Ekans! It's a snake! 

This Pokémon might get a bit of a bad reputation for being a common part of Team Rocket, but I don't think Ekans deserves that. Ekans is a cool-looking Pokémon, especially when it evolves, and I think it would make a great addition to anyone's team.

Type Factor: 

Ekans is a pure poison type. Or should I say impure? You know, because it's poison? 

This means that Ekans is weak to ground and psychic moves, but holds an advantage over grass types (as fairy types have not been introduced, yet). In all honesty, there isn't much to be said about Ekans's typing. It's fairly straight forward, in my opinion. 

The only downside that I can foresee is that Ekans doesn't have many natural type advantages. However, if Ekans's trainer is smart and diversifies their move set, then Ekans will be able to have more effective attacks!

Design Factor: 

Let's be honest: Ekans design is cool, but Arbok's design is a total beast! The designs on Arbok's belly are intimidating in the best way. Whether or not you want to build a super scary team or a super cool team, Ekans and Arbok are an absolute must!

Lore Factor: 

So, looking at the lore factor... Ekans's Pokédex entry alludes to a lot of snake-like behavior (not surprising), such as swallowing prey whole and slithering through grasslands. Other than that, there isn't all that much to be found, here. 

But when we get to Arbok's Pokédex entry, the story changes. Arbok's Pokédex information has a lot of interesting tidbits to mine out! For instance, the patterns on Arbok's belly aren't just for show; they help to immobilize prey. Once the prey is stunned, Arbok can constrict around them with enough power to flatten steel oil drums! Talk about strength! 

Likewise, the belly patterns vary between different Arbok depending on where they live, as six different variations have been discovered. In my opinion, this Pokédex entry is fascinating! It shows that the design of the Pokémon is meant to do more than look cool; it's meant to be used and to show where that particular Arbok comes from!

Stats Factor: 

Admittedly, I wasn't super impressed by Arbok's base stats. For such an intimidating looking Pokémon that can apparently crush metal, I thought that at least the attack stat would be high. This is not to say that Arbok is weak, as all stats can be raised or altered through items or different natures, but on a base stat level, Arbok could use some work. 

Regardless, Arbok's highest stat is its attack while the lowest is HP. In my opinion, HP can be one of the easiest fixes, yet one of the most annoying weaknesses to have. Although there are plenty of held items that can help buffer a lower HP stat, one critical hit could be enough to finish the match, rendering that item useless. As always, it's all about balance and planning ahead!

Evolutionary Factor: 

Now, as for my thoughts on the evolutionary line as a whole... 

Amazing! 

Seriously, Ekans and Arbok are super cool! I remember being a kid and wishing I could have one on my team all of the time. Their design is cool even if there are other areas with a bit of lackluster, and the change from Ekans to Arbok is super interesting while still maintaining its base form. Overall, I think this Pokémon's evolutionary change is awesome!

Conclusion: 

To wrap this chapter up, the Ekans line is one that is as cool as a cucumber while still having weaknesses to be patched up. Even if Ekans needs some supplemental help, that doesn't mean it should be disregarded from your team! All Pokémon need a little help now and then, so if you're a good trainer who cares for their Pokémon, you'll be able to make Ekans shine! 

To my fellow researchers: 

Have any of you ever used Ekans or Arbok in battle? If so, what was your experience with this Pokémon? Share in the comments!