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How to Use the Pokémon Damage Calculator
Whether you are a competitive VGC player or a casual trainer exploring the Paldea or Galar regions, understanding how much damage your move will do is vital. This Pokémon damage calculator allows you to input specific battle parameters to predict how much HP your opponent will lose.
To use the tool, follow these steps:
- Attacker Level
- The current level of the attacking Pokémon (usually 50 for competitive play or 100 for max stats).
- Attack/Defense Stats
- Use the relevant category. If using a physical move like Earthquake, use Attack and Defense. For special moves like Thunderbolt, use Special Attack and Special Defense.
- Modifiers (STAB & Type)
- Select 1.5x for Same Type Attack Bonus. Type effectiveness ranges from 0.25x (double resisted) to 4x (double weakness).
The Damage Formula Explained
The mechanics of the Pokémon damage calculator are based on the core series mathematical formula. Since Generation 1, the formula has evolved slightly, but the fundamental structure remains the same:
Damage = (((((2 × Level / 5) + 2) × Power × A/D) / 50) + 2) × Modifier
- Level: The level of the attacker.
- Power: The base power of the move used.
- A/D: The ratio of the attacker's relevant Attack stat to the defender's relevant Defense stat.
- Modifier: A composite multiplier including STAB, Type Effectiveness, Critical Hits, Weather, and a random number between 0.85 and 1.00.
Calculation Example
Scenario: A Level 100 Pikachu uses Thunderbolt (90 Power) against a Level 100 Squirtle.
Step-by-step solution:
- Level = 100; Attack (Sp. Atk) = 200; Defense (Sp. Def) = 150
- Base Power = 90
- Calculate Base: (((2*100/5)+2)*90*(200/150))/50 + 2 = 100.4
- Apply STAB (1.5x) and Effectiveness (2.0x for Water): 100.4 * 1.5 * 2.0 = 301.2
- Apply Random Roll (0.85 to 1.00): Result = 256 to 301 HP Damage
Common Questions
What is STAB in Pokémon damage?
STAB stands for Same Type Attack Bonus. If a Fire-type Pokémon uses a Fire-type move, the damage is multiplied by 1.5x. Pokémon with the "Adaptability" ability increase this multiplier to 2.0x.
Why does the damage change every time I use the same move?
The games apply a random variance (often called the "roll") between 85% and 100% of the calculated damage. This ensures that battles aren't purely deterministic and adds a layer of strategy regarding "guaranteed" knockouts (OHKOs).
Do held items like Choice Band affect the calculator?
Yes, items like Choice Band or Life Orb act as additional multipliers. You should factor these into your "Attack Stat" or "Modifier" when using a manual Pokémon damage calculator.