How does Synchronize Work in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Playing Pokémon is not just catching them, battle and repeat. There are a lot of abilities, mechanics and other factors that contribute to the success of any given battle or even the balance of the game itself when travelling the world. One of those abilities that have been very impactful throughout the franchise history has been the Synchronize ability. Used for catching Pokémon and for battle as well, it has been a stable and a useful tool to progress further in any Pokémon game. However, now with the new Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, the Synchronize effect has suffered several changes that will impact its importance and usage in the franchise as we know it. How does Synchronize work in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet? Let’s talk about it.

How does Synchronize Work

The Synchronize effect or ability used to have two purposes in the Pokémon games. One was during battle, that consisted that whenever a Pokémon with Synchronize was inflicted a status condition such as burned or poisoned, the same status condition was applied to the attacking Pokémon. The other was outside of battle, that consisted that whenever a Pokémon with Synchronize led the party, whatever Pokémon you encountered in the wild will be of the same nature as the leading Pokémon. Nature hunting was a crucial part of breeding for the best Pokémon stats. However, in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, the Nature Hunting ability has been removed, limiting the Synchronize ability to battle only.

Related: How do Affection Bonuses Work in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet?

Whatever the reasons that led to this change, it is really difficult to explain it or understand it, since it has been a staple throughout the series. Maybe they patch it later, but as of now, Synchronize is just a battle effect. And that’s it.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet is available on Nintendo Switch. If you like our Pokémon content, be sure to check out Are There Square Shinies in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?, and How to Check Pokemon’s Stats, IVs, EVs, and Natures in Scarlet and Violet.