steelix
Generation II · #0208 — Iron Snake Pokémon
Steelix, known as the Iron Snake Pokémon, is a Steel/Ground-type Pokémon introduced in Generation II that represents the evolved form of Onix. As National Pokédex entry #208, Steelix stands as a dramatic transformation of its serpentine predecessor, having undergone a remarkable metamorphosis through the accumulation of iron minerals within its body. This evolution occurs when an Onix is traded while holding a Metal Coat, triggering the internal crystallization process that hardens its rocky exterior into gleaming metallic segments. At 9.2 meters in length and weighing a substantial 400 kilograms, Steelix is considerably more massive than its pre-evolved form, though it sacrifices some of Onix's speed and agility in exchange for overwhelming defensive capabilities. The Pokémon's design reflects its subterranean nature and mineral composition, making it a formidable presence in both competitive battle and the world of Pokémon lore.
Base Stats
Height
9.2m
Weight
400.0kg
Category
Iron Snake Pokémon
Gender
Male 50% / Female 50%
Color
gray
Shape
squiggle
Habitat
cave
Abilities
Protects against recoil damage.
Prevents being KOed from full HP, leaving 1 HP instead. Protects against the one-hit KO moves regardless of HP.
Strengthens moves with extra effects to 1.3× their power, but prevents their extra effects.
Steelix Biology & Physical Characteristics
Steelix possesses a segmented, serpentine body composed of rock-like metallic sections that gleam with a silvery-gray sheen, quite distinct from Onix's duller stone composition. The transformation that creates Steelix is thought to occur when an Onix accumulates iron over decades, with some ancient Pokédex entries suggesting that specimens living over 100 years develop a diamond-like composition that rivals the hardness of actual diamonds. Its massive head dominates its front end, featuring an enormous, wide jaw lined with large square teeth capable of grinding through solid rock and ore deposits. Three prominent sections along its body sport long, sharp spikes extending outward on both sides, serving as both defensive weapons and tools for excavation. The metallic plating that covers Steelix's body reflects bright light exceptionally well, with the many small metal particles creating a lustrous surface that distinguishes it from its rocky ancestor. Its enormous body mass—nearly nine times heavier than Onix—is distributed throughout its lengthy frame, allowing it to move through underground tunnels despite its reduced speed compared to its pre-evolved form.
Pokedex Numbers
Training
Breeding
Steelix Breeding, Gender Ratio & Egg Groups
Steelix exhibits a perfectly balanced gender ratio of 50 percent male to 50 percent female, allowing for equal breeding opportunities regardless of which parent carries the Metal Coat evolution item. The species belongs to the Mineral Egg Group, a classification that reflects its inorganic, crystalline nature despite being a living Pokémon; this limits breeding compatibility to other Mineral Group members and Ditto. The base friendship value of 70 indicates that Steelix develops relatively strong bonds with trainers who treat them well, responding positively to affection and care though not reaching the extreme loyalty of some other species. Breeding cycles require 25 cycles to hatch, translating to approximately 6,169 to 6,425 steps in-game—a moderate incubation period that reflects the Pokémon's substantial physical mass. The egg group classification limits natural Steelix breeding somewhat compared to more common groups, as trainers must specifically use compatible parents or Ditto to produce Steelix eggs, though the Mineral classification does provide access to several other interesting Pokémon for strategic breeding purposes. This breeding mechanic adds a layer of collectibility and breeding strategy for competitive players seeking optimal Steelix specimens with ideal natures, individual values, and egg move combinations.
Held Items
Sprites
Held Items
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
metal-coat
type-enhancement
Held: Steel-Type moves from holder do 20% more damage.
Cost: 2000
TMs & HMs
tm01
lets go pikachu lets go eevee
tm02
crystal
tm02
gold silver
tm02
lets go pikachu lets go eevee
tm03
crystal
tm03
gold silver
tm04
gold silver
tm04
crystal
tm05
ruby sapphire
tm05
emerald
tm05
gold silver
tm05
crystal
tm05
diamond pearl
tm05
black white
tm05
platinum
tm05
heartgold soulsilver
tm05
firered leafgreen
tm05
black 2 white 2
tm05
omega ruby alpha sapphire
tm05
x y
+699 more TMs/HMs
Gender Differences
This Pokémon has visible differences between male and female forms.
steelix's Evolution Chain
Steelix Evolution, Mega Evolution & Special Forms
Steelix evolves from Onix through a specialized trade mechanic requiring a Metal Coat item, reflecting the game's emphasis on connection and item-based evolution mechanics introduced in Generation II. The evolution process represents the culmination of an Onix's long life, as ancient Pokédex entries suggest that some specimens undergo this transformation after living over a century, their rocky bodies gradually metamorphosing into crystalline, diamond-like structures through mineral accumulation. Beyond its standard evolution, Steelix gained access to Mega Evolution through the Steelixite mega stone, introduced in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. Mega Steelix undergoes a dramatic transformation, increasing its height to 10.5 meters and its weight to an extraordinary 740 kilograms, making it nearly twice as heavy as its base form. The Mega Evolution grants Steelix the Sand Force ability, replacing its standard Rock Head or Sturdy abilities, which amplifies the power of Ground, Rock, and Steel-type moves by 30 percent when sandstorm conditions are active—a significant competitive advantage in battle. Mega Steelix's stat distribution shifts dramatically, with its Attack increasing from 85 to 125 and its Defense jumping from 200 to an impressive 230, making it an even more formidable defensive wall while gaining meaningful offensive capability.
