Does Recycle Work on Power Herb? A Deep Dive into Pokémon Mechanics and Recycling Realities
Yes, Recycle works on Power Herb in the Pokémon metagame! This means a Pokémon can use a Power Herb to bypass the charge turn of moves like Sky Attack or Solar Beam, and then at the end of the same turn, the Power Herb will be restored to the Pokémon via the Recycle effect, ready for use again in subsequent turns.
This mechanic has significant implications for competitive play, as it opens up strategies that allow Pokémon to repeatedly unleash powerful charge-up moves without the usual charge turn restriction. It’s a powerful combination, and understanding how it works is essential for both casual and competitive players. This is especially true in fan-made formats like “Recyclables” where this effect is amplified.
Understanding How Recycle Functions in Pokémon
The Core Mechanic
The move Recycle allows a Pokémon to recover a consumed held item during battle. This means that if a Pokémon uses an item like a Berry (which is consumed upon use), it can use Recycle on a subsequent turn to regain that Berry. The critical element here is that the item must be consumed, not removed or switched.
Recycle will fail if the Pokémon is already holding an item or if the item was removed by other means like Knock Off. Additionally, the held item is not forgotten, so switching out and back in will not change if the Pokémon has a held item or not.
The Power Herb Exception
The Power Herb is a unique item because it’s not consumed by every use. Rather it is consumed when a charging move is used. When a Pokémon holding a Power Herb uses a two-turn move, the Power Herb allows it to execute the move in a single turn. The item is then consumed in the process.
This is where the synergy with Recycle becomes apparent. Because the Power Herb is consumed, not stolen or knocked off, it becomes an eligible item to be restored by Recycle, opening up the potential for repeated use in every turn if the “Recyclables” format is enabled.
The “Recyclables” Metagame
In the “Recyclables” metagame, the effects of the move Recycle are applied to every Pokémon on the field, every turn. This means if a Pokemon used a Power Herb in turn one, they are able to use the Power Herb again, every turn. This creates an environment where item-based strategies are highly valuable.
In this format, a Pokémon like Hawlucha, with access to Sky Attack and the Power Herb, becomes a formidable threat, able to launch powerful, boosted attacks repeatedly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Recycle and Related Mechanics
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further explore the nuances of Recycle and its interaction with other game mechanics:
1. What Items Can Be Restored with Recycle?
Recycle primarily restores consumed items such as:
- Berries (e.g., Sitrus Berry, Lum Berry)
- Power Herb
- Items consumed by moves like Bug Bite, Pluck, Fling, and Natural Gift
- Focus Sash (when consumed)
2. Can Recycle Restore Items Removed by Knock Off?
No, Recycle cannot restore items removed by Knock Off. Knock Off renders a held item unusable for the rest of the battle and even if the Pokémon switches out, they will not be able to use their item again.
3. Can Recycle Restore Items Switched by Trick or Thief?
No, Recycle cannot restore items switched via Trick or Thief. These moves involve transferring the item to another Pokémon, rather than consuming it, meaning Recycle cannot recover them.
4. Does Recycle Work with Weakness Policy?
Yes, Recycle can restore a consumed Weakness Policy, allowing for multiple activations if the setup allows, such as a format like “Recyclables.” Appletun is often cited as a good Pokémon to utilize this combo due to its good bulk and access to recovery moves.
5. Does Recycle Work with Focus Sash?
Yes, Recycle works with Focus Sash. If a Pokémon uses Focus Sash to survive an attack and then uses Recycle, the Focus Sash can be recovered. If the Pokémon can use a recovery move to restore their HP above the Focus Sash requirement, they can reuse the Focus Sash. This is another combo that can be powerful.
6. Can you recycle lever arch folders?
Yes, you can recycle lever arch folders. Remove the metal lever arch panel from the binder. If made of cardboard place it all in the recycling bin, if the folder is plastic, place the panel in the recycling bin and the folder in the garbage.
7. Can you recycle glossy folders?
Yes, glossy paper can be recycled if it does not have a plastic coating. If the paper tears easily, it should be okay. If unsure, it’s best to dispose of it in the garbage.
8. Can clay be recycled after bisque firing?
No, clay cannot be recycled after being bisque-fired. Only greenware clay (unfired clay) can be recycled and reclaimed. Firing changes the clay’s chemical composition.
9. Does Knock Off permanently remove items?
Yes, Knock Off renders a target’s held item unusable for the rest of the battle, even if switched out. The item remains visible in the status screen, but cannot be used, restored by Recycle or replaced.
10. What are the main issues with recycling?
The main issues with recycling include:
- Poor recycling quality due to lack of education.
- Safety concerns for workers.
- Expensive or inadequate services.
- Low market demand for recycled materials.
11. What is a major drawback of recycling?
A major drawback of recycling is that materials can only be recycled a limited number of times due to degradation, also known as downcycling. Not all materials can be recycled.
12. What are three disadvantages of recycling?
Three disadvantages of recycling are:
- Recycling uses energy.
- Recycling can lead to pollution.
- Recycling can be costly.
13. Can Pokemon wrappers be recycled?
Yes, the plastic wrapper of Pokémon booster packs, as well as the cardboard from the packs and boxes, are typically considered recyclable. The plastic trays inside collection boxes are also recyclable. Always check local guidelines for specific requirements.
14. Can you transfer Pokemon items?
No, items cannot be transferred between Pokémon games via Pokémon Bank or Pokémon Home. Items are always returned to the player’s bag when transferring Pokémon.
15. What is the difference between counterfeit and Knock Off?
A counterfeit product is made to look exactly like the original, including the brand name and logo. A knock off product will have a similar design but won’t include the trademarked name or logo. They aim to be similar, but not to be a duplicate of the original. In the context of Pokemon, the move “Knock Off” removes the item of another player.
Conclusion
The interaction between Recycle and the Power Herb, especially in formats like “Recyclables,” highlights the depth and strategic potential of the Pokémon battling system. Understanding these mechanics and nuances is not only crucial for competitive success but also enhances the enjoyment and depth of the game for any player. This unique interaction opens the door for creative strategies and pushes players to think outside the box, making the game more engaging and dynamic. By utilizing the power of Recycle and other niche item effects, players can discover unique and powerful combinations.