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Is Return a Powerful Move? A Comprehensive Guide

The answer is nuanced. Return’s power depends heavily on the specific game and context. In the mainline Pokémon games, it can be a very powerful Normal-type move with no drawbacks, provided the Pokémon wielding it has high friendship. In Pokémon GO, its utility is more situational, depending on whether you’re battling in Gyms/Raids or in GO Battle League. Let’s delve deeper into the intricacies of Return and its effectiveness.

Return in the Core Pokémon Games

The Power of Friendship

The beauty (and potential frustration) of Return in the main series lies in its mechanic: its base power directly correlates to the Pokémon’s friendship level with its trainer. A Pokémon at maximum friendship will unleash Return at its full potential, boasting a base power of 102. This is significant, as it is one of the strongest Normal-type moves without any negative side effects.

Think of it this way: a Pokémon that loves you is going to put its heart and soul into the attack, resulting in greater damage. The opposite is also true – a neglected Pokémon will deliver a weak Return. This emphasis on the bond between trainer and Pokémon adds a unique dimension to its gameplay, reinforcing the emotional connection that the franchise is known for.

Return vs. Other Normal-Type Moves

How does Return stack up against other Normal-type moves? Well, it often outshines options like Strength or Body Slam in terms of raw power. While Body Slam has a chance to paralyze the target, Return delivers consistent, high damage without any strings attached. This reliability makes it a popular choice for Normal-type physical attackers like Snorlax or Staraptor.

However, moves like Explosion boast significantly higher base power but at the cost of the user fainting. Hyper Beam has a higher base power but requires a recharge turn. Thus, Return occupies a sweet spot of being powerful and reliable.

Return in Pokémon GO

Gyms and Raids vs. GO Battle League

The effectiveness of Return in Pokémon GO is bifurcated. In Gyms and Raids, it is generally considered a lackluster move. It deals only 35 damage at a cost of 33 energy. This makes it relatively slow and weak compared to other charge moves available.

However, in GO Battle League, Return transforms into a more potent weapon. It deals a considerable 130 damage but costs a hefty 70 energy. This high energy cost means that Pokémon need to have excellent energy generation capabilities to effectively utilize Return in player-versus-player battles.

Purified Pokémon and Return

Return in Pokémon GO is intrinsically linked to Purified Pokémon. When you purify a Shadow Pokémon, it forgets the Frustration charged move and learns Return. This makes Return readily available on Purified Pokémon, often improving their viability in trainer battles.

The boost to stats (HP, Attack, and Defense) that a Purified Pokémon receives, coupled with the decent damage output of Return, makes it a worthwhile move for many Pokémon.

The Importance of STAB

Don’t forget about the Same-Type Attack Bonus (STAB)! When a Pokémon uses a move that matches its type, the move receives a 50% damage boost. So, if a Normal-type Pokémon uses Return, the damage output will be significantly higher. This is a key factor to consider when evaluating the overall effectiveness of Return.

Return: A Powerful Move? FAQs

Here are 15 Frequently Asked Questions about Return that will help you better understand its utility:

Is Return the strongest Normal-type move overall?

Not always. Moves like Explosion have higher base power, but at the cost of the user fainting. Hyper Beam has a high base power but requires a recharge turn. Return is the strongest Normal-type move without significant drawbacks if friendship is maxed.
How do I maximize the power of Return in the core Pokémon games?

Maximize your Pokémon’s friendship level. This can be achieved by battling with them, giving them items, and generally caring for them in the game.
Is Return a good move for Snorlax?

Yes, especially in the core games. Snorlax is a Normal-type Pokémon with high attack and benefits from STAB when using Return. In Pokémon GO, other charge moves might be better, depending on the battle format.
Can I teach Return to any Pokémon?

No, Return is generally only available on Purified Pokémon in Pokémon GO. In the main series games, it can be learned via TM or move tutor, depending on the generation.
Is it worth purifying a Shadow Pokémon just for Return?

It depends. If the Shadow Pokémon has poor IVs, purifying it can improve its stats. If it already has good IVs as a Shadow, the shadow bonus to damage might be more beneficial. Consider your needs and resources.
Is Return better than Frustration?

Yes. Both moves are equally powerful at full power anyway. They both have have the same base power but it is much easier to get to get max Return than Frustration.
What is the highest possible damage Return can deal in Pokémon GO?

The highest damage it can deal is 130 in GO Battle League.
What is the strongest type of move in Pokemon?

Normal-type moves are the strongest moves in Pokémon and deals 250 damage.
Is Return affected by STAB in Pokémon GO?

Yes, Return receives a STAB bonus if used by a Normal-type Pokémon.
Does Return have different effects in different Pokémon games?

Yes. In main series games, its power is determined by friendship. In Pokémon GO, it’s a fixed value that differs between Gyms/Raids and GO Battle League.
Are there any Pokémon that particularly benefit from Return in Pokémon GO?

Purified Sableye is a notable example. Its relatively low attack stat is compensated by the consistent damage output of Return.
Can Return be dodged in Pokémon GO battles?

Yes, like most charge moves, Return can be dodged in Pokémon GO trainer battles.
How does Return compare to Body Slam on Snorlax in Pokémon GO?

Body Slam has a lower energy cost and can be used more frequently. Return hits harder but is slower. The choice depends on your preferred playstyle.
If I evolve a Shadow Pokémon, can I still purify it later and get Return?

Yes, you can still purify a Shadow Pokémon after it has been evolved.
Where can I learn more about Pokémon strategies and game mechanics?

Explore resources like Games Learning Society which researches how people learn and what they learn from playing, designing, and critiquing games. You can also learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the power of Return is highly contextual. In the mainline games, a Pokémon with maximum friendship can unleash a devastating Normal-type attack. In Pokémon GO, it’s a more niche move, useful primarily on Purified Pokémon, especially in GO Battle League. Ultimately, understanding the specific game mechanics and your Pokémon’s stats and abilities is crucial to determining whether Return is a powerful choice for your team.

Is Return a powerful move?