What Does the Ability Torment Do?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The core function of Torment in the Pokémon world is to prevent a target from using the same move consecutively. In essence, if a Pokémon is afflicted by Torment, it cannot select the move it used in the previous turn. This seemingly simple restriction can significantly impact a battle’s flow and is particularly potent against opponents who rely on a limited move pool or who favor powerful, but single-use, moves. However, it’s crucial to note that Torment doesn’t prevent a Pokémon from using any move at all; it solely restricts repeating the move used in the immediately preceding turn. If the afflicted Pokémon is forced to use the same move multiple times due to restrictions (such as being under the effect of Choice items or Encore) it will be forced to Struggle every second turn.
Understanding Torment’s Mechanics
How Torment Works in Practice
To illustrate how Torment functions, consider the following example: A Pokémon uses Flamethrower against an opponent, and the opponent is subsequently afflicted by Torment. The opponent, in the following turn, cannot select Flamethrower. They must choose another available move. However, if they use any other move, they can once again select Flamethrower in the subsequent turn. This cycle of restriction continues as long as Torment remains active on the Pokémon. A key point to remember is that if a Pokémon selects the move it used last turn, but then becomes affected with Torment, the move will still be executed in the current turn. The restriction only takes effect from the next turn.
Torment and Choice Items
A unique situation arises when a Pokémon under the effect of a Choice item is affected by Torment. Since Choice items force Pokémon to use only one move, they are essentially trapped by Torment. This means that on every second turn, they are forced to use Struggle, because their held choice item makes them unable to select a move different to the one they used on the previous turn, in accordance with the rules of Torment.
The Impact on Different Move Types
Torment is effective against all direct attack moves but is also particularly disruptive against status moves. Pokémon that rely on buffing moves such as Swords Dance or Calm Mind, are also highly susceptible to torment. It is less effective against moves that last multiple turns such as Outrage, Thrash or Petal Dance.
Torment: A Strategic Approach
Torment has a permanent and temporary rating. The temporary rating will either increase or decrease depending on your good or bad deeds, however this rating will not affect the demon. If the temporary rating reaches 10, it will be converted into a single point of permanent Torment.
Torment in PvP Battles
In player versus player battles, the main use of Torment is to disrupt your opponent’s strategy. For example, if an opponent is relying heavily on a specific attack such as Earthquake, you can force them to use other, potentially less effective, moves. It can also be useful against opponents using recovery moves by making it harder for them to use these moves consecutively.
Torment as a Mind Game
Torment’s use is not just in tactical disruption but can also serve as a mind game. Opponents aware of Torment’s effects might overthink their move selections, sometimes causing them to make more mistakes or opt for suboptimal plays. This makes it an intriguing tool in the arsenal of a skilled player.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Torment a good move?
Torment is a strategically powerful move that can be useful when facing opponents that rely on a limited movepool. It can be particularly effective against opponents who prefer to use a single move in succession. However, it is often harder to predict as it is always used after a move.
2. How much damage does Torment do?
In the game this information was extracted from the damage of Torment is determined by the following formula: While moving (PvE only): (0.06 * Condition Damage) + (0.25 * Level) + 2 damage per stack per second, (0.06 * Condition Damage) + 22 damage per stack per second at level 80.
3. What happens if you Torment a Choice Pokémon?
If a Pokémon is holding a Choice item (e.g., Choice Band, Choice Scarf), it will be forced to use Struggle every other turn, making the held item’s restriction a considerable handicap.
4. Is Torment permanent?
Torment can be both temporary and permanent, depending on the conditions in the game in which this information was extracted from. However, in standard Pokémon games, Torment is a status condition that lasts until switched out or cured.
5. How long can someone stay awake?
This question is unrelated to the move Torment in the context of Pokémon. It appears to be a question of general knowledge.
6. How do you use Torment?
In the context of Pokémon, Torment is used as a move in battle. A player uses the move against an enemy, applying the status condition.
7. How do you unlock Torment 4?
In the context of the game this information was extracted from, you unlock World Tier 4: Torment by completing the Fallen Temple Capstone Dungeon while in World Tier 3, in the Northeastern Dry Steppes region.
8. Can you use Taunt and Torment at the same time?
Yes, you can use Taunt and Torment on the same opponent. Doing so can be strategically powerful to force a target to use Struggle.
9. Can self-destruct miss Pokémon?
Yes, Self-Destruct fails if the move misses or the target is immune to the move.
10. Does Fake Out work on Dark types?
No, Fake Out does not work on Dark types as dark types are immune to flinch inducing moves.
11. What level should I start Torment?
There is no minimum level required to enter Torment levels in the game this information was extracted from, but enemies are typically level 70+.
12. What moves never miss in Pokémon?
Certain moves like Aura Sphere, Hazard Moves, Whirlwind, Roar, Yawn, Pain Split, Clear Smog, Flower Trick, Mean Look and Block, never miss.
13. Does Torment work on Outrage?
Torment does not stop multi-turn moves like Outrage, Thrash, or Petal Dance.
14. Can shiny Voltorb Self-Destruct?
Yes, a shiny Voltorb can use Self-Destruct.
15. Which Pokémon can’t be Taunted?
Pokémon with the abilities Oblivious or under the effect of Aroma Veil cannot be taunted. In addition, Dark-type Pokémon and Pokemon with the ability Unaware cannot be taunted.
In conclusion, Torment is a versatile status condition that can significantly alter the strategic landscape of Pokémon battles. By preventing a target from using the same move consecutively, it can disrupt predictable patterns and turn the tide of battle. Understanding how it interacts with various abilities, items, and moves is key to effectively utilizing it in your competitive arsenal.