Poliwag: The Tadpole Pokémon – Complete Biography, Stats, Evolution, Lore, and Trading Card Details

Poliwag, known as the Tadpole Pokémon, is an iconic Water-type Pokémon that has charmed generations of Pokémon fans since its debut in the original games. With its distinctive spiral belly and endearing personality, Poliwag holds a special place in both competitive battling and Pokémon lore. Whether you’re seeking Poliwag stats, details about Poliwag evolution, or insight into its appearances in the Pokémon trading card game, this comprehensive biography will cover everything you need to know about Poliwag.

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Pokédex Profile

• Pokédex Number: #060
• Type: Water
• Category: Tadpole Pokémon
• Height: 0.6 m (2'0")
• Weight: 12.4 kg (27.3 lbs)

Poliwag is instantly recognizable by its round, blue body, large eyes, and signature white belly marked with a black spiral. This spiral is actually its internal organs, visible through its semi-transparent skin, a unique trait highlighted in several Pokédex entries. Poliwag’s tail allows it to swim swiftly, making it a nimble Water-type Pokémon in both the wild and battle.

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Poliwag Stats

Poliwag’s base stats make it a well-balanced Pokémon for early-game water-type needs:

• HP: 40
• Attack: 50
• Defense: 40
• Special Attack: 40
• Special Defense: 40
• Speed: 90

Poliwag’s standout stat is its impressive Speed, allowing it to outspeed many early-game threats. This makes it an ideal Pokémon for trainers who value quick, hit-and-run tactics. While its defenses are low, Poliwag can learn moves like Hypnosis and Water Gun early on, giving it utility in battle beyond just offense.

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Poliwag Evolution Chain

Understanding the Poliwag evolution process is key for trainers aiming to unlock its full potential. Poliwag evolves into Poliwhirl starting at level 25, and then can take one of two evolutionary paths:

• Poliwag (Level 25) → Poliwhirl
  • Poliwhirl + Water Stone → Poliwrath (Water/Fighting Type)
  • Poliwhirl + King's Rock (Trade) → Politoed (Water Type; introduced in Generation II)

For the classic evolution chain, Poliwag becomes Poliwhirl and then, via Water Stone, evolves into Poliwrath. Poliwrath gains the Fighting type, expanding its movepool and strategic options in battle. This evolutionary flexibility contributes to Poliwag’s enduring popularity.

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Poliwag Lore and Origins

Poliwag lore is as fascinating as its appearance. According to various Pokédex entries, Poliwag’s thin, see-through skin is both a source of vulnerability and a biological marvel. The visible spiral on its stomach is actually its intestines, a detail inspired by real-life tadpoles. Poliwag’s tail is said to be thin and flexible, allowing it to swim powerfully against currents in lakes and rivers. When threatened, Poliwag can use its tail to escape predators with rapid, darting movements.

Poliwag’s evolution into Poliwhirl and then Poliwrath or Politoed mirrors a tadpole’s transformation into a frog, further rooting its design in nature. This real-world connection is a testament to the Pokémon franchise’s thoughtful creature designs.

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Poliwag in the Pokémon Trading Card Game

Poliwag has been featured in numerous Pokémon trading card expansions since the franchise’s inception. As a basic Water-type Pokémon card, Poliwag can be found in classic sets like Base Set, as well as modern expansions. Its cards often feature moves such as Water Gun, Bubble, and Hypnosis, reflecting its in-game abilities.

Collectors value early Poliwag cards for their nostalgic artwork and simple, beginner-friendly mechanics. Holographic and promotional Poliwag trading cards are especially sought after, making Poliwag a perennial favorite among both new and veteran players of the Pokémon TCG.

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Fun Facts and Trivia

• Poliwag was one of the original 151 Pokémon, debuting in Pokémon Red and Blue.
• Its Japanese name is ニョロモ (Nyoromo).
• Poliwag’s spiral pattern has been referenced in merchandise and anime appearances.
• In the anime, Misty, one of Ash’s traveling companions, famously owned a Poliwag that later evolved into Poliwhirl.

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Conclusion

Poliwag is more than just an early-game Water-type; it’s a beloved Pokémon with deep roots in both Pokémon lore and gameplay. From its unique biological design and impressive Speed stat to its versatile evolution chain and memorable trading card appearances, Poliwag continues to captivate fans. Whether you’re a collector, a battler, or a lover of Pokémon history, Poliwag’s enduring appeal is undeniable.

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