Mankey: The Complete Guide to Pokémon’s Tempestuous Primate

When it comes to memorable Fighting-type Pokémon, few are as iconic or as fiery as Mankey. Known for its explosive temper and boundless energy, Mankey has been a fan favorite since its debut in the original Pokémon Red and Blue games. This comprehensive biography delves into Mankey’s lore, stats, evolution, and even its presence in the Pokémon Trading Card Game, making it your go-to resource for all things Mankey.

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Mankey at a Glance

• Pokédex Number: #56
• Type: Fighting
• Evolution Chain: Mankey → Primeape → Annihilape

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Mankey Lore: The Furious Monkey Pokémon

Mankey, known as the “Pig Monkey Pokémon,” is renowned for its wild nature and sudden outbursts. According to Pokémon lore, Mankey lives in groups in treetops and mountainous regions. Its anger is legendary—once Mankey’s rage is triggered, it will rampage until it tires itself out. This unpredictable temperament makes Mankey both a challenging and exciting companion for trainers.

Mankey has appeared in various Pokémon media, including the anime, where its penchant for mischief and theft (notably Ash’s hat!) has made it an unforgettable character. The lore emphasizes its loyalty to its troop and its relentless fighting spirit, which is reflected in both its moveset and its battle prowess.

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Mankey Evolution: From Mankey to Primeape to Annihilape

Mankey’s evolution chain is a testament to its growing power and anger management issues:

1. Mankey (#56): The base form, small and agile, known for its high energy and quick strikes.
2. Primeape (#57): Evolves from Mankey at level 28. Primeape’s rage becomes even more intense, and its physical strength is greatly enhanced.
3. Annihilape (Paldea Region): A new evolution introduced in Generation IX. Primeape evolves into Annihilape when it uses the move Rage Fist 20 times and then levels up, unlocking a ghostly, even fiercer form that combines its fighting spirit with spectral energy.

The Mankey evolution line is unique for its consistent focus on rage and power, culminating in Annihilape’s chilling lore and devastating attacks.

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Mankey Stats and Battle Performance

Mankey is a pure Fighting-type Pokémon, specializing in speed and attack. Here are its base stats:

• HP: 40
• Attack: 80
• Defense: 35
• Special Attack: 35
• Special Defense: 45
• Speed: 70

These stats make Mankey an excellent choice for trainers seeking a fast, hard-hitting Pokémon. Its high speed allows it to strike first, and its access to powerful Fighting-type moves such as Karate Chop, Low Kick, and Cross Chop make it a threat to many opponents, especially Normal, Rock, Steel, Ice, and Dark types.

With the right training and moveset, Mankey can be a formidable contender in both in-game battles and competitive play. Its abilities, such as Vital Spirit (preventing sleep) and Anger Point (maximizing Attack after a critical hit), further complement its aggressive play style.

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Mankey in the Pokémon Trading Card Game

Mankey has been featured in numerous sets of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Its cards often emphasize its quick attacks and disruptive abilities. Notable Mankey trading cards include appearances in sets like Base Set 2, Jungle, and more recent expansions, each showcasing Mankey’s unpredictable nature and affinity for quick, hard-hitting moves.

Collectors value Mankey trading cards for their nostalgic artwork and for their role in early TCG strategies, where Mankey’s speed and signature moves often caught opponents off guard.

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Fun Facts About Mankey

• Mankey’s name is a portmanteau of “monkey” and “mad,” reflecting its species and short temper.
• In the anime, Mankey famously stole Ash’s hat, kickstarting one of the most memorable chase sequences in Pokémon history.
• Mankey’s evolutionary line is one of the few to receive a new evolution (Annihilape) in a later generation, keeping it relevant for new and old fans alike.

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Conclusion

From its first appearance as Pokédex #56, Mankey has embodied the spirit of the Fighting-type Pokémon: energetic, unpredictable, and fiercely loyal. Whether you’re interested in its stats for battle, its unique evolution into Primeape and Annihilape, or collecting its trading cards, Mankey remains a staple of Pokémon lore. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its compelling design and the excitement it brings to every Pokémon adventure.

For trainers and collectors alike, Mankey is more than just another Fighting-type—it’s a symbol of unbridled energy and the wild heart of the Pokémon world.