Special move

Special attack redirects here. For the Special Attack stat, see Stat → Special Attack.
Damage categories
Physical
Special
Status

A special move (Japanese: 特殊技 special move), sometimes referred to as special attack, is one of the three categories of moves and one of the two that inflict damage.

Techno Blast is an example of a special move.

In Generation I, special moves cause damage depending on the Special stats of both the attacking Pokémon and the defending Pokémon. In later generations, special moves typically deal damage depending on the Special Attack stat of the attacking Pokémon and the Special Defense stat of the defending Pokémon. However, a small number of special moves introduced in Generation V actually deal damage calculated with the defending Pokémon's Defense instead of its Special Defense stat.

While most special moves do not make contact, some do. For example, Grass Knot makes contact despite being a special move.

Terminology

Prior to Generation IX, this category of moves was named "special attack" in descriptions of some moves (such as Light Screen and Mirror Coat) and Abilities (such as Flare Boost). The term "special attack" is also used at the Exchange Service Corner from the Battle Frontier in Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver.

Generations I-III

Before Generation IV, a move's damage category was determined by its type. All damaging moves of the following types are special moves:

Hidden Power and Weather Ball are the only moves that can be either category, due to being able to change type.

Shadow moves

The following Shadow moves are special moves:

Game Move Power Accuracy Target Description
XD Shadow Bolt 75 100%
   
   
Anyone
A shadowy thunder attack that may paralyze.
XD Shadow Chill 75 100%
   
   
Anyone
A shadowy ice attack that may freeze.
XD Shadow Fire 75 100%
   
   
Anyone
A shadowy fireball attack that may inflict a burn.
XD Shadow Rave 70 100%
   
   
All foes
A shadowy aura in the ground is used to launch spikes.
XD Shadow Storm 95 100%
   
   
All foes
A shadowy aura is used to whip up a vicious tornado.
XD Shadow Wave 50 100%
   
   
All foes
Shadowy aura waves are loosed to inflict damage.
All details are accurate to Pokémon XD. For details that have changed between games, please see an individual move's page. Target data assumes user is in the lower left.

Generation IV onward

From Generation IV onward, most damaging moves of the preceding types are special moves, except for Dark, which has only three.

Generation V also introduced three moves categorized as special moves but that deal physical damage. That is, they use the user's Special Attack and the target's Defense to calculate damage. These moves are Psyshock, Psystrike, and Secret Sword. The move Photon Geyser becomes physical if the user's attack stat is higher that its special attack. Shell Side Arm can become physical if it determines it would deal more damage that way after comparing the stats of the user and the target.

Z-Moves, Max Moves, G-Max Moves, and Tera Blast can become special depending on use.

Abilities affecting special moves

Name Description Generation
Flare Boost Powers up special moves when the Pokémon is burned. V
Battery Powers up ally Pokémon's special moves. VII
Ice Scales The Pokémon is protected by ice scales, which halve the damage taken from special moves. VIII

Moves affecting special moves

Name Description Generation
Light Screen A wondrous wall of light is put up to reduce damage from special attacks for five turns. I
Mirror Coat A retaliation move that counters any special attack, inflicting double the damage taken. II
Aurora Veil This move reduces damage from physical and special moves for five turns. This can be used only in a hailstorm. VII
Shell Side Arm This move inflicts physical or special damage, whichever will be more effective. This may also poison the target. VIII

List of moves

Gen Move Type Contest Power Accuracy PP Target Description
VII 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt Electric 195 % 1 (max 1)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user, Pikachu wearing a cap, powers up a jolt of electricity using its Z-Power and unleashes it. Critical hits land more easily.
I Absorb Grass Clever 20 100% 25 (max 40)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A nutrient-draining attack. The user's HP is restored by half the damage taken by the target.
I Acid Poison Clever 40 100% 30 (max 48)
     
