Can Imprison Be Baton Passed? Unraveling the Complexities of Pokémon Moves
The world of Pokémon battles is full of intricate mechanics, and understanding the nuances of each move is crucial for success. One frequently asked question revolves around the interplay of two powerful moves: Imprison and Baton Pass. Let’s delve into the details.
The Definitive Answer: Imprison and Baton Pass
The short and direct answer is no, Imprison cannot be passed by Baton Pass. This is a fundamental rule of the game. When a Pokémon uses Baton Pass, it transfers stat boosts, debuffs, and certain other conditions to the incoming Pokémon. However, the effects of Imprison are not included in the list of transferable conditions. The restrictive effect of Imprison is tied to the Pokémon that used it and lasts only as long as that specific Pokémon remains on the battlefield.
Imprison: A Move Restriction Mechanic
Imprison is a Psychic-type move that prevents opponents from using any move that the user also knows. This can be a powerful tool for limiting an opponent’s options, but its effectiveness is linked to the user’s presence in battle. Crucially, once the user of Imprison switches out (or faints), its effects immediately disappear. The restriction does not carry over to any subsequent Pokémon, regardless of whether Baton Pass is used or not.
Baton Pass: The Transfer Mechanism
Baton Pass is a unique move that allows a Pokémon to switch out while passing its stat changes and some other conditions to the incoming Pokémon. This move is often used to set up powerful offensive threats by transferring accumulated boosts like Agility or Swords Dance. However, while Baton Pass can transfer stat boosts, debuffs, and some status conditions, it cannot transfer the effects of Imprison, making these two moves mutually exclusive in their effects.
15 Frequently Asked Questions About Imprison and Baton Pass
To further clarify the dynamics of these moves and their interactions, here are 15 frequently asked questions:
1. What Exactly Does Imprison Do?
Imprison prevents the target from using any moves that the user also has in its moveset. The effect lasts as long as the user remains in battle. For example, if a Pokémon that knows Protect also uses Imprison, the opponent cannot use Protect as long as the user stays in battle.
2. How Long Does the Effect of Imprison Last?
The effect of Imprison lasts only as long as the Pokémon that used it remains on the field. Once the user switches out or faints, the effect is immediately terminated, without passing on to other Pokémon.
3. Can Imprison Prevent the Opponent From Using Protect?
Yes, if you use Imprison and also know Protect, your opponent will be unable to use Protect while you remain in battle. This highlights a strategic consideration in move selection when using Imprison.
4. Does Switching Out End the Effect of Imprison?
Yes, switching out the Pokémon that used Imprison immediately ends the effect of the move. There is no carry-over.
5. Is Baton Pass a Priority Move?
Baton Pass has normal priority, meaning it goes after moves with higher priority but before moves with lower priority. It is not faster than switching out directly.
6. What Conditions Are Passed By Baton Pass?
Baton Pass transfers stat boosts (like those from Agility or Swords Dance), debuffs (from moves like Leer or Growl), and some other conditions to the Pokémon being switched in. However, this does not include conditions like the effects of Imprison.
7. Why Would Baton Pass Fail?
Baton Pass fails if there are no other Pokémon in the user’s party that can be switched in, or if the user is trapped.
8. Does Imprison Work in Raid Battles?
Imprison can be used in Max Raid Battles and Tera Raid Battles. However, the raid boss is immune to Imprison’s effects. Thus, using it is usually ineffective.
9. Can a Pokémon Use the Same Move Twice in a Row?
Normally, yes. However, if the Pokémon is affected by Torment, it cannot use the same move twice in a row. But note that Torment is also not passed by Baton Pass.
10. Does Feint Break Protect?
Yes, Feint is an offensive move that can bypass the effects of Protect or Detect, allowing the user to deal damage even when the opponent is protected.
11. Can a Fainted Pokémon Be Healed?
Potions cannot revive a fainted Pokémon. Revives are used to bring back fainted Pokémon, with Max Revives restoring all of their HP and standard Revives restoring some HP.
12. Where is Baton Pass Banned?
Baton Pass has been banned in certain formats such as Gen 5 OU on Pokemon Showdown, due to its potential to create unbalanced teams.
13. Can Yawn be Baton Passed?
No, Drowsiness from Yawn cannot be passed by Baton Pass. If a drowsy Pokémon switches out, it loses its drowsiness.
14. How Can You Counter a Baton Pass Team?
A good counter to Baton Pass teams is to use powerful sweepers, spam offensive attacks, and apply pressure consistently. Being aggressive from the start can prevent the opposing team from building a strong stat setup.
15. Can You Baton Pass the Stat Boost From Z-Imprison?
While Z-Imprison raises the user’s Special Defense by two stages, it does not grant the Z-move’s associated effect to the next Pokémon if the user switches out with Baton Pass. The stat boost from the Z-move is passed, but Imprison is not.
Conclusion
Understanding the limitations and capabilities of moves like Imprison and Baton Pass is essential for strategic play in Pokémon battles. While Baton Pass is a powerful mechanism for transferring stat boosts and certain other conditions, it cannot transfer the effects of Imprison. The move restriction caused by Imprison remains tied solely to the Pokémon that used it and ends the moment they leave the battlefield. By understanding these rules, players can develop more effective strategies and navigate the intricacies of Pokémon combat with greater confidence.