our website.
    We are listening to our users' valuable opinions and discussing how to act on them.
    The information collected through this survey will be used for the purpose of improving our services. In addition, the information will only be disclosed a part of a statistic in a format that will not allow identification of personal information.
    Begin Survey

    All rights reserved