New generations of Pokémon games often introduce new, generation-specific mechanics to make battles more interesting. In the past, this has included Mega Evolutions, Z-Moves, Dynamaxing and, for Generation IX, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet introduces Terastallizing. The information below describes how the Terastal mechanic works and how to utilize it in your battle strategies.
What is Terastallizing?
Terastallizing is a new mechanic that changes a Pokémon’s appearance and elemental type. A large Tera Jewel will appear on a Pokémon’s head which corresponds to a Pokémon’s Tera Type and it will no longer be its regular type, but will now be the type of its Tera Type, with corresponding resistances, weaknesses and STAB bonus.
For example, if you catch a Pikachu with a Water Tera Type and send it into battle, it will be its usual Electric-type until it Terastallizes, at which point it will no longer be an Electric-type Pokémon, but instead be Water type, corresponding to its Tera Type. It will now have STAB on Water-type moves, but no longer have STAB applied to Electric-type moves.
How to Terastallize in battle
In order to have access to the Terastal mechanic in battle, you’ll need a Tera Orb. This orb will expend energy in order to Terastallize your Pokémon and must be recharged if it is fully depleted before it can be used again.
Recharging the Tera Orb can be done by finding crystals in the wild which are imbued with Terastal energy or you can visit a Pokémon Center.
Using the Terastal mechanic to your advantage in battle
There are several interesting ways to use Terastallizing to your advantage. Some of the main benefits are:
- Changing a Pokémon’s type to its corresponding Tera Type to avoid its normal weaknesses
- Turning the tables on an opponent by using an unexpected Tera Type which may counter Pokémon your opponent sent out
- Using the Tera Blast move, which will inflict damage based on your Pokémon’s Tera Type and also have its damage calculated on your stronger stat: Attack or Special Attack
