Can You Get a Scorbunny with Libero? A Deep Dive into the Fiery Rabbit’s Hidden Ability
Yes, you absolutely can get a Scorbunny with the Hidden Ability Libero! However, obtaining one requires understanding a few key mechanics within the Pokémon games, specifically Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, where Libero was first introduced, and later titles. This article will explore exactly how to acquire a Scorbunny with this coveted ability, the powerful effect it has on battles, and answer related frequently asked questions (FAQs).
What is Libero and Why is it So Desirable?
The Core of Libero: Type Shifting Power
Libero is a unique Hidden Ability that belongs to the Scorbunny evolutionary line: Scorbunny, Raboot, and Cinderace. It’s a game-changer, and what makes it so powerful lies in its effect. The ability changes the Pokémon’s type to the same type as the move it’s about to use. This happens only once each time the Pokémon enters the battle. Think of it as a chameleon, perfectly adapting to its current attack. This adaptability allows Libero users to consistently deliver attacks with a STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus), regardless of their initial typing.
Why Libero Makes Cinderace a Threat
With Libero, Cinderace becomes an unpredictable offensive powerhouse. For example, if Cinderace uses a Fighting-type move like Double Kick, it will change to a Fighting-type, therefore gaining a 50% damage increase due to STAB. If it follows up with a Fire-type move like Pyro Ball, it will instantly switch to a Fire-type and also benefit from the STAB bonus of that move. This ability to switch types with each move is what makes Cinderace with Libero so formidable. It essentially turns any move it has into a STAB powered strike.
How to Obtain a Libero Scorbunny
The Origins in Pokemon Sword and Shield
Originally, getting a Libero Scorbunny was quite a challenge in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield. Initially, Scorbunny received as a starter did not come with its Hidden Ability. The primary method for obtaining one was through special events or through breeding.
Breeding for Hidden Abilities
The most reliable way is through breeding. If you had a Cinderace or a Raboot with the Libero ability (often obtained through events or Max Raid Battles), you could breed it with a Ditto or another member of its evolutionary line. There is a chance that the resulting offspring would inherit the Hidden Ability, but it is not guaranteed.
Trading and Event Pokémon
Another avenue was through trading with other players, especially those who had participated in past events that offered Libero Scorbunny. Keep an eye out for future event distributions as they can offer easier methods to obtain this Pokemon.
Moving Forward into Scarlet & Violet and Beyond
In later games, such as Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet, the methods of obtaining Pokémon with their Hidden Abilities are generally similar. You could still rely on breeding, with the introduction of items like the Ability Patch, allowing you to directly change a Pokemon’s ability to its Hidden Ability. These items allow for more control but are often obtained through completing challenging battles like Tera Raid Battles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Libero exclusive to the Scorbunny line?
Yes. Libero is currently exclusive to the Scorbunny evolutionary line. No other Pokemon currently has access to this ability.
2. Can a starter Pokémon have a Hidden Ability?
Yes, starter Pokémon can have Hidden Abilities. While they don’t always start with them, they can be obtained through breeding and events.
3. How does Libero differ from Protean?
Libero and Protean have an identical function: they change the user’s type to match the type of the move used. However, Libero is the signature ability for Cinderace, while Protean is exclusive to other Pokémon lines.
4. Is Libero only active once per battle?
No, Libero’s type-changing effect activates once every time the Pokemon enters the battle. If Cinderace switches out and then back in, Libero will activate again.
5. Why is Cinderace with Libero considered so strong?
The ability to gain a STAB boost with every move, along with Cinderace’s already high Attack and Speed stats, makes it an offensive threat capable of dealing significant damage.
6. Can Libero change to the same type multiple times in a row?
Yes, if Cinderace uses the same move type consecutively, it will repeatedly change to that type each time. For example, using Double Kick twice will turn it into a Fighting-type twice.
7. Can I get Libero Scorbunny in Pokémon Legends: Arceus?
No. Hidden Abilities, like Libero, were not a factor in Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
8. Is Scorbunny weak?
As a pure Fire-type, Scorbunny is vulnerable to Water, Rock, and Ground-type attacks. However, it is resistant to Grass, Ice, Bug, and Steel. With Libero however, its typing is constantly changing to match its attack.
9. What are the best moves for Cinderace with Libero?
A diverse set of move types is ideal for Cinderace with Libero. Examples include Pyro Ball (Fire), High Jump Kick (Fighting), Iron Head (Steel), and Sucker Punch (Dark), enabling it to hit many types for super-effective damage, as well as giving it a move pool to take advantage of its changing STAB boost.
10. What Pokémon are good counters for Libero Cinderace?
Psychic-types and Flying-types can handle a Fighting Tera-type Cinderace. However, its constant type-shifting makes it difficult to counter.
11. Can a Libero user switch to a move that’s ineffective?
Yes, Libero will still change the user to the type of the move used, even if the attack is ineffective, or does no damage. However, if it changes to an advantageous type then its moves will be highly effective.
12. Is Libero Cinderace banned from competitive battles?
In past formats, Cinderace with Libero has been considered too powerful and has been banned. It’s usually a format-dependent restriction. It’s important to check current tournament and competitive rulings.
13. Can a Libero Cinderace learn Double Kick?
Yes, Cinderace can learn Double Kick, which is a Fighting-type move, which pairs excellently with Libero.
14. Does Libero affect a Pokémon’s Tera Type?
No, Libero only changes the base type of the Pokémon. It does not interact with Tera Types.
15. Is breeding the only way to get a Scorbunny with a Hidden Ability?
While breeding is the most reliable method, special event distributions and trades from other players can also yield Scorbunny with Libero.
Conclusion: Unleash the Power of Libero
Obtaining a Scorbunny with the Libero ability is a rewarding challenge. This powerful ability transforms Cinderace into a highly adaptable and formidable offensive threat. Whether you are a competitive player or simply enjoy building strong teams, a Libero Cinderace is a valuable addition to your roster. Keep exploring, breeding, and participating in events to add this powerful Pokemon to your collection!