Chuckster (N) - Ability Analysis

ID: 864
Type: Innate Ability (N)
Original Description: "Once per entry, take 1/2 damage and force-switch the target."

Extended In-Game Description

For use in Elite Redux extended ability UI (IMPORTANT: exactly 280-300 chars counted WITH spaces) When this Pokémon first takes damage after entering battle, it reduces that damage by half and forces the attacking opponent to switch out immediately. This protective effect only activates once per battle entry, making it a powerful one-time defensive tool against physical and special attacks alike.

Implementation Details

File Location: src/abilities.cc (line ~8767)

Current Implementation:

constexpr Ability Chuckster = {
    .breakable = TRUE,
};

Ability ID: 864 (ABILITY_CHUCKSTER)

Mechanical Analysis

1. Trigger Condition: First damage taken after entering battle
2. Effect 1: Reduces incoming damage by 50%
3. Effect 2: Forces the attacker to switch out (similar to moves like Dragon Tail/Circle Throw)
4. Frequency: Once per battle entry (resets if the Pokémon switches out and back in)
5. Breakable: Yes (ability can be suppressed by Mold Breaker, etc.)

Strategic Implications

• Defensive Utility: Provides immediate survivability boost upon entry
• Momentum Control: Forces opponent switches, potentially disrupting their strategy
• Entry Hazard Synergy: Forced switches activate entry hazards on the opponent
• One-Time Use: Must be used strategically as it only works once per battle entry

Comparison to Similar Abilities

• Disguise: Blocks one hit completely but doesn't force switches
• Ice Face: Blocks physical damage once but doesn't force switches
• Emergency Exit/Wimp Out: Forces self to switch rather than opponent

Notes

• The (N) designation indicates this is an innate ability in Elite Redux's 4-ability system
• Implementation appears minimal in current codebase, suggesting functionality may be handled elsewhere in battle system
• Classified as "breakable" meaning it can be suppressed by abilities like Mold Breaker