Several specific moves and abilities can effectively trap a Pokémon, preventing it from switching out or escaping during battle. This tactical maneuver can be crucial for maintaining pressure on an opponent or ensuring a knockout.
Understanding Trapping in Pokémon Battles
Trapping refers to the game mechanic where a Pokémon is prevented from switching out to another Pokémon in its trainer's party or fleeing from battle. This status effect can be inflicted by certain moves or passive abilities, forcing the trapped Pokémon to remain in play until it faints, the trapping effect ends, or a specific counter-measure is used.
Moves That Trap Pokémon
The following moves are known for their ability to trap an opposing Pokémon:
| Move Name | Type of Effect |
|---|---|
| Block | Prevents the target from switching out. |
| Mean Look | Prevents the target from switching out. |
| Spider Web | Prevents the target from switching out. |
These moves typically have 100% accuracy and last until the user switches out, faints, or the trapped Pokémon faints.
Abilities That Trap Pokémon
Beyond moves, certain Pokémon possess abilities that inherently trap opponents upon entry or when the ability holder is in battle:
| Ability Name | Type of Effect | Targeted Pokémon |
|---|---|---|
| Arena Trap | Prevents grounded opponents from switching out. | Grounded Pokémon |
| Magnet Pull | Prevents Steel-type opponents from switching out. | Steel-type Pokémon |
| Shadow Tag | Prevents all opponents from switching out. | All Pokémon |
These abilities activate automatically when the Pokémon with the ability is on the field, applying their trapping effect to specific types of Pokémon or all Pokémon, depending on the ability.