     
All adjacent foes
Opposing Pokémon are attacked with a spray of harsh acid. This may also lower their Sp. Def stats.
V Acid Spray Poison Beautiful 40 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user spits fluid that works to melt the target. This harshly lowers the target's Sp. Def stat.
II Aeroblast Flying Cool 100 95% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Anyone
A vortex of air is shot at the target to inflict damage. Critical hits land more easily.
III Air Cutter Flying Cool 60 95% 25 (max 40)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user launches razor-like wind to slash opposing Pokémon. Critical hits land more easily.
IV Air Slash Flying Cool 75 95% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Anyone
The user attacks with a blade of air that slices even the sky. This may also make the target flinch.
IX Alluring Voice Fairy 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target using its angelic voice. This also confuses the target if its stats have been boosted during the turn.
II Ancient Power Rock Tough 60 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks with a prehistoric power. This may also raise all the user's stats at once.
VIII Apple Acid Grass 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target with an acidic liquid created from tart apples. This also lowers the target's Sp. Def stat.
IX Armor Cannon Fire 120 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user shoots its own armor out as blazing projectiles. This also lowers the user's Defense and Sp. Def stats.
VIII Astral Barrage Ghost 120 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks by sending a frightful amount of small ghosts at opposing Pokémon.
IV Aura Sphere Fighting Beautiful 80 % 20 (max 32)
     
     
Anyone
The user lets loose a blast of aura power from deep within its body at the target. This attack never misses.
I Aurora Beam Ice Beautiful 65 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is hit with a rainbow-colored beam. This may also lower the target's Attack stat.
VI Belch Poison Tough 120 90% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user lets out a damaging belch at the target. The user must eat a held Berry to use this move.
VIII Bitter Malice Ghost 75 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target with spine-chilling resentment. This also lowers the target’s Attack stat.
III Blast Burn Fire Beautiful 150 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is razed by a fiery explosion. The user can't move on the next turn.
I Blizzard Ice Beautiful 110 70% 5 (max 8)
     
     
All adjacent foes
A howling blizzard is summoned to strike opposing Pokémon. This may also leave the opposing Pokémon frozen.
IX Blood Moon Normal 140 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user unleashes the full brunt of its spirit from a full moon that shines as red as blood. This move can't be used twice in a row.
V Blue Flare Fire Beautiful 130 85% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks by engulfing the target in an intense, yet beautiful, blue flame. This may also leave the target with a burn.
VI Boomburst Normal Tough 140 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks everything around it with the destructive power of a terrible, explosive sound.
IV Brine Water Tough 65 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
If the target's HP is half or less, this attack will hit with double the power.
I Bubble Water Cute 40 100% 30 (max 48)
     
     
All adjacent foes
A spray of countless bubbles is jetted at the opposing Pokémon. This may also lower their Speed stat.
I Bubble Beam Water Beautiful 65 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A spray of bubbles is forcefully ejected at the target. This may also lower the target's Speed stat.
IV Bug Buzz Bug Beautiful 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user generates a damaging sound wave by vibration. This may also lower the target's Sp. Def stat.
VII Burn Up Fire 130 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
To inflict massive damage, the user burns itself out. After using this move, the user will no longer be Fire type.
VIII Burning Jealousy Fire 70 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks with energy from jealousy. This leaves all opposing Pokémon that have had their stats boosted during the turn with a burn.
IV Charge Beam Electric Beautiful 50 90% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target with an electric charge. The user may use any remaining electricity to raise its Sp. Atk stat.
IV Chatter Flying Cute 65 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Anyone
The user attacks the target with sound waves of deafening chatter. This confuses the target.
IX Chilling Water Water 50 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target by showering it with water that's so cold it saps the target's power. This also lowers the target's Attack stat.
VIII Chloroblast Green 150 95% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user launches its amassed chlorophyll to inflict damage on the target. This also damages the user.
VII Clanging Scales Dragon 110 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user rubs the scales on its entire body and makes a huge noise to attack opposing Pokémon. The user's Defense stat goes down after the attack.
V Clear Smog Poison Beautiful 50 % 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target by throwing a clump of special mud. All stat changes are returned to normal.
I Confusion Psychic Clever 50 100% 25 (max 40)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is hit by a weak telekinetic force. This may also confuse the target.
VII Core Enforcer Dragon 100 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
If the Pokémon the user has inflicted damage on have already used their moves, this move eliminates the effect of the target's Ability.
IV Dark Pulse Dark Cool 80 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Anyone
The user releases a horrible aura imbued with dark thoughts. This may also make the target flinch.
VI Dazzling Gleam Fairy Beautiful 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user damages opposing Pokémon by emitting a powerful flash.
VI Disarming Voice Fairy Cute 40 % 15 (max 24)
     
