Commander
Reference entry; the partners that use it are not part of the current Pokémon Champions roster.
Competitive value
A signature synergy retained for database completeness.
All Pokémon with this ability
6 Pokémon, sorted by usage
What this ability changes
Commander is a tier B ability. It is classified as support. Reference entry; the partners that use it are not part of the current Pokémon Champions roster. Several Pokémon can use Commander situationally. A signature synergy retained for database completeness.
How it affects positioning
Positioning matters with Commander. Think about when the ability triggers — on entry, on hit, on switch out, or continuously — and build your turns around those moments. Abilities that trigger on entry pair well with pivot moves, while continuous abilities reward careful lead selection. If the ability affects the whole field, consider how long you expect that field condition to last and whether your opponent can override it.
Team-building considerations
In team building, Commander should justify at least one team slot and ideally shape several. Ask which Pokémon benefit directly from the ability and which opponents will try to play around it. Build redundant answers to the ability's common counters so the rest of the team still functions when the ability is negated, overridden or ignored.
Matchup notes
Matchup value depends on whether the opponent's team can ignore, copy or remove the ability's effect. Bring Commander when you expect the opposing strategy to rely on the mechanics it counters, and consider a backup plan for games where that interaction does not come up. Test these matchups in the team builder and analyzer before finalizing your roster.
Related Pokémon and tools
Explore related Pokémon, team examples and guides to see Commander in action.
Frequently asked questions
+Is Commander good in VGC?
A signature synergy retained for database completeness.
+Which Pokémon use Commander?
Several Pokémon can use Commander situationally.