📗 Pokédex Entry: Battle Bond
Name: Battle Bond
Introduced In:Pokémon Sun & Moon (Gen VII)
Region: Alola
Category: Ability-Based Transformation – Bond-Driven Power
🔷 What is it?
Battle Bond is a rare transformation mechanic that activates when a Pokémon and its Trainer share an exceptionally strong emotional and tactical connection. When triggered, the Pokémon changes form or gains strength mid-battle, symbolizing their shared will to win together.
The best-known example is Ash-Greninja, a special Greninja that transforms into a form resembling its Trainer, Ash Ketchum, from the anime—showcasing a perfect synchronicity between Trainer and Pokémon.
🌟 Visual & UI
No battle button or special item.
Activated automatically when certain conditions are met (usually after defeating an opponent).
The Pokémon glows with energy and takes on a more powerful or personalized form.
⚙️ Activation & Rules - Feature Battle Bond
Where - Alola (Sun/Moon), limited to special Pokémon
Trigger - Defeating an opposing Pokémon (via KO)
Activation - Passive – happens instantly