What Mirror Coat Does
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What Mirror Coat Does

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Mirror coat lets a pokémon bounce back a special move for double the damage it just took. If a player uses mirror coat after getting hit by a charged move like Thunderbolt or Ice Beam, the attacker feels twice the pain. This move has a lower priority, so it usually goes last. Mirror coat is a Psychic-type move, and only a few pokemon can learn it, like Voltorb, Glaceon, Tentacool, and even Miraidon.

Key Takeaways

  • Mirror Coat sends special attack damage back to the attacker. It does double the damage you took. This move only works on special attacks. It does not work on physical or status moves. Timing matters a lot. Mirror Coat is slow and usually goes last in battle. Trainers should not use Mirror Coat on Dark-type Pokémon. Dark-type Pokémon do not get hurt by it. Some Pokémon learn Mirror Coat when they level up. Others get it from breeding or special events. To use Mirror Coat well, you must guess the opponent’s moves. You need to know the right time to use it. Pokémon with high special defense work well with Mirror Coat. This helps you use Mirror Coat better. In Pokémon Go, Mirror Coat works in a different way. It does not send damage back like in the main games.

Mirror Coat Overview

Mirror Coat Overview

Image Source: unsplash

Move Effect

Mirror coat is a Psychic-type move that works differently. It does not hit the other pokemon right away. Instead, it lets a pokemon send back special moves to the attacker. If a pokemon gets hit by a special attack, like Thunderbolt or Surf, mirror coat returns double the damage. This only happens if the pokemon was hit by a special move that turn.

Mirror coat will not work on physical attacks or status moves. It only sends back special attacks.

Here is what the official game guides say:

Source Description
Bulbapedia A move that hits back after a special attack, doing double the damage taken.
Grindosaur A move that hits back after a special attack, doing double the damage taken.

Mirror coat is different from other Psychic-type moves. Most Psychic moves hurt the other pokemon or cause status problems. Mirror coat is special because it reflects special attack damage. The table below shows how they are not the same:

Feature Mirror Coat Other Psychic-type Moves
Damage Reflection Yes (reflects special attack damage) No (deals direct damage)
Effectiveness against Dark Does not work (Dark types are immune) Works (can hit all types except Ghost)
Interaction with Ghost types Works Changes (depends on the move)

When It Works

Mirror coat only works in some cases. The pokemon must get hit by a special attack that turn. If the other pokemon uses a physical or status move, mirror coat fails. Timing is important. Mirror coat is slower, so it usually goes after the attacker. The pokemon must live through the hit to use mirror coat.

Players use mirror coat to surprise those who use special attacks. For example, if a pokemon thinks it will get hit by Psychic or Shadow Ball, it can use mirror coat to fight back. But if the attacker guesses this and uses a physical move, mirror coat will not work.

Counter vs. Mirror Coat

Some players mix up mirror coat and Counter. Both moves reflect damage, but they are not the same. Counter works only on physical attacks. Mirror coat works only on special attacks. The table below shows the difference:

Move Type Activation Condition
Physical Counter (against physical attacks)
Special Mirror Coat (against special attacks)

Knowing when to use each move can help win battles. If a pokemon faces a special attacker, mirror coat can do a lot of damage back. If the danger is from a physical attacker, Counter is the better move.

Mirror Coat Mechanics

Damage Calculation

Mirror coat works by sending back double the damage a pokemon just took from a special attack. If a pokémon gets hit by a move like Flamethrower or Psychic, mirror coat will return twice the HP lost to the attacker. This makes it a powerful tool against special attackers.

A retaliatory attack that counters any special move, inflicting double the damage taken.

For example, if a pokemon loses 40 HP from a special move, mirror coat will deal 80 HP damage back to the opponent. The move only works if the pokemon survives the hit. If the pokemon faints, mirror coat will not activate.

Priority and Accuracy

Mirror coat has a very low priority in battle. This means it almost always goes after other moves, even if the pokemon using it is faster. Here is a table that shows how mirror coat compares to other moves in terms of priority:

Move Priority
Mirror Coat -5
Counter -5
Roar -6
Whirlwind -6
Vital Throw -5

Bar chart comparing priority brackets of Mirror Coat and other moves

Mirror coat never misses unless the target is out of range or protected by a move like Protect. The move will fail if the opponent did not use a special attack that turn. Players need to predict when a special move is coming to use mirror coat effectively.

Special Limitations

Mirror coat does not work on every attack. It only reflects special moves. If the opponent uses a physical move, a status move, or a move that does not deal damage, mirror coat fails. Dark-type pokemon are immune to mirror coat because it is a Psychic-type move. This means trainers should avoid using mirror coat against Dark types.

