Toxic Chain

Toxic Chain is a signature ability introduced in Generation 9 that gives Pokemon a chance to badly poison their target whenever they successfully land an attack. Unlike regular poison status, bad poison progressively worsens each turn, dealing damage equal to the number of turns the Pokemon has been poisoned multiplied by 1/16 of their maximum HP. This makes Toxic Chain particularly dangerous in prolonged battles, as the escalating damage can quickly overwhelm opponents who cannot cure the status condition.

The ability triggers on any move that makes contact with the opponent, regardless of whether the move deals damage or not. This includes physical attacks, special attacks, and even status moves that target the enemy, making it remarkably versatile for applying pressure. The poisoning chance appears to be consistent across all moves, giving Pokemon with this ability multiple opportunities per battle to inflict the devastating status condition.

Competitively, Toxic Chain defines the playstyle of the Loyal Three Pokemon that possess it. Okidogi can leverage its bulk to fish for poison procs while dealing respectable damage, Munkidori can threaten poison while providing psychic utility, and Fezandipiti combines fairy typing with consistent poison pressure. The ability transforms these Pokemon into formidable stallbreakers and late-game threats, as opponents must constantly weigh the risk of taking badly poison damage against engaging in battle. Smart players often prioritize Pokemon with natural poison immunity or reliable status healing when facing Toxic Chain users.