Super Duper Effective¶

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From the onset, the game will tutor you about super and not very effective hits.

Combat in Pokémon Black & White is fast, a universal shortening of health bars means that when many creatures take a hit, they really take a hit.

Using Super Effective counters against specific enemies has always been a staple part of the Pokémon experience but it’s never been so crucial to cash in on the bonus. Likewise, it’s never been so crucial to avoid having your Pokémon whacked by something hitting for bonus damage.

Even around Level 30 and above a super effective attack can end a Pokémon’s life in one swift moment.

Three vs. Three¶

Pokémon Ruby & Sapphire were the first games to feature two vs. two encounters, and Black & White increases the number to three vs. three. These scraps take more getting used to however, with placement playing an important part.

The Pokémon in the center position (this will be the Pokémon listed second in your party) is able to direct an attack at any opposing Pokémon, while attacks that hit multiple opponents such as Surf will damage all opponents.

Meanwhile, Pokémon to the left and right are limited to damaging their rival position and the center. These battles are rare, but require extra thought in terms of placement, as you’ll want to try and keep your Pokémon in the blind zone of opponents capable of hitting them with Super Effective moves.

Rotation Battle¶

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In-game, Rotation Battles are more common in Pokemon Black.

Like Three vs. Three battles, Rotation Fights are new to the series in Black & White. These scraps see both trainers unleash three Pokémon onto a dial that can be rotated left and right, hence the name.

Only one Pokémon is fighting at any given time in a Rotation Battle but both players can rotate the dial at the start of a turn so that a different Pokémon is made ‘active’ before both the active ‘mon unleash a pre-decided attack.

This leads to mind games that rival Vegas as players try to guess and second-guess whether there will be a rotation or whether to attack. Easily the most confusing addition, but if you ask us status changes like Sleep and Poison are king in these mental mash-ups.