How to Raise Pokémon: Axew

Presenting Axew. One of the most, if not the most, cool fifth generation Pokémon. When Axew evolves he becomes a dinosaur with axes for a face. I don't care how impractical that is for fighting/living, it's freaking awesome.




Where/How do I get Axew?


Axew can be found in Mistralton Cave on Route 6. There's a 20% chance of Axew appearing when you run into a wild pokémon, so it shouldn't take very long to find one. They're level 30-31 when found.

Is Axew good?

All around strength-wise, he's not Dragonite or anything, but dang if he isn't trying. Axew, once reaching his final evolution, will possess some of the highest attack out of any pokemon in the game. Note: that includes legendaries. 


Axew also has access to wicked strong attacks as soon as he is captured, and as he levels up receives some endlessly useful stat boosting moves. Axew even gets a One-Hit KO move in the form of guillotine. Ho-ly-crap. 



When/How does Axew evolve?


Axew will evolve into Fraxure at level 38. Fraxure then evolves into Haxorus at level 48. This way you'll have your ax-faced dinosaur at full power just in time to have him powerhouse through the final boss. 


Hey Hydreigon fanboys, how does it feel to not have your favorite pokémon until the game is already over?


What moves should I teach Axew?


Typically you should teach Axew one dragon type attack. One ground type attack so Axew can hit steel types. One stat-boosting move. And either another damaging attack, or a more utility move like False Swipe or Taunt.


And just a quick tip: do not under any circumstances teach Axew a special attack. His special attack stat is abysmal. Just stick to physical attacks please.


What you should teach Axew:
Slot 1: (Level 16*) Scary Face  > (Level 32) Dragon Dance/(TM) Swords Dance
Slot 2: (Level 20*) Slash > (TM) Dig/Earthquake
Slot 3: (Level 24*) False Swipe/(Level 36) Taunt/(Level 58) Guillotine
Slot 4: (Level 28*) Dragon Claw/(Level 66) Outrage


* Default move when captured.




In Closing


Axew is just an all around kick butt pokémon. You don't get him until you're about halfway through the game. And by the time he's a Haxorus, the game will almost be over. But if you take the time to raise axew up to Haxorus, you will be well rewarded.