Does Terastallizing Give Extra STAB in Pokémon? The Definitive Guide

The short answer is: yes, Terastallizing can absolutely give extra STAB (Same-Type Attack Bonus) in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. The nuance, however, lies in how it grants that extra boost and under what conditions. Let’s dive deep into the mechanics of Terastallizing and STAB, exploring how this powerful combination can reshape battles in the Paldea region.

Understanding STAB and Terastallizing: A Primer

Before dissecting the interaction, let’s establish the basics.

What is STAB?

STAB stands for Same-Type Attack Bonus. It’s a damage multiplier applied when a Pokémon uses a move that matches one of its types. Traditionally, this bonus is a 1.5x increase to the move’s power. For example, a Fire-type Pokémon using a Fire-type move like Flamethrower will deal 1.5 times the damage it would otherwise inflict.

What is Terastallizing?

Terastallizing is a battle mechanic introduced in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. It allows a Pokémon to transform into a crystallized form, changing its type to a Tera Type. This transformation lasts for the duration of the battle (unless certain moves or abilities remove it) and can drastically alter a Pokémon’s strengths, weaknesses, and offensive capabilities. Crucially, this change applies defensively, replacing the original types.

The Synergy: How Terastallizing Influences STAB

Terastallizing doesn’t just change your type; it strategically adds to the STAB calculation. Here’s how it works:

1. Original STAB Remains: When a Pokémon Terastallizes, it retains the STAB bonus for moves that match its original typing. For instance, a Dragon/Flying-type Salamence that Terastallizes into a Fire-type will still receive a 1.5x STAB boost for Dragon and Flying-type moves.

2. New STAB Granted: In addition to retaining original STAB, Terastallizing grants STAB for moves that match the Pokémon’s Tera Type. Continuing the Salamence example, after Terastallizing into a Fire-type, it will also receive a 1.5x STAB bonus for Fire-type moves.

3. The Doubled STAB Scenario: This is where things get really interesting. If the Pokémon’s Tera Type is the same as one of its original types, moves of that type receive a massive 2x power boost instead of the usual 1.5x. So, if a pure Electric-type Pikachu Terastallizes into an Electric-type, its Electric-type moves will hit with double power!

Strategic Implications and Examples

This interaction opens up a vast landscape of strategic possibilities:

• Offensive Powerhouse: Terastallizing allows Pokémon to amplify their damage output with moves of their Tera Type, turning previously weak attackers into offensive threats. Imagine a Pokémon with a naturally high Attack stat but lacking a powerful STAB move in its preferred type. Terastallizing into that type can instantly fix this issue.

• Defensive Pivot: While changing offensive output, Terastallizing replaces the original defensive typing for only the Tera Type, allowing players to surprise opponents by turning weaknesses into resistances or immunities. However, the type that you terastalize into also becomes a new offensive type that affects STAB.

• Predictability Game: Choosing a Tera Type requires careful consideration of the opponent’s potential moves. A well-timed Terastallization can turn the tide of battle, while a poorly chosen one can leave your Pokémon vulnerable.

• Tera Blast: Tera Blast is a unique move that changes its type to match the user’s Tera Type after Terastallization. This guarantees a STAB-boosted attack, regardless of the user’s original typing. Tera Blast becomes a physical move when Terastallized if your attack stat is higher than your special attack stat; otherwise, it remains a special move.

Mastering Terastallizing and STAB

To truly master this mechanic, consider the following:

• Team Synergy: How does your team benefit from specific Tera Types? Can you use Terastallizing to cover weaknesses or amplify strengths across your entire team?

• Opponent Prediction: Can you anticipate your opponent’s moves and Terastallize accordingly? This requires a deep understanding of type matchups and common strategies.

• Move Coverage: Does your Pokémon have moves that cover a variety of types, allowing you to take advantage of different Tera Types?

Terastallizing introduces a new dimension of strategic depth to Pokémon battles, and the interaction with STAB is at the heart of it. By understanding the mechanics and practicing your execution, you can harness the power of Terastallizing to dominate the competition. Consider exploring resources such as the Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) for deeper insights into the strategic nuances of gameplay.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Terastallizing and STAB

1. Does Terastallizing Remove Original Types?

Yes, Terastallizing removes the original types defensively and replaces them with the Tera Type. However, the original types still factor into the STAB calculation offensively.

2. Can a Pokémon have more than one Tera Type?

No, a Pokémon can only have one Tera Type at a time. This is determined when the Pokémon is caught or bred.

3. Can Terastallizing fail?

No, the process of Terastallizing can not fail during battle; however, you can only Terastallize once per battle.

4. Does Terastallizing change Abilities?

No, Terastallizing does not change a Pokémon’s ability.

5. How do I change a Pokémon’s Tera Type?

You can change a Pokémon’s Tera Type by speaking with the chef at the Treasure Eatery in Medali and providing them with 50 Tera Shards of the desired type.

6. Does Terastallizing affect held items?

No, Terastallizing does not affect a Pokémon’s held item.

7. Can a Pokémon Terastallize multiple times in a single battle?

No, a Pokémon can only Terastallize once per battle. The transformation lasts until the battle ends or the Pokémon faints, or you have a Pokemon that uses the move “Tera Shift”.

8. Does Terastallizing affect stat boosts or reductions?

No, Terastallizing does not directly affect stat boosts or reductions. However, type changes can alter the effectiveness of certain moves and abilities that influence stats.

9. Does Terastallizing prevent status conditions?

No, Terastallizing does not prevent status conditions like paralysis, burn, or poison.

10. Does Terastallizing affect priority moves?

No, Terastallizing does not affect the priority of moves.

11. Does the move Soak work on Terastallized Pokémon?

No, Soak will fail when used against a Terastallized Pokémon.

12. Can I Terastallize in the middle of using a move?

No, you must Terastallize as an action. You can’t use a move and Terastallize during that same turn.

13. Is Terastallizing better offensively or defensively?

Terastallizing can be valuable both offensively and defensively. Offensively, it provides STAB boosts for your new Tera Type and can dramatically increase damage output. Defensively, it allows you to change your type matchups, potentially turning weaknesses into resistances.

14. What happens if my opponent uses Haze on my Terastallized Pokémon?

Haze does not affect your terastallized pokemon.

15. Does Terastallizing affect Z-Moves or Max Moves from previous generations?

No. As of this generation, Z-Moves and Max Moves no longer exist and are irrelevant to the discussion of Terastallizing.