Embody Aspect (Wellspring) - Ability ID 798

In-Game Description

"+1 Spdef on Entry."

Extended In-Game Description

For use in Elite Redux extended ability UI (IMPORTANT: exactly 280-300 chars counted WITH spaces)

Embody Aspect (Wellspring) raises the Pokémon's Special Defense by one stage when it switches into battle. This variant is exclusive to Ogerpon's Wellspring Mask form, reflecting its defensive Water-type capabilities. Works only once per switch-in, stacking with other stat-boosting effects.

Character count: 291

Detailed Mechanical Explanation

For Discord/reference use

Core Mechanics

• Effect: Raises Special Defense by +1 stage (50% increase) when switching into battle
• Trigger: Activates immediately upon switching in, before any other battle actions
• Type: Entry-based stat boost ability
• Frequency: Once per switch-in (resets when Pokémon switches out and back in)

Activation Conditions

• Must successfully switch into battle (not when battle starts with this Pokémon already out)
• Special Defense must be capable of being raised (not already at +6 or blocked by effects)
• Works regardless of HP, status conditions, or opponent's abilities

Technical Implementation

constexpr Ability EmbodyAspectWellspring = {
    .onEntry = +[](ON_ENTRY) -> int {
        CHECK(CanRaiseStat(battler, STAT_SPDEF))

        SetStatChanger(STAT_SPDEF, 1);
        BattleScriptPushCursorAndCallback(BattleScript_BattlerAbilityStatRaiseOnSwitchIn);
        return TRUE;
    },
};

Stat Boost Details

• +1 Special Defense: Multiplies Special Defense by 1.5x (equivalent to 50% increase)
• Stacking: Combines multiplicatively with other stat modifiers
• Duration: Lasts until the Pokémon switches out or faints
• Maximum: Cannot exceed +6 Special Defense stages

Interactions with Other Abilities/Mechanics

• Clear Body/White Smoke: Protects the stat boost from being lowered by opponents
• Simple: Doubles the stat boost to +2 Special Defense
• Contrary: Would lower Special Defense by 1 stage instead (theoretical interaction)
• Intimidate: Ability activates after Intimidate, so both effects apply
• Competitive/Defiant: Does not trigger these abilities as it's a self-boost

Strategic Implications

• Defensive Pivot: Excellent for switch-in utility, making Ogerpon immediately bulkier
• Setup Potential: Provides immediate defensive presence for setting up or tanking hits
• Type Synergy: Complements Water-type's natural special bulk in the Wellspring form
• Form Specialization: Each Embody Aspect variant boosts different stats (Speed/Attack/Defense/Special Defense)

Example Damage Calculations

With base 156 Special Defense at level 100:

• No boost: 364 Special Defense
• +1 boost: 546 Special Defense (50% increase)
• Against 100 power special move: ~33% damage reduction compared to unboosted

Common Users

• Ogerpon (Wellspring Mask): Only Pokémon with this specific ability variant
• Form Requirements: Must be holding Wellspring Mask to have this ability
• Mega Evolution: Ogerpon Wellspring Mask Mega retains this ability

Competitive Usage Notes

• Entry Hazard Synergy: Allows safer switches into Stealth Rock/Spikes damage
• Pivot Role: Enables hit-and-run tactics with improved special bulk
• Coverage: Wellspring form typically runs Water/Grass moves with special attack focus
• Team Support: Can switch in on special attackers more safely

Counters

• Physical Attacks: Does not boost Defense, vulnerable to physical moves
• Stat Reset: Haze, Clear Smog, or switching out removes the boost
• Infiltrator: Bypasses stat boosts when using moves through substitutes
• Critical Hits: Ignore positive stat modifications

Synergies

• Assault Vest: Stacks with the Special Defense boost for extreme special bulk
• Leftovers: Provides sustain to take advantage of the improved bulk
• U-turn/Volt Switch: Allows repeated use of the ability through frequent switching
• Rapid Spin/Defog: Support to enable safer switching

Version History

• Generation 9: Introduced with Ogerpon and its mask forms
• Elite Redux: Implemented as part of the Embody Aspect ability family
• Current Status: Fully functional with proper stat boost mechanics