Stalwart

Stalwart is a specialized ability that allows its user to bypass moves and abilities that would normally redirect or draw in their attacks. When a Pokemon with Stalwart uses a move, it will ignore effects like Storm Drain, Lightning Rod, Follow Me, Rage Powder, and Spotlight, allowing the attack to hit its intended target regardless of redirection attempts. This makes Stalwart particularly valuable in doubles and multi-battle formats where move redirection is a common defensive strategy.

The ability functions as a straightforward counter to redirection tactics, ensuring that powerful attacks from Pokemon like Duraludon and Archaludon can consistently reach their intended targets. This is especially significant given that both known Stalwart users are Steel/Dragon types with potent offensive capabilities and access to moves like Dragon Pulse and Flash Cannon that opponents might want to redirect away from frailer team members.

In competitive play, Stalwart provides reliable damage output in formats where redirection support is prevalent. While not as universally applicable as some other abilities, it serves as an important niche counter that can disrupt common defensive strategies. The ability has remained unchanged since its introduction in Generation 8, maintaining its focused role as a redirection immunity that helps ensure these Steel/Dragon attackers can execute their game plan without interference from support Pokemon attempting to protect their teammates.