     
All adjacent foes
Letting out a charming cry, the user does emotional damage to opposing Pokémon. This attack never misses.
IV Discharge Electric Beautiful 80 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
All adjacent Pokémon
The user strikes everything around it by letting loose a flare of electricity. This may also cause paralysis.
III Doom Desire Steel Beautiful 140 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
Two turns after this move is used, a concentrated bundle of light blasts the target.
IV Draco Meteor Dragon Beautiful 130 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
Comets are summoned down from the sky onto the target. The attack's recoil harshly lowers the user's Sp. Atk stat.
II Dragon Breath Dragon Cool 60 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user exhales a mighty gust that inflicts damage. This may also leave the target with paralysis.
VIII Dragon Energy Dragon 150 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
All adjacent foes
Converting its life-force into power, the user attacks opposing Pokémon. The lower the user's HP, the lower the move's power.
IV Dragon Pulse Dragon Beautiful 85 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Anyone
The target is attacked with a shock wave generated by the user's gaping mouth.
I Dragon Rage Dragon Cool 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
This attack hits the target with a shock wave of pure rage. This attack always inflicts 40 HP damage.
VI Draining Kiss Fairy Cute 50 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user steals the target's HP with a kiss. The user's HP is restored by over half of the damage taken by the target.
I Dream Eater Psychic Clever 100 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user eats the dreams of a sleeping target. The user's HP is restored by half the damage taken by the target.
VIII Dynamax Cannon Dragon 100 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user unleashes a strong beam from its core. This move deals twice the damage if the target is Dynamaxed.
IV Earth Power Ground Beautiful 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user makes the ground under the target erupt with power. This may also lower the target's Sp. Def stat.
V Echoed Voice Normal Beautiful 40 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target with an echoing voice. If this move is used every turn, its power is increased.
VIII Eerie Spell Psychic 80 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks with its tremendous psychic power. This also removes 3 PP from the target's last move.
V Electro Ball Electric Cool 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user hurls an electric orb at the target. The faster the user is than the target, the greater the move's power.
IX Electro Drift Electric 100 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user races forward at ultrafast speeds, piercing its target with futuristic electricity. This move's power is boosted more than usual if it's a supereffective hit.
IX Electro Shot Electric 130 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user gathers electricity on the first turn, boosting its Sp. Atk stat, then fires a high-voltage shot on the next turn. The shot will be fired immediately in rain.
V Electroweb Electric Beautiful 55 95% 15 (max 24)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks and captures opposing Pokémon using an electric net. This lowers their Speed stats.
I Ember Fire Cute 40 100% 25 (max 40)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is attacked with small flames. This may also leave the target with a burn.
IV Energy Ball Grass Beautiful 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user draws power from nature and fires it at the target. This may also lower the target's Sp. Def stat.
III Eruption Fire Beautiful 150 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks opposing Pokémon with explosive fury. The lower the user's HP, the lower the move's power.
VIII Esper Wing Psychic 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Self
The user slashes the target with aura-enriched wings. This also boosts the user's Speed stat. This move has a heightened chance of landing a critical hit.
VIII Eternabeam Dragon 160 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
This is Eternatus's most powerful attack in its original form. The user can't move on the next turn.
VIII Expanding Force Psychic 80 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target with its psychic power. This move's power goes up and damages all opposing Pokémon on Psychic Terrain.
III Extrasensory Psychic Cool 80 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks with an odd, unseeable power. This may also make the target flinch.
VI Fairy Wind Fairy Beautiful 40 100% 30 (max 48)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user stirs up a fairy wind and strikes the target with it.
IX Fickle Beam Dragon 80 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user shoots a beam of light to inflict damage. Sometimes all the user's heads shoot beams in unison, doubling the move's power.
V Fiery Dance Fire Beautiful 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
Cloaked in flames, the user attacks the target by dancing and flapping its wings. This may also raise the user's Sp. Atk stat.
VIII Fiery Wrath Dark 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user transforms its wrath into a fire-like aura to attack. This may also make opposing Pokémon flinch.
V Final Gambit Fighting Tough 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user risks everything to attack its target. The user faints but does damage equal to its HP.
I Fire Blast Fire Beautiful 110 85% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is attacked with an intense blast of all-consuming fire. This may also leave the target with a burn.
V Fire Pledge Fire Beautiful 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A column of fire hits the target. When used with its grass equivalent, its power increases and a vast sea of fire appears.
I Fire Spin Fire Beautiful 35 85% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target becomes trapped within a fierce vortex of fire that rages for four to five turns.
V Flame Burst Fire Beautiful 70 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target with a bursting flame. The bursting flame damages Pokémon next to the target as well.
I Flamethrower Fire Beautiful 90 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is scorched with an intense blast of fire. This may also leave the target with a burn.
IV Flash Cannon Steel Beautiful 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user gathers all its light energy and releases it all at once. This may also lower the target's Sp. Def stat.
VII Fleur Cannon Fairy 130 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user unleashes a strong beam. The attack's recoil harshly lowers the user's Sp. Atk stat.
IV Focus Blast Fighting Cool 120 70% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user heightens its mental focus and unleashes its power. This may also lower the target's Sp. Def stat.
VI Freeze-Dry Ice Beautiful 70 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user rapidly cools the target. This may also leave the target frozen. This move is super effective on Water types.
VIII Freezing Glare Psychic 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user shoots its psychic power from its eyes to attack. This may also leave the target frozen.
III Frenzy Plant Grass Cool 150 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user slams the target with the roots of an enormous tree. The user can't move on the next turn.
V Frost Breath Ice Beautiful 60 90% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user blows its cold breath on the target. This attack always results in a critical hit.
V Fusion Flare Fire Beautiful 100 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user brings down a giant flame. This move's power is increased when influenced by an enormous lightning bolt.
II Future Sight Psychic Clever 120 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
Two turns after this move is used, a hunk of psychic energy attacks the target.
VII Genesis Supernova Psychic 185 % 1 (max 1)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
After obtaining Z-Power, the user, Mew, attacks the target with full force. The terrain will be charged with psychic energy.
II Giga Drain Grass Clever 75 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A nutrient-draining attack. The user's HP is restored by half the damage taken by the target.
V Glaciate Ice Beautiful 65 95% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks by blowing freezing cold air at opposing Pokémon. This lowers their Speed stats.
IV Grass Knot Grass Cute 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user snares the target with grass and trips it. The heavier the target, the greater the move's power.
V Grass Pledge Grass Beautiful 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A column of grass hits the target. When used with its water equivalent, its power increases and a vast swamp appears.
VII Guardian of Alola Fairy % 1 (max 1)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user, the Land Spirit Pokémon, obtains Alola's energy using its Z-Power and attacks the target with full force. This reduces the target's HP greatly.
I Gust Flying Clever 40 100% 35 (max 56)
     
