'''Abilities''' (Japanese: '''{{tt|特性|とくせい}}''' ''special characteristic'') are a game mechanic introduced in [[Generation III]]. Individual Pokémon may have just one of these special attributes at a time, which generally serve to assist them in battle. An Ability cannot be changed after a Pokémon is obtained except by [[evolution]], where the Ability it changes into is determined by the former Ability, and [[Form differences|form change]] ({{p|Giratina}} only). Not every Ability is beneficial; some will hinder the user.