How to use the adapted combat system for Pokémon Legends: Arceus

Pokémon Legends: Arceus has introduced an adapted combat system alongside their new catching system, revolving around move styles. Here is how to use Agile style and Strong style to the fullest in order to win in the battles within Hisui.

How the Agile and Strong move styles change combat

For fans of the Pokémon franchise, the combat is more similar to previous games than the new catching system. The battles are still turn-based, but the addition of move styles means that the timing of said moves changes a lot more. Now, these styles only appear after your Pokémon have mastered their moves, which happens through leveling up. Before that, the moves are normal style, and those moves essentially do what they say. But, the other two styles couldn’t be more different and have very different uses.

Firstly, the Agile style lowers the damage of the move but increases your Pokémon’s speed temporarily. With the new combat system, this can lead to attacking twice before your opponent attacks, if used correctly. The Strong style is the opposite, where your move’s damage increases at the cost of temporary speed. Using this to one-shot stronger enemies can be worth the risk, but don’t be surprised if you get hit twice in a row before your next attack comes around. Having this mixed with the ability to see the upcoming six-turn order in combat means you can plan around these changes. You can see when your opponent will attack twice and adjust accordingly.

Tips for fighting wild Pokémon

Outside of the battles you’d face against other people, there are some significant tips for battling wild Pokémon.

Firstly, levels in this game don’t matter as much as they have in previous games. Arguably, the only time it matters is at the start of a battle, as higher-level Pokémon will more likely have higher speed and attack first. After that, though, type matchups and correctly timed moves can allow you to beat enemies that are double your level. Just keep in mind that they will hit back and hit hard.

In addition to that, running away can be your best friend. Sometimes, you’ll have a specific Pokémon you want to catch, but you have to battle it. If it starts getting on a roll and wiping your party, don’t be afraid to run away. If you’re trying to build friendship with your party for evolutions, a tactical retreat can be the best option in combat for Pokémon Legends: Arceus.