Pokémon Catch Rate Calculator (Gen 7)
Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon Mechanics
How Gen 7 Catch Rates Work
In Generation 7 (Pokémon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon), the catch rate formula underwent minor refinements from previous generations. The core mechanic relies on a value known as "a," which determines the raw capture strength before checking for the specific "shake" mechanics.
The Catch Formula (a)
a = (((3 * MaxHP – 2 * CurrentHP) * Rate * Ball) / (3 * MaxHP)) * Status * Roto
Key Multipliers in Alola
- Status Conditions: Sleep and Freeze are the most effective, providing a 2.5x boost. Paralysis, Burn, and Poison provide 1.5x.
- Roto Catch: A new mechanic in Ultra Sun/Ultra Moon via the Roto Loto, providing a massive 1.5x multiplier to the final catch value.
- Species Rate: Every Pokémon has a hidden catch rate. Legendary Pokémon like Solgaleo or Necrozma usually have a rate of 3 or 45, making them significantly harder to catch than a Caterpie (255).
Probability vs. Guaranteed Catch
If the calculated value "a" is 255 or higher, the Pokémon is guaranteed to be caught. If it is lower, the game performs a secondary calculation to determine the probability of each "shake" of the Poké Ball. Specifically, the game calculates a value "b" and checks it against four random numbers. Our calculator simplifies this into a final percentage chance of success per ball thrown.
Pro-Tips for Gen 7 Catching
- False Swipe: Always use False Swipe to bring the Pokémon down to exactly 1 HP without knocking it out.
- Dusk Balls: Since Gen 7 features many caves and a day/night cycle, Dusk Balls are often your best friend with a 3x multiplier.
- Adrenaline Orbs: In SOS battles, the catch rate can be affected by the length of the battle and whether the Pokémon is an ally or the original encounter.