Onix: The Complete Pokémon Biography—Stats, Evolution, Lore, and Trading Card Insights

Onix, the Rock Snake Pokémon, is an iconic figure in the Pokémon universe, recognized instantly by its serpentine body made entirely of boulders. With its intimidating appearance and unique evolutionary path, Onix stands out as one of the most memorable creatures from the original Pokémon games. This comprehensive biography covers everything you need to know about Onix, including its Pokédex number (#95), type, stats, evolution, lore, and even its presence in the Pokémon trading card game.

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Pokédex Number and Typing

Onix is officially registered as Pokédex #95. It is a Rock and Ground-type Pokémon, a combination that gives it both strengths and weaknesses in battle. As a Rock/Ground-type, Onix is immune to Electric-type attacks and highly resistant to Poison and Normal-type moves. However, it is notably vulnerable to Water, Ice, Grass, Steel, Fighting, and Ground-type attacks.

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Onix Stats: Strengths and Weaknesses

Understanding Onix stats is crucial for trainers seeking to maximize its combat potential. In the mainline Pokémon games, Onix’s base stats are as follows:

• HP: 35
• Attack: 45
• Defense: 160
• Special Attack: 30
• Special Defense: 45
• Speed: 70

Onix’s standout stat is its incredible Defense, making it one of the most physically resilient Pokémon in the Kanto region. However, its low HP and lackluster Attack and Special Defense mean Onix is best utilized as a defensive wall rather than an offensive powerhouse.

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Onix Evolution: From Rock Snake to Steelix

The Onix evolution path is both unique and powerful. Onix itself does not evolve by leveling up; instead, it requires a special method:

• Onix evolves into Steelix when traded while holding a Metal Coat.

Steelix, the Iron Snake Pokémon, retains Onix’s serpentine form but gains a Steel typing, becoming a Steel/Ground-type Pokémon. This evolution not only boosts its stats significantly but also gives it new resistances and access to a broader move pool, making Steelix a popular choice in competitive battles.

Evolution Chain:

• Onix (#95) → (Trade while holding Metal Coat) → Steelix

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Onix Lore: Origins and In-Game Appearances

Onix is renowned for its massive, rock-based body, which can reach up to 28 feet in length. According to Pokémon lore, Onix tunnels through the earth at high speeds, twisting and turning underground. This behavior is so vigorous that it leaves behind winding tunnels, which Diglett and other subterranean Pokémon often inhabit.

Pokédex entries often highlight Onix's unique physiology—its body hardens over time, eventually crystallizing into diamond-like hardness as it ages. This lore supports the evolutionary transition into Steelix, whose body is said to be even harder than diamonds.

Onix has made numerous memorable appearances throughout the Pokémon anime and games. Most famously, Brock, the Pewter City Gym Leader, uses an Onix as his signature Pokémon in the original Pokémon Red and Blue games. Onix also appears in various caves and mountainous regions throughout the Pokémon series, making it a familiar challenge for trainers exploring these rugged terrains.

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Onix Trading Card: Collectible and Competitive Value

The Onix trading card has been a staple since the earliest days of the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG). Onix debuted in the Base Set, where its high HP and defensive moves made it a reliable wall in early TCG decks. Over the years, Onix has appeared in many expansions, including Neo Genesis, Hidden Fates, and Champion’s Path, each with unique artwork and movesets.

Collectors value Onix trading cards for their nostalgia and artwork, while competitive players may utilize certain Onix cards in specific deck strategies, especially those that focus on stalling or defensive plays.

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Why Onix is a Pokémon Icon

Onix continues to capture the imagination of fans worldwide thanks to its distinctive design, challenging gameplay encounters, and rich lore. Its evolution into Steelix adds strategic depth to its use in battle, while its presence in the anime and trading card game ensures it remains a consistent favorite among new and veteran trainers alike.

Whether you're interested in Onix stats, mastering its evolution, exploring its Pokémon lore, or collecting the Onix trading card, this Rock/Ground-type Pokémon offers a wealth of history and strategic possibilities. As Pokédex #95, Onix is a testament to the enduring appeal and creativity of the Pokémon universe.