Pressure

Pressure forces opposing Pokemon to expend an additional PP point whenever they target the Pokemon with this ability. This deceptively simple mechanic creates a subtle but meaningful resource drain that can shift the momentum of longer battles. The ability affects any move that directly targets the Pressure Pokemon, including attacks that miss or fail to connect, making it a consistent source of PP depletion regardless of accuracy or success rates.

The ability's targeting rules follow specific parameters that competitive players should understand. While it affects most offensive moves and single-target support moves aimed at the Pressure Pokemon, it notably does not drain PP from ally moves that benefit the entire field or the ally's side of the battlefield. However, it will still trigger against moves like Earthquake that hit multiple targets, including the Pressure Pokemon. When multiple Pokemon with Pressure are targeted simultaneously, the PP cost stacks accordingly, potentially draining significant resources from multi-target attacks.

Pressure finds its greatest competitive value on legendary Pokemon known for their defensive capabilities and longevity. Pokemon like Lugia, Ho-Oh, and Dialga leverage this ability particularly well due to their natural bulk and ability to survive extended encounters. While not immediately game-changing like more aggressive abilities, Pressure can be decisive in stall matchups or when facing Pokemon with limited PP on crucial moves, gradually forcing opponents into uncomfortable positions as their most important attacks become unusable.