     
Anyone
A gust of wind is whipped up by wings and launched at the target to inflict damage.
III Heat Wave Fire Beautiful 95 90% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks by exhaling hot breath on opposing Pokémon. This may also leave those Pokémon with a burn.
V Hex Ghost Clever 65 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
This relentless attack does massive damage to a target affected by status conditions.
II Hidden Power Normal Clever 60 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A unique attack that varies in type depending on the Pokémon using it.
V Hurricane Flying Tough 110 70% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Anyone
The user attacks by wrapping its opponent in a fierce wind that flies up into the sky. This may also confuse the target.
III Hydro Cannon Water Beautiful 150 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is hit with a watery blast. The user can't move on the next turn.
I Hydro Pump Water Beautiful 110 80% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is blasted by a huge volume of water launched under great pressure.
IX Hydro Steam Water 80 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user blasts the target with boiling-hot water. This move's power is not lowered in harsh sunlight but rather boosted by 50 percent.
I Hyper Beam Normal Cool 150 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is attacked with a powerful beam. The user can't move on the next turn.
III Hyper Voice Normal Cool 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user lets loose a horribly echoing shout with the power to inflict damage.
VI Hyperspace Hole Psychic Clever 80 % 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
Using a hyperspace hole, the user appears right next to the target and strikes. This also hits a target using a move such as Protect or Detect.
I Ice Beam Ice Beautiful 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is struck with an icy-cold beam of energy. This may also leave the target frozen.
V Ice Burn Ice Beautiful 140 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
On the second turn, an ultracold, freezing wind surrounds the target. This may leave the target with a burn.
II Icy Wind Ice Beautiful 55 95% 15 (max 24)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks with a gust of chilled air. This also lowers opposing Pokémon's Speed stats.
V Incinerate Fire Tough 60 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks opposing Pokémon with fire. If a Pokémon is holding a certain item, such as a Berry, the item becomes burned up and unusable.
VIII Infernal Parade Ghost 60 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks with myriad fireballs. This may also leave the target with a burn. This move's power is doubled if the target has a status condition.
V Inferno Fire Beautiful 100 50% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks by engulfing the target in an intense fire. This leaves the target with a burn.
VI Infestation Bug Cute 20 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is infested and attacked for four to five turns. The target can't flee during this time.
IV Judgment Normal Beautiful 100 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user releases countless shots of light at the target. This move's type varies depending on the kind of Plate the user is holding.
IV Lava Plume Fire Tough 80 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
All adjacent Pokémon
The user torches everything around it in an inferno of scarlet flames. This may also leave those it hits with a burn.
IV Leaf Storm Grass Beautiful 130 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user whips up a storm of leaves around the target. The attack's recoil harshly lowers the user's Sp. Atk stat.
V Leaf Tornado Grass Cool 65 90% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks its target by encircling it in sharp leaves. This attack may also lower the target's accuracy.
VI Light of Ruin Fairy Beautiful 140 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
Drawing power from the Eternal Flower, the user fires a powerful beam of light. This also damages the user quite a lot.
IX Lumina Crash Psychic 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks by unleashing a peculiar light that even affects the mind. This also harshly lowers the target's Sp. Def stat.
III Luster Purge Psychic Clever 70 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user lets loose a damaging burst of light. This may also lower the target's Sp. Def stat.
III Magical Leaf Grass Beautiful 60 % 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user scatters curious leaves that chase the target. This attack never misses.
IV Magma Storm Fire Tough 100 75% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target becomes trapped within a maelstrom of fire that rages for four to five turns.
IX Make It Rain Steel 120 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks by throwing out a mass of coins. This also lowers the user's Sp. Atk stat. Money is earned after the battle.
IX Malignant Chain Poison 100 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user pours toxins into the target by wrapping them in a toxic, corrosive chain. This may also leave the target badly poisoned.
IX Matcha Gotcha Grass 80 90% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user fires a blast of tea that it mixed. The user's HP is restored by up to half the damage taken by the target. This may also leave the target with a burn.
I Mega Drain Grass Clever 40 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A nutrient-draining attack. The user's HP is restored by half the damage taken by the target.
VIII Meteor Beam Rock 120 90% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
In this two-turn attack, the user gathers space power and boosts its Sp. Atk stat, then attacks the target on the next turn.
II Mirror Coat Psychic Beautiful 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Self
A retaliation move that counters any special attack, inflicting double the damage taken.
IV Mirror Shot Steel Beautiful 65 85% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user lets loose a flash of energy at the target from its polished body. This may also lower the target's accuracy.
III Mist Ball Psychic Clever 70 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A mist-like flurry of down envelops and damages the target. This may also lower the target's Sp. Atk stat.
VIII Misty Explosion Fairy 100 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks everything around it and faints upon using this move. This move's power is increased on Misty Terrain.