Some other things to remember:

  • Mirror coat will not reflect damage from entry hazards like Stealth Rock.

  • The move fails if the pokemon faints before it can use mirror coat.

  • Mirror coat cannot hit a pokemon that is in the middle of using Dig, Fly, or similar moves.

Players should watch for these limits when planning to use mirror coat in battle. Knowing when it works and when it fails helps trainers get the most out of this unique move.

Learn Mirror Coat

By Level Up

Some pokemon can learn mirror coat just by leveling up. Players do not need to use any special items or breeding tricks for these pokemon. They simply gain the move as they grow stronger. Here are some pokemon that learn mirror coat by leveling up in the latest games:

  • Felcatty (Fairy/Ice) at level 37

  • Wobbuffet (Psychic) at level 1

  • Vanillish (Ice) at level 47

  • Voltorb (Electric) at level 48

  • Suicune (Water) at level 43

  • Rayqyomi Egg (Steel) at level 1

  • Vanilluxe (Ice) at level 50

Each of these pokemon gets mirror coat as part of their natural move set. Players who want to use this move in battle can train these pokemon and watch for the right level.

Tip: Wobbuffet learns mirror coat right from the start. This makes it a popular choice for players who want to use this move early in the game.

By Egg Move

Some pokemon cannot learn mirror coat by leveling up, but they can get it as an egg move. This means players need to breed two compatible pokemon, where one parent already knows mirror coat. The baby pokemon will hatch with the move. Many water types and psychic types can get mirror coat this way. For example, players often breed Corsola or Luvdisc with other water pokemon to pass down the move.

  • Breed a male pokemon that knows mirror coat with a female of the same egg group.

  • The resulting egg may hatch with mirror coat as one of its moves.

This method takes patience, but it lets players use mirror coat on pokemon that do not learn it by leveling up.

By TM/TR or Tutor

In some games, players can teach mirror coat to certain pokemon using a Move Tutor or a Technical Machine ™ or Technical Record (TR). Not every pokemon can learn mirror coat this way, but it gives more options for building a team. Move Tutors usually appear in special locations, like the Battle Tower or certain towns. Players pay with Battle Points or special items to have their pokemon learn mirror coat.

  • Check the Move Tutor list in each game to see which pokemon are eligible.

  • Some legendary pokemon and rare species can only get mirror coat from a tutor.

Players who want to add mirror coat to their strategy should check which pokemon can learn mirror coat by these methods. This helps them plan their team and surprise opponents in battle.

By Event

Some trainers want their pokemon to have rare moves. Sometimes, you can only get a special move from an event. Game makers hold events and give out unique pokemon. These pokemon may know moves you cannot get in normal play. If you join these events, you can get pokemon with mirror coat.

Here are some event pokemon that can learn mirror coat:

Event Pokémon Game/Region Year Details
Pikachu (with Mirror Coat) Pokémon Center Tokyo 2005 Given out during a special anniversary
Milotic Pokémon Colosseum Bonus Disc 2003 (Japan) Came with mirror coat as a bonus move
Wobbuffet Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness 2005 Available with mirror coat in Orre region
Corsola Pokémon Center Event 2010 Distributed with mirror coat

Note: Event pokemon often have a special ribbon or unique moves. These things make them different from regular pokemon.

Players should look at official Pokémon sites or forums for event news. Sometimes, events only happen in certain places or for a short time. If you miss the event, you may not get another chance for that move.

Events can happen in many ways. Some use wireless downloads at stores. Others use codes from tournaments or online. Players must follow the event steps to get their pokemon.

Getting a pokemon with mirror coat from an event makes your team special. It also lets trainers surprise friends in battles. If you want mirror coat on a rare pokemon, watch for these events.

Tip: Always check if the event pokemon is allowed in tournaments. Some competitions have rules about which event moves you can use.

Pokémon with Mirror Coat

Pokémon with Mirror Coat

Image Source: pexels

Notable Users

Some Pokémon stand out when it comes to using the mirror coat move. Trainers often look for Pokémon with high HP or strong special defense. These traits help them survive big hits and send back even more damage. Here are a few Pokémon that shine with this move:

  • Deoxys (Defense Forme): This Pokémon has amazing defenses. It can take a special attack and hit back hard. Many competitive players use Deoxys for this reason.

  • Wobbuffet: Known for its huge HP, Wobbuffet can soak up special moves and return double the pain. It learns mirror coat right from the start, making it a classic choice.