Where to Find
snowpoint temple
sinnoh
+27 more
iron island
sinnoh
+12 more
sinnoh victory road
sinnoh
+20 more
mt silver
johto
johto route 47
johto
+1 more
twist mountain
unova
+1 more
iron room
unova
+1 more
glacier room
unova
+1 more
clay tunnel
unova
+1 more
underground ruins
unova
+1 more
rocky mountain room
unova
+1 more
Steelix Behaviour and Natural Habitat
Steelix inhabits depths far greater than its predecessor Onix, with documented records indicating that specimens have reached tunneling depths exceeding six-tenths of a mile underground as they relentlessly dig toward the Earth's core. These creatures are driven by an almost obsessive geological compulsion, consuming soil and minerals constantly, which contributes to the iron accumulation that sustains their steel-like composition. The Pokémon's preferred environment consists of deep underground caverns, mineral-rich deposits, and areas where iron ore concentrations are highest, making caves and mountain interiors prime habitats. Unlike Onix, which patrols shallower rock formations, Steelix represents the ultimate subterranean specialist, preferring isolation in the darkest depths where pressure and mineral density are greatest. The species exhibits territorial behavior, defending extensive tunnel networks against intruders, though they generally avoid confrontation unless their domains are threatened. Their burrowing creates distinctive tunnel systems that inadvertently provide passageways for other Pokémon species and occasionally affect the geological landscape of entire regions.
Pokedex Entries
Its body has been compressed deep under the ground. As a result, it is even harder than a diamond.
It is said that if an ONIX lives for over 100 years, its composition changes to become diamond-like.
The many small metal particles that cover this POKéMON's body reflect bright light well.
STEELIX lives even further underground than ONIX. This POKéMON is known to dig towards the earth’s core. There are records of this POKéMON reaching a depth of over six-tenths of a mile underground.
STEELIX live even further underground than ONIX. This POKéMON is known to dig toward the earth’s core, reaching a depth of over six-tenths of a mile underground.
It is said that if an ONIX lives for over 100 years, its composition changes to become diamond-like.
Its body has been compressed deep under the ground. As a result, it is even harder than diamond.
Tempered underground under high pressure and heat, its body is harder than any metal.
It chews its way through boulders with its sturdy jaws. Its eyes can see in the darkness underground.
It is thought its body transformed as a result of iron accumulating internally from swallowing soil.
Its body has been compressed deep under the ground. As a result, it is even harder than a diamond.
It’s said that if an ONIX lives for 100 years, its composition becomes diamondlike as it evolves into a STEELIX.
It is thought its body transformed as a result of iron accumulating internally from swallowing soil.
The iron it ingested with the soil it swallowed transformed its body and made it harder than diamonds.
Tempered underground under high pressure and heat, its body is harder than any metal.
It chews its way through boulders with its sturdy jaws. Its eyes can see in the darkness underground.
Steelix lives even further underground than Onix. This Pokémon is known to dig toward the earth’s core. There are records of this Pokémon reaching a depth of over six-tenths of a mile underground.
Steelix lives even further underground than Onix. This Pokémon is known to dig toward the earth’s core. There are records of this Pokémon reaching a depth of over six-tenths of a mile underground.
It is said that if an Onix lives for over 100 years, its composition changes to become diamond-like.
It is thought its body transformed as a result of iron accumulating internally from swallowing soil.
This Pokémon evolved through use of a strange item. Its body is coated with steel powder and notably hard—not even diamond can leave so much as a scratch.
Steelix Name Origin & Design Inspiration
The name Steelix is a straightforward portmanteau combining 'steel' and 'Onix,' reflecting its transformation from a rock-based serpent into a steel-composed creature while maintaining its evolutionary lineage. In Japanese, it is known as Haganeil (ハガネール), where 'hagane' (鋼) means steel, further emphasizing the core concept of metallic transformation. The design philosophy behind Steelix represents a natural progression from Onix, maintaining the serpentine body structure and segmented appearance while replacing the dull stone texture with reflective metallic segments. The prominent spikes that extend from alternating body segments reference both the dangerous nature of this creature and functional tools for breaking through ore-rich stone formations. The massive jaw structure that dominates Steelix's head design echoes that of Onix while appearing more menacing and powerful, with the large square teeth suggesting a creature optimized for consuming mineral-rich materials. The overall aesthetic communicates the Pokémon's dual Steel/Ground typing through visual language—the metallic surface representing Steel while the rocky, segmented construction and earth-boring design emphasize its Ground affinity, creating a cohesive design that visually communicates both type immunities and thematic purpose.