VI Moonblast Fairy Beautiful 95 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
Borrowing the power of the moon, the user attacks the target. This may also lower the target's Sp. Atk stat.
VII Moongeist Beam Ghost 100 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user emits a sinister ray to attack the target. This move can be used on the target regardless of its Abilities.
IV Mud Bomb Ground Cute 65 85% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user launches a hard-packed mud ball to attack. This may also lower the target's accuracy.
III Mud Shot Ground Tough 55 95% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks by hurling a blob of mud at the target. This also lowers the target's Speed stat.
II Mud-Slap Ground Cute 20 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user hurls mud in the target's face to inflict damage and lower its accuracy.
III Muddy Water Water Tough 90 85% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks by shooting muddy water at opposing Pokémon. This may also lower their accuracy.
VI Mystical Fire Fire Beautiful 75 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks by breathing a special, hot fire. This also lowers the target's Sp. Atk stat.
VIII Mystical Power Psychic 70 90% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks by emitting a mysterious power. This also boosts the user’s Sp. Atk stat.
VII Nature's Madness Fairy 90% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user hits the target with the force of nature. It halves the target's HP.
V Night Daze Dark Cool 85 95% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user lets loose a pitch-black shock wave at its target. This may also lower the target's accuracy.
I Night Shade Ghost Clever 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user makes the target see a frightening mirage. It inflicts damage equal to the user's level.
VI Oblivion Wing Flying Cool 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user absorbs its target's HP. The user's HP is restored by over half of the damage taken by the target.
VII Oceanic Operetta Water 195 % 1 (max 1)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user, Primarina, summons a massive amount of water using its Z-Power and attacks the target with full force.
II Octazooka Water Tough 65 85% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks by spraying ink in the target's face or eyes. This may also lower the target's accuracy.
IV Ominous Wind Ghost Beautiful 60 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user blasts the target with a gust of repulsive wind. This may also raise all the user's stats at once.
VI Origin Pulse Water Beautiful 110 85% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks opposing Pokémon with countless beams of light that glow a deep and brilliant blue.
VIII Overdrive Electric 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks opposing Pokémon by twanging a guitar or bass guitar, causing a huge echo and strong vibration.
III Overheat Fire Beautiful 130 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target at full power. The attack's recoil harshly lowers the user's Sp. Atk stat.
VI Parabolic Charge Electric Clever 65 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
All adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks everything around it. The user's HP is restored by half the damage taken by those hit.
I Petal Dance Grass Beautiful 120 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Self
The user attacks the target by scattering petals for two to three turns. The user then becomes confused.
VII Photon Geyser Psychic 100 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target with a pillar of light. This move inflicts damage using the Attack or Sp. Atk stat— whichever is higher for the user.
VII Pollen Puff Bug 90 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the enemy with a pollen puff that explodes. If the target is an ally, it gives the ally a pollen puff that restores its HP instead.
II Powder Snow Ice Beautiful 40 100% 25 (max 40)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks with a chilling gust of powdery snow. This may also freeze opposing Pokémon.
IV Power Gem Rock Beautiful 80 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks with a ray of light that sparkles as if it were made of gemstones.
VII Prismatic Laser Psychic 160 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user shoots powerful lasers using the power of a prism. The user can't move on the next turn.
I Psybeam Psychic Beautiful 65 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is attacked with a peculiar ray. This may also leave the target confused.
I Psychic Psychic Clever 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is hit by a strong telekinetic force. This may also lower the target's Sp. Def stat.
IX Psychic Noise Psychic 75 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target with unpleasant sound waves. For two turns, the target is prevented from recovering HP through moves, Abilities, or held items.
III Psycho Boost Psychic Clever 140 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target at full power. The attack's recoil harshly lowers the user's Sp. Atk stat.
V Psyshock Psychic Beautiful 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user materializes an odd psychic wave to attack the target. This attack does physical damage.
V Psystrike Psychic Cool 100 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user materializes an odd psychic wave to attack the target. This attack does physical damage.
I Psywave Psychic Clever 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is attacked with an odd psychic wave. The attack varies in intensity.
I Razor Wind Normal Cool 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
In this two-turn attack, blades of wind hit opposing Pokémon on the second turn. Critical hits land more easily.
V Relic Song Normal Beautiful 75 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user sings an ancient song and attacks by appealing to the hearts of the listening opposing Pokémon. This may also induce sleep.
VII Revelation Dance Normal 90 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target by dancing very hard. The user's type determines the type of this move.
VIII Rising Voltage Electric 70 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks with electric voltage rising from the ground. This move's power doubles when the target is on Electric Terrain.