  • Tentacruel: With high special defense and good speed, Tentacruel can surprise attackers who expect an easy knockout.

  • Mantine: This Pokémon has one of the highest special defense stats. Mantine can take special hits and use mirror coat to punish opponents.

  • Swampert: Swampert’s high HP and balanced defenses let it survive many attacks. It can learn mirror coat and catch special attackers off guard.

Here is a quick look at some Pokémon with mirror coat move and their stats:

No. Name HP Attack Defense Sp. Atk Sp. Def Speed
#073 Tentacruel 80 70 65 80 120 100
#226 Mantine 85 40 70 80 140 70
#260 Swampert 100 110 90 85 90 60

Trainers often pick Pokémon with high special defense or HP to get the most out of mirror coat. These Pokémon can take a hit and turn the tables in battle.

Best Strategies

Using mirror coat well takes planning and a bit of prediction. Trainers who master this move can turn a losing fight into a win. Here are some top strategies for getting the most out of mirror coat:

  1. Wait for the Right Moment: Sometimes, patience pays off. Trainers often wait until their Pokémon is at a key level or in the perfect spot to use mirror coat. Timing can make all the difference.

  2. Pair with Healing Support: Pokémon that can heal themselves or have a teammate with healing moves last longer. This gives them more chances to use mirror coat and deal big damage.

  3. Choose Pokémon with High Special Defense: Pokémon like Mantine or Tentacruel can take special hits better. They survive longer and can use mirror coat more than once.

  4. Switch Out After a Big Hit: If a Pokémon takes a huge special attack and uses mirror coat, sometimes it helps to switch out next turn. This keeps it safe for later.

  5. Avoid Dark Types: Mirror coat does not work on Dark-type Pokémon. Trainers should watch for these matchups and plan their moves.

Tip: Trainers who predict their opponent’s special moves can surprise them with a powerful mirror coat. Practice and experience help trainers know when to use this move for the best results.

Some trainers also use mirror coat in double battles. They protect the user with a partner or use moves like Follow Me to draw attacks. This way, the Pokémon with mirror coat can focus on reflecting damage without worrying about getting knocked out too soon.

Mirror Coat in Pokémon Go

Differences from Main Series

Players who try out battles in pokémon go might notice that some moves work differently than in the main games. Mirror coat is one of those moves that changes a lot between the two versions. In the main series, trainers use it as a tricky counter move. It always goes last and sends back double the damage from special attacks. In pokémon go, the move acts more like a regular charged attack.

Let’s look at how the move changes between the two games:

Aspect Pokémon Go Main Series Games
Type Psychic-type charged attack Psychic-type move
Function Reflects damage received, but as a charged attack Reflects double damage from special attacks, always goes second
Mechanics Used in battles as a charged move Functions as a move that always goes second

In pokémon go, players tap to build up energy. When they have enough, they can use mirror coat as a charged attack. The move does not wait for the opponent to hit first. It does not reflect double damage or depend on the type of attack the opponent uses. Instead, it just deals a set amount of damage, like other charged moves.

This change means trainers cannot use the same strategies as in the main games. In the main series, players often predict a special attack and use mirror coat to turn the tables. In pokémon go, the move works more like a straightforward attack. It does not punish special attackers or reward careful timing.

Note: In pokémon go, the move’s power and energy cost can change with updates. Trainers should check the latest stats before using it in battles.

Some players feel surprised when they first try the move in pokémon go. They expect it to reflect damage, but it just acts like any other charged move. This difference can affect how trainers build their teams and plan their battles.

Here are a few things to remember:

  • The move does not reflect damage in pokémon go.

  • It works as a charged attack, not a counter.

  • Trainers should not expect the same results as in the main series.

Understanding these differences helps players avoid mistakes and get the most out of their battles. When trainers know how moves change between games, they can make better choices and win more often.

Common Mistakes

Misuse in Battle

Many trainers want to use tricky moves, but they sometimes make mistakes that cost them the match. When players use this move, they often guess wrong about what the opponent will do. Here are some common errors trainers make:

  • They misjudge the type of the opposing pokemon. If the opponent uses a physical move instead of a special one, the move fails.

  • Trainers sometimes use this move against teams that have both physical and special attackers. If the opponent switches to a physical attacker, the move becomes useless.

  • Some players forget to bring teammates who can cover weaknesses. Relying on one strategy makes it easy for the opponent to predict and counter.

Tip: Trainers should always check the opponent’s team and think about what moves might come next. Having a backup plan helps avoid these mistakes.

