5 battle mechanics that the Pokemon anime keeps getting wrong

As entertaining as Pokemon is, the series often plays fast and loose with established in-game mechanics. These inconsistencies might serve the narrative or provide dramatic flair, but they leave fans scratching their heads when comparing the anime to the games.

Here are five battle mechanics the Pokemon anime consistently gets wrong, along with examples that highlight these blunders.

Note: This article is subjective and reflects the writer's opinions.

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5 Pokemon battle mechanics that don't make sense in the anime

1) Physical Attackers using Special moves (and vice versa)

Ash’s Snorlax as seen in the anime (Image via TPC)

In the games, Pokemon moves are divided into physical and special categories, with a Pokemon’s stats determining their effectiveness. For instance, a physical attacker like Machamp should excel with moves like Close Combat but struggle with moves like Fire Blast due to its low Special Attack stats.

However, the anime frequently ignores these distinctions. Ash’s Snorlax has been seen using Hyper Beam, a special move. Despite being more effective as a physical attacker, Snorlax executes the move with surprising efficiency, showcasing another instance of the anime disregarding in-game stat logic.

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2) Pikachu taking down legendaries and pseudo-legendaries

Ash’s Pikachu vs Tobias’ Latios as seen in the anime (Image via TPC)

Ash’s Pikachu is undeniably a fan favorite, but its feats in battle often stretch believability. Pikachu has defeated legendary Pokemon like Regice and pseudo-legendaries like Dragonite despite not being a fully evolved Pokemon. In the games, such victories would require meticulous strategy, type advantages, and often a hefty dose of luck.

For example, Pikachu’s draw against Tobias’ Latios in the Sinnoh League was a jaw-dropping moment but left fans questioning the power scaling in the anime.

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3) Pikachu losing to weak Pokemon

Trip's Snivy that defeats Ash's Pikachu (Image via TPC)

Conversely, Pikachu has also suffered humiliating defeats against far weaker opponents. A prime example is its loss to a beginner trainer’s Snivy in Unova, despite having years of battle experience and having previously taken down far stronger foes.

While the show often uses such moments to depict Ash’s fresh start in a new region, it contradicts the idea of Pikachu being one of his most seasoned battlers.

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4) Ash winning from illogical strategies

Thunder Armor as seen in the anime (Image via TPC)

The anime frequently showcases Ash’s creativity in battles, but some strategies defy logic entirely. One infamous example is the “Thunder Armor” tactic used in his battle against Tate and Liza. In this scenario, Pikachu’s Thunder attack combined with Swellow’s body resulted in an inexplicable golden armor that nullified damage and secured victory.

While it made for a dramatic visual, it’s a concept that’s completely absent from the games. Additionally, Swellow being weak to Electric-types should've instantly been knocked out the moment to came in contact with it.

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5) Ground-types getting hit by Electric moves

Ash's Pikachu vs Brock’s Onix as seen in the anime (Image via TPC)

In the Pokemon games, Electric-type moves are completely ineffective against Ground-types due to immunity. However, the anime often forgets this rule for the sake of dramatic effect. One memorable example is Pikachu’s Thunderbolt landing on Brock’s Onix during their first gym battle.

While it’s later revealed that water from the sprinklers made Onix more conductive, it’s a stretch that goes against the games' clear-cut mechanics. This instant has been shown multiple times in the anime during various other battles where Electric-type moves affect Ground-types.

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These inconsistencies might make the anime more unpredictable and entertaining, but they’re a source of endless debate among fans. While the anime and games are different, aligning the two more closely would certainly enhance the experience for Pokemon enthusiasts who enjoy both mediums.