This chapter is all about Pikachu's antithesis: Sandshrew! The only reason I say that is because they're both mouse-like Pokémon who are back to back in the Pokédex with opposing types. And they're both cute! What isn't there to love? 

So, let's get into this chapter!

(Also, please note: I will only be evaluating the common Sandshrew in this chapter, not the Alolan Sandshew. Therefore, don't expect any consideration of the Alolan form in this chapter!)

Type Factor: 

Sandshrew is a pure ground type. This makes evaluating type advantages and disadvantages pretty simple! As a ground type, it is immune to electric type moves. Likewise, it has a defensive advantage over poison and rock type moves. 

As for offensive advantages, ground type moves are useful against fire, electric, poison, rock, and steel types. That's quite a lot of offensive advantages! Overall, Sandshrew's type is a pretty decent one!

Design Factor: 

I. Love. Sandshrew. 

It's just so cute! It's got a pudgy little body, adorably stubby legs, and teeny-tiny tubby arms, how could I now think it's cute? And don't forget those big eyes! 

When it evolves into Sandslash, some of that cuteness goes away, but I think that's only natural. The adorable factor moves to the background a bit as a more cool, tough image comes to the front and center. 

Both evolutions have interesting and loveable appearances, so I'd say that this evolutionary line gets a 10/10 when it comes to the design factor!

Lore Factor: 

Sandshrew is fairly well-known for rolling up into a ball when in any sort of danger—and not in a passive way. When this Pokémon rolls into a ball, you better look out: it's gearing up to attack! The Pokémon can attack or defend itself by curling up, and when it evolves into Sandslash, the spikes on its back only add to this strategy!

Stats Factor: 

Sandslash's base stats are not terribly impressive, but they're not terrible, either. The total base stats closely mirroring Pokémon like Chansey, Venomoth, and Seaking. The highest stat is its defense followed shortly by its attack, while the weakest stat is its special attack. 

So, pay attention to what moves you teach your Sandslash, because special attacks might not suit it very well!

Evolutionary Factor: 

Personally, I find Sandshrew's evolutionary line to be an excellent one! Even if it's not the strongest competitor on the field, I enjoy the design and the change from one stage to the next enough to overlook any weaknesses. In my opinion, Sandshrew's evolutionary line is a total hit!

Conclusion: 

To sum everything up, Sandshrew is an adorable and cool evolutionary line with some interesting lore and decent stats. Overall, this Pokémon is a great addition to anyone's team!

To my fellow researchers: 

What are your thoughts on Sandshrew as a ground type? Does it match up to other ground types, or does it fall behind in some areas? Let me know in the comments!