A good battle plan means knowing when to use a move and when to hold back. Trainers who rush in without thinking often end up wasting their best moves.

Type Interactions

Type matchups play a big role in every battle. Some types can block certain moves completely. This move is no different. Trainers need to remember these key points:

  • Dark-type pokemon are immune to this move. If a trainer uses it against a Dark type, nothing happens.

  • The move does not care about weaknesses or resistances. It only checks if the target is immune.

  • Some pokemon, like Sableye and Spiritomb, are immune to both this move and Counter. These pokemon can stop both strategies at once.

Here is a quick table to help trainers remember which types can block the move:

Pokémon Type Immune to Move?
Dark Yes
Ghost No
Psychic No

Note: Trainers should always check the opponent’s type before using this move. Picking the wrong target can waste a turn and give the opponent an advantage.

Knowing how types interact with each move helps trainers make better choices. Smart players look at the opponent’s team and plan ahead. They avoid using moves that will not work and focus on strategies that give them the best chance to win.

Quick Reference

Summary Table

Sometimes, players just want the facts at a glance. This quick reference section gives all the important details in one spot. If someone needs to check stats or see which pokemon can use this move, they can find it here.

Need to make a fast decision in battle? Use this table to check the move’s stats and see which pokemon can learn it.

Move Stats

Here is a table with the main stats for this move:

Stat Value
Type Psychic
Category Special
Power
Accuracy 100
PP 20
  • Type: Psychic means it will not work on Dark types.

  • Category: Special, so it only reflects special attacks.

  • Power: No set power. The move deals double the damage taken from a special attack.

  • Accuracy: 100, so it almost never misses.

  • PP: 20, which lets a trainer use it many times in a match.

Move Effect

This move acts as a counter to any special attack. When a pokemon gets hit by a special move, it can use this move to send back double the damage to the attacker.

Learnable Pokémon

Some pokemon can learn this move by leveling up. Others need breeding or special events. Here is a quick list of a few pokemon and how they learn it:

Name Type 1 Type 2 How to Learn
Wobbuffet Psychic Lv.1
Voltorb Electric Lv.38
Vanillish Ice Lv.48
Mantine Water Flying Lv.24
  • Wobbuffet learns it right away, so trainers can use it early.

  • Voltorb and Vanillish pick it up as they level up.

  • Mantine gets it at level 24, which is helpful for mid-game battles.

Trainers should always check their team to see if anyone can learn this move. Sometimes, a surprise counter can turn the tide of a tough fight.

Quick Tips

  • Use this move only after taking a special attack.

  • Avoid using it against Dark-type pokemon.

  • Remember, timing matters. Predict the opponent’s move for the best results.

This summary gives trainers a handy guide for fast reference. Whether building a team or planning a strategy, these details help make smart choices.

Mirror coat gives trainers a smart way to turn special attacks against their opponents. Players who understand its timing and limits can win tough battles. Many choose pokémon with high defense, just like builders pick strong materials for lasting results. Trainers should check their pokemon’s move list and see if mirror coat fits their team. A well-timed move can change the game.

Smart choices and good timing make all the difference in battle.

FAQ

What types of moves does Mirror Coat reflect?

Mirror Coat only reflects special moves. It does not work on physical or status moves. If a Pokémon gets hit by a special attack, Mirror Coat sends back double the damage.

Can Mirror Coat hit Dark-type Pokémon?

No, Mirror Coat cannot hit Dark-type Pokémon. Dark types are immune to all Psychic-type moves, including Mirror Coat. Trainers should avoid using it against them.

Does Mirror Coat always go last in a turn?

Mirror Coat has very low priority. It usually goes after most other moves, even if the user is faster. This helps it reflect attacks that happen earlier in the turn.

Can Mirror Coat be used in double battles?

Yes, trainers can use Mirror Coat in double battles. It will target the last Pokémon that hit the user with a special move. If no special move hits, Mirror Coat fails.

What happens if the user faints before using Mirror Coat?

If the Pokémon faints from the special attack, it cannot use Mirror Coat. The move only works if the user survives the hit and gets a chance to respond.

Does Mirror Coat work on moves like Stealth Rock or Toxic?

No, Mirror Coat does not reflect indirect damage or status effects. It only works on direct special attacks that deal damage in the same turn.

Can any Pokémon learn Mirror Coat?

Not every Pokémon can learn Mirror Coat. Some get it by leveling up, others by breeding, move tutor, or special events. Trainers should check their Pokémon’s move list to see if it’s available.


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