Learnable Moves
Steelix can learn 85 moves:
Move | Type | Cat. | Power | Acc. | PP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ancient power | rock | Special | 60 | 100 | 5 |
| aqua tail | water | Physical | 90 | 90 | 10 |
| attract | normal | Status | — | 100 | 15 |
| autotomize | steel | Status | — | — | 15 |
| bind | normal | Physical | 15 | 85 | 20 |
| block | normal | Status | — | — | 5 |
| body slam | normal | Physical | 85 | 100 | 15 |
| captivate | normal | Status | — | 100 | 20 |
| confide | normal | Status | — | — | 20 |
| crunch | dark | Physical | 80 | 100 | 15 |
| curse | ghost | Status | — | — | 10 |
| cut | normal | Physical | 50 | 95 | 30 |
| dark pulse | dark | Special | 80 | 100 | 15 |
| defense curl | normal | Status | — | — | 40 |
| dig | ground | Physical | 80 | 100 | 10 |
| double team | normal | Status | — | — | 15 |
| double edge | normal | Physical | 120 | 100 | 15 |
| dragon breath | dragon | Special | 60 | 100 | 20 |
| dragon dance | dragon | Status | — | — | 20 |
| dragon pulse | dragon | Special | 85 | 100 | 10 |
| dragon tail | dragon | Physical | 60 | 90 | 10 |
| drill run | ground | Physical | 80 | 95 | 10 |
| earth power | ground | Special | 90 | 100 | 10 |
| earthquake | ground | Physical | 100 | 100 | 10 |
| endure | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| explosion | normal | Physical | 250 | 100 | 5 |
| facade | normal | Physical | 70 | 100 | 20 |
| fire fang | fire | Physical | 65 | 95 | 15 |
| flash cannon | steel | Special | 80 | 100 | 10 |
| frustration | normal | Physical | — | 100 | 20 |
| giga impact | normal | Physical | 150 | 90 | 5 |
| gyro ball | steel | Physical | — | 100 | 5 |
| harden | normal | Status | — | — | 30 |
| headbutt | normal | Physical | 70 | 100 | 15 |
| heavy slam | steel | Physical | — | 100 | 10 |
| hidden power | normal | Special | 60 | 100 | 15 |
| hyper beam | normal | Special | 150 | 90 | 5 |
| ice fang | ice | Physical | 65 | 95 | 15 |
| iron defense | steel | Status | — | — | 15 |
| iron head | steel | Physical | 80 | 100 | 15 |
| iron tail | steel | Physical | 100 | 75 | 15 |
| magnet rise | electric | Status | — | — | 10 |
| mimic | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| mud sport | ground | Status | — | — | 15 |
| mud slap | ground | Special | 20 | 100 | 10 |
| natural gift | normal | Physical | — | 100 | 15 |
| nature power | normal | Status | — | — | 20 |
| payback | dark | Physical | 50 | 100 | 10 |
| protect | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| psych up | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| rage | normal | Physical | 20 | 100 | 20 |
| rest | psychic | Status | — | — | 5 |
| return | normal | Physical | — | 100 | 20 |
| roar | normal | Status | — | — | 20 |
| rock blast | rock | Physical | 25 | 90 | 10 |
| rock climb | normal | Physical | 90 | 85 | 20 |
| rock polish | rock | Status | — | — | 20 |
| rock slide | rock | Physical | 75 | 90 | 10 |
| rock smash | fighting | Physical | 40 | 100 | 15 |
| rock throw | rock | Physical | 50 | 90 | 15 |
| rock tomb | rock | Physical | 60 | 95 | 15 |
| rollout | rock | Physical | 30 | 90 | 20 |
| round | normal | Special | 60 | 100 | 15 |
| sand tomb | ground | Physical | 35 | 85 | 15 |
| sandstorm | rock | Status | — | — | 10 |
| scary face | normal | Status | — | 100 | 10 |
| screech | normal | Status | — | 85 | 40 |
| secret power | normal | Physical | 70 | 100 | 20 |
| self destruct | normal | Physical | 200 | 100 | 5 |
| slam | normal | Physical | 80 | 75 | 20 |
| sleep talk | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| smack down | rock | Physical | 50 | 100 | 15 |
| snore | normal | Special | 50 | 100 | 15 |
| stealth rock | rock | Status | — | — | 20 |
| stone edge | rock | Physical | 100 | 80 | 5 |
| strength | normal | Physical | 80 | 100 | 15 |
| substitute | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| sunny day | fire | Status | — | — | 5 |
| swagger | normal | Status | — | 85 | 15 |
| tackle | normal | Physical | 40 | 100 | 35 |
| taunt | dark | Status | — | 100 | 20 |
| thunder fang | electric | Physical | 65 | 95 | 15 |
| torment | dark | Status | — | 100 | 15 |
| toxic | poison | Status | — | 90 | 10 |
| twister | dragon | Special | 40 | 100 | 20 |
Steelix Competitive Battle Guide