IV Roar of Time Dragon Beautiful 150 90% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user blasts the target with power that distorts even time. The user can't move on the next turn.
V Round Normal Beautiful 60 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target with a song. Others can join in the Round to increase the power of the attack.
IX Ruination Dark 90% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user summons a ruinous disaster. This cuts the target's HP in half.
VIII Sandsear Storm Ground 100 80% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks by wrapping opposing Pokémon in fierce winds and searingly hot sand. This may also leave them with a burn.
V Scald Water Tough 80 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user shoots boiling hot water at its target. This may also leave the target with a burn.
VIII Scorching Sands Ground 70 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user throws scorching sand at the target to attack. This may also leave the target with a burn.
V Searing Shot Fire Cool 100 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
All adjacent Pokémon
The user torches everything around it in an inferno of scarlet flames. This may also leave those it hits with a burn.
V Secret Sword Fighting Beautiful 85 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user cuts with its long horn. The odd power contained in the horn does physical damage to the target.
IV Seed Flare Grass Beautiful 120 85% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user emits a shock wave from its body to attack its target. This may also harshly lower the target's Sp. Def stat.
II Shadow Ball Ghost Clever 80 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user hurls a shadowy blob at the target. This may also lower the target's Sp. Def stat.
III Sheer Cold Ice Beautiful % 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target faints instantly. It's less likely to hit the target if it's used by Pokémon other than Ice types.
VIII Shell Side Arm Poison 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
This move inflicts physical or special damage, whichever will be more effective. This may also poison the target.
VII Shell Trap Fire 150 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user sets a shell trap. If the user is hit by a physical move, the trap will explode and inflict damage on opposing Pokémon.
III Shock Wave Electric Cool 60 % 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user strikes the target with a quick jolt of electricity. This attack never misses.
III Signal Beam Bug Beautiful 75 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks with a sinister beam of light. This may also confuse the target.
III Silver Wind Bug Beautiful 60 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is attacked with powdery scales blown by the wind. This may also raise all the user's stats.
I Sludge Poison Tough 65 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
Unsanitary sludge is hurled at the target. This may also poison the target.
II Sludge Bomb Poison Tough 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
Unsanitary sludge is hurled at the target. This may also poison the target.
V Sludge Wave Poison Tough 95 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent Pokémon
The user strikes everything around it by swamping the area with a giant sludge wave. This may also poison those hit.
I Smog Poison Tough 30 70% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is attacked with a discharge of filthy gases. This may also poison the target.
V Snarl Dark Tough 55 95% 15 (max 24)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user yells as if it's ranting about something, which lowers the Sp. Atk stats of opposing Pokémon.
VIII Snipe Shot Water 80 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user ignores the effects of opposing Pokémon's moves and Abilities that draw in moves, allowing this move to hit the chosen target.
II Snore Normal Cute 50 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
This attack can be used only if the user is asleep. The harsh noise may also make the target flinch.
I Solar Beam Grass Cool 120 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
In this two-turn attack, the user gathers light, then blasts a bundled beam on the next turn.
I Sonic Boom Normal Cool 90% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is hit with a destructive shock wave that always inflicts 20 HP damage.
IV Spacial Rend Dragon Beautiful 100 95% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user tears the target along with the space around it. Critical hits land more easily.
VII Sparkling Aria Water 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent Pokémon
The user bursts into song, emitting many bubbles. Any Pokémon suffering from a burn will be healed by the touch of these bubbles.
III Spit Up Normal Tough 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The power stored using the move Stockpile is released at once in an attack. The more power is stored, the greater the move's power.
VIII Springtide Storm Fairy 100 80% 5 (max 8)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user attacks by wrapping opposing Pokémon in fierce winds brimming with love and hate. This may also lower their Attack stats.
VI Steam Eruption Water Beautiful 110 95% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user immerses the target in superheated steam. This may also leave the target with a burn.
VIII Steel Beam Steel 140 95% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user fires a beam of steel that it collected from its entire body. This also damages the user.
VII Stoked Sparksurfer Electric 175 % 1 (max 1)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
After obtaining Z-Power, the user, Alolan Raichu, attacks the target with full force. This move leaves the target with paralysis.
V Stored Power Psychic Clever 20 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target with stored power. The more the user's stats are raised, the greater the move's power.
VIII Strange Steam Fairy 90 95% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks the target by emitting steam. This may also confuse the target.
V Struggle Bug Bug Cute 50 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
All adjacent foes
While resisting, the user attacks opposing Pokémon. This lowers the Sp. Atk stats of those hit.
I Surf Water Beautiful 90 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
All adjacent Pokémon
The user attacks everything around it by swamping its surroundings with a giant wave.
I Swift Normal Cool 60 % 20 (max 32)
     
