Encore
NormalForces the target to repeat its last move for three turns.
Technical data
- Type
- Normal
- Category
- status
- Power
- —
- Accuracy
- 100
- PP
- 5
- Priority
- 0
- Target
- adjacent
- Contact
- No
- Spread
- No
- Protect blocks
- Yes
- Wide Guard blocks
- No
Competitive value
Locks foes into setup or Protect, creating free turns for the user's team.
What this move does
Encore is a Normal-type status move. It targets a single adjacent target and has 5 PP. Forces the target to repeat its last move for three turns.
Locks foes into setup or Protect, creating free turns for the user's team.
When to consider it
Consider Encore when your team needs the utility it provides rather than direct damage. Status moves define speed control, redirection, protection and disruption in VGC. Its value depends on whether your team can exploit the turns it creates. Check your team composition for Pokémon that benefit from the positioning or tempo it generates.
How to evaluate it in team building
In team building, Encore competes with other support and disruption options for a limited number of moveslots. Ask whether your team has enough offense to justify a utility move, and whether you have the speed or bulk to use it safely. Many successful teams run one or two status moves that enable the rest of the roster, so treat it as part of your overall gameplan rather than an afterthought.
Common mistakes
Common mistakes with Encore include: Using it without a clear plan for the turns it creates. Forgetting that Protect and Detect can block it, wasting a key turn. Not considering how redirectors like Follow Me and Rage Powder change targeting.
VGC interactions
Protect and Detect block this move. These interactions are situational, so test them in the team builder and matchup analyzer before committing to the moveslot.
Related tools and guides
Use the tools below to test Encore in a full team context and compare it with alternative options.
VGC interactions
- Protect / Detect: blocks this move.
- Wide Guard: does not block this move.
- Follow Me / Rage Powder: spread moves are not redirected.
- Quick Guard: no effect (non-priority).
Frequently asked questions
+Is Encore good in VGC?
Locks foes into setup or Protect, creating free turns for the user's team.
+Is Encore affected by Protect?
Yes, Encore is blocked by Protect and Detect.