Summary
Sturdy is a Pokémon ability introduced in Generation III.
Effect:
- Prevents the Pokémon from being knocked out in one hit, leaving it with 1 HP if its HP was full before the attack
- Grants immunity to one-hit KO moves: Fissure, Guillotine, Horn Drill, and Sheer Cold
- If the Pokémon is holding a Focus Sash, Sturdy takes precedence, and the item is not consumed
In Battle:
- Acts as a built-in Focus Sash, ensuring that the Pokémon can survive at least one attack when at full HP
- Allows a Pokémon to set up moves or retaliate after surviving a hit
- Provides an opportunity to use status-inducing or strategic moves like Stealth Rock, Spikes, or Toxic
- Particularly useful for setting up hazards or using moves like Endeavor
- Can be nullified by multi-hit moves or indirect damage like Sandstorm, Hail, or entry hazards if the Pokémon isn't at full HP
Pokémon with this Ability:
- Geodude (standard ability)
- Onix (standard ability)
- Aggron (standard ability)
- Skarmory (standard ability)
- Golem (standard ability)
- Several other Rock, Ground, and Steel-type Pokémon
Competitive Use:
- Frequently employed on Pokémon that are meant to set up entry hazards or disrupt the opponent’s strategy
- Provides security against unexpected powerful attacks, enabling strategic play
- Often used in combination with moves that benefit from survival, like Explosion or Counter
- Can be a surprise factor in battles, especially when opponents expect an easy knockout
- Works effectively with Pokémon that have access to recovery moves or Leftovers to regain full HP
Interesting Facts:
- Originally only provided immunity to one-hit KO moves until Generation V, when the effect was expanded to prevent being knocked out in one hit
- Commonly found on Pokémon with high Defense stats, enhancing their role as defensive pivots
- The ability's name reflects its function, providing resilience akin to being "sturdy"
- Notably featured in the Pokémon anime, showcasing the dramatic survival against powerful attacks