     
All adjacent foes
Star-shaped rays are shot at opposing Pokémon. This attack never misses.
V Synchronoise Psychic Clever 120 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent Pokémon
Using an odd shock wave, the user inflicts damage on any Pokémon of the same type in the area around it.
IX Syrup Bomb Grass 60 85% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user sets off an explosion of sticky candy syrup, which coats the target and causes the target's Speed stat to drop each turn for three turns.
V Techno Blast Normal Cool 120 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user fires a beam of light at its target. The move's type changes depending on the Drive the user holds.
IX Tera Blast Normal 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
If the user has Terastallized, it unleashes energy of its Tera Type. This move inflicts damage using the Attack or Sp. Atk stat, whichever is higher for the user.
IX Tera Starstorm Normal 120 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
With the power of its crystals, the user bombards and eliminates the target. When used by Terapagos in its Stellar Form, this move damages all opposing Pokémon.
VIII Terrain Pulse Normal 50 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user utilizes the power of the terrain to attack. This move's type and power changes depending on the terrain when it's used.
I Thunder Electric Cool 110 70% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A wicked thunderbolt is dropped on the target to inflict damage. This may also leave the target with paralysis.
VIII Thunder Cage Electric 80 90% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user traps the target in a cage of sparking electricity for four to five turns.
I Thunder Shock Electric Cool 40 100% 30 (max 48)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A jolt of electricity crashes down on the target to inflict damage. This may also leave the target with paralysis.
I Thunderbolt Electric Cool 90 100% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A strong electric blast crashes down on the target. This may also leave the target with paralysis.
IX Thunderclap Electric 70 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
This move enables the user to attack first with a jolt of electricity. This move fails if the target is not readying an attack.
IX Torch Song Fire 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user blows out raging flames as if singing a song, scorching the target. This also boosts the user's Sp. Atk stat.
I Tri Attack Normal Beautiful 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user strikes with a simultaneous three-beam attack. This may also burn, freeze, or paralyze the target.
IV Trump Card Normal Cool % 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The fewer PP this move has, the greater its power.
IX Twin Beam Psychic 40 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user shoots mystical beams from its eyes to inflict damage. The target is hit twice in a row.
II Twister Dragon Cool 40 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user whips up a vicious tornado to tear at opposing Pokémon. This may also make them flinch.
III Uproar Normal Cute 90 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Self
The user attacks in an uproar for three turns. During that time, no Pokémon can fall asleep.
IV Vacuum Wave Fighting Cool 40 100% 30 (max 48)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user whirls its fists to send a wave of pure vacuum at the target. This move always goes first.
V Venoshock Poison Beautiful 65 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user drenches the target in a special poisonous liquid. This move's power is doubled if the target is poisoned.
V Volt Switch Electric Cool 70 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
After making its attack, the user rushes back to switch places with a party Pokémon in waiting.
I Water Gun Water Cute 40 100% 25 (max 40)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The target is blasted with a forceful shot of water.
V Water Pledge Water Beautiful 80 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
A column of water hits the target. When used with its fire equivalent, its power increases and a rainbow appears.
III Water Pulse Water Beautiful 60 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Anyone
The user attacks the target with a pulsing blast of water. This may also confuse the target.
VI Water Shuriken Water Cool 15 100% 20 (max 32)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user hits the target with throwing stars two to five times in a row. This move always goes first.
III Water Spout Water Beautiful 150 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user spouts water to damage opposing Pokémon. The lower the user's HP, the lower the move's power.
III Weather Ball Normal Beautiful 50 100% 10 (max 16)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
This attack move varies in power and type depending on the weather.
II Whirlpool Water Beautiful 35 85% 15 (max 24)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user traps the target in a violent swirling whirlpool for four to five turns.
VIII Wildbolt Storm Electric 100 80% 10 (max 16)
     
