Battle Pointers

Learn about STAB, Priority Moves, Held Items, and type diversity to improve your battles in Pokémon Ultra Sun and Moon.

Same Type Attack Bonus (STAB)

STAB means that when a Pokémon uses a move whose Type matches one of the Pokémon’s Types, that move will deal 50% more damage. If a Pokémon has two Types, it gains STAB from both Types. It is recommended that Pokémon should always carry at least one move with STAB; one from each Type if they’re dual-type.

Variety is the Spice of Life

Aim to make your Pokémon party as diverse as possible. You can represent 12 of the 18 Types with your Pokémon alone. For the missing types, you can teach your Pokémon moves from that Type, via TMs or other means. Although your Pokémon won’t gain STAB from using moves not of their Type, if you’re up against a Pokémon that’s weak to those moves, you’ll still inflict 2 times damage (or 4 times if they’re double-weak).

Avoid Being Empty-Handed

Each Pokémon in your party can hold onto one item. Give them something beneficial to hold onto, such as a berry that automatically cures a status condition or an item such as the Silk Scarf that boosts the power of a particular Type of move. You can give Pokémon items to hold onto via the Pokémon menu or Bag menu. Berries are consumed when used, but most other items will remain unless you use a move like Fling to chuck it away.

Keeping your Priorities Straight

Priority Moves go first in battle regardless of the Pokémon’s Speed stat. For example, Quick Attack. Priority Moves normally inflict less damage compared to other moves, but they can be immensely useful. When both Pokémon use a Priority Move, the Pokémon with the higher Speed stat goes first like normal. Some moves have a higher priority than others, with moves like Protect and Endure normally always going first. Moves can even have negative priority, making the user go last.

Out with a Bang!

In situations where your Pokémon is at critical health and the opposing Pokémon is faster or not much damage will be inflicted, consider sacrificing your current Pokémon. You could heal or revive another Pokémon, inflict a status condition, or use moves that sacrifice your Pokémon like Self-Destruct, Explosion, or Memento.