Steelix's competitive viability centers entirely around its exceptional Defense stat of 200, representing one of the highest defensive values available to non-legendary Pokémon and providing unparalleled physical bulk that makes it nearly impossible to OHKO with physical attacks. This extraordinary defensive foundation is complemented by the Rock Head ability, which protects Steelix from recoil damage while using powerful physical moves, or Sturdy, which prevents OHKO moves and leaves the user with 1 HP instead of being knocked out from full health. The hidden ability Sheer Force offers an alternative competitive strategy, amplifying moves with secondary effects to 1.3 times their power while eliminating those additional effects, enabling Steelix to function as an offensive threat rather than pure wall. However, Steelix's Speed stat of 30 represents a critical weakness, making it the slowest of most competitive teams and requiring careful team building with priority moves or tailoring to slower, defensive playstyles. The base Attack stat of 85, while respectable for a defensive Pokémon, limits Steelix's offensive output significantly, though Mega Steelix's increase to 125 Attack provides meaningful offensive potential alongside the improved 230 Defense. Steelix's Steel/Ground typing grants exceptional resistances and immunities, including complete immunity to Electric-type attacks and poison damage, along with resistances to nine other types, making it an excellent choice for defensive cores and hazard-setting roles in competitive formats.
Commonly Asked Questions About Steelix
What type is Steelix?
Steelix is a steel and ground type Pokemon.
What does Steelix evolve from?
Steelix evolved from onix.
What are Steelix's weaknesses?
Steelix is weak to fighting, ground, fire and water type moves.
Where can I find Steelix?
Steelix can be found in snowpoint temple (sinnoh), iron island (sinnoh) and sinnoh victory road (sinnoh) and 8 other locations.
Steelix Cultural Impact & Franchise History
Steelix achieved significant cultural prominence in the Pokémon animated series through memorable character associations, most notably Brock's Steelix, which evolved from his Onix during critical battles and became a signature member of his team showcasing his expertise in Rock and Ground-type training. Jasmine, the steel-type specialist gym leader of Johto's Olivine City, possesses a powerful Steelix that serves as her ace Pokémon, cementing the species' association with dedicated trainers and specialized type-focused teams. The creature's impressive physical design and unusual evolution mechanic made it a fan favorite among Generation II Pokémon enthusiasts, inspiring numerous fan artworks, tournament appearances, and competitive discussions across the Pokémon community. Steelix's appearance in Super Smash Bros. games provided additional cultural visibility, with trophy descriptions highlighting its underground excavation prowess and impressive defensive characteristics. The introduction of Mega Steelix in later generations revitalized competitive interest in the species, as the Mega Evolution's improved stats and Sand Force ability provided new strategic avenues that hadn't previously been viable. Trading card game representations of Steelix across multiple generations have made it a collectible staple, with various card illustrations showcasing the Pokémon's impressive size and metallic appearance.
Where to Find Steelix in Every Pokémon Game
Steelix availability varies considerably across Pokémon generations and game versions, with trainers typically obtaining it through evolution of Onix using the Metal Coat trade mechanic rather than catching wild specimens. In Generation II games (Gold, Silver, and Crystal), Steelix appears in Olivine City and surrounding areas as a wild encounter, with Jasmine's team featuring a notable specimen. HeartGold and SoulSilver maintain similar availability while updating encounter mechanics, allowing players to obtain Steelix through evolution or direct encounters in appropriate locations. In Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum, Steelix becomes available at higher levels in underground caverns and specific caves where Onix naturally appears, facilitating evolution chains. Later generations including X and Y, Sun and Moon, and Sword and Shield maintain Steelix availability through Pokédex entries and Poké Dex regional listings, though specific availability fluctuates based on game version and DLC content. Pokémon Legends: Arceus introduced Steelix within the Pokédex at regional number 119, reflecting the game's focus on catching and studying regional Pokémon populations. For players seeking optimal specimens, breeding Onix with Metal Coats provides controlled access to Steelix with desired natures and individual values, while various Pokémon games offer multiple Metal Coat sources through item locations, NPC rewards, or held items from wild Pokémon encounters. Trading communities, Pokémon HOME integration, and available transfer mechanics make obtaining region-specific Steelix variants feasible across modern gaming platforms.