     
All adjacent foes
The user summons a thunderous tempest and savagely attacks with lightning and wind. This may also leave opposing Pokémon with paralysis.
IV Wring Out Normal Tough 100% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user powerfully wrings the target. The more HP the target has, the greater the move's power.
II Zap Cannon Electric Cool 120 50% 5 (max 8)
     
     
Any adjacent Pokémon
The user fires an electric blast like a cannon to inflict damage and cause paralysis.
All details are accurate to Generation VII games. For details that have changed between generations, please see an individual move's page. Target data assumes user is in the lower left.

Icons

           
Icon from
Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum
Icon from
HeartGold and SoulSilver
Icon from
Generation V
Icon from
Generation VI and VII
Icon from
Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!
Icon from
Sword and Shield
           
Icon from
Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl
Icon from
Legends: Arceus
Icon from
Masters EX
Icon from
HOME
Icon symbol from
HOME
Icon from
Scarlet and Violet

In other languages

Language Title
Chinese Cantonese 特殊招式 Dahksyùh Jīusīk
Mandarin 特殊招式 Tèshū Zhāoshì
  French Attaque spéciale
  German Spezial-Attacke
  Italian Mossa speciale
  Korean 특수 기술 Teuksu Gisul
  Spanish Ataque especial


  This game mechanic article is part of Project Games, a Bulbapedia project that aims to write comprehensive articles on the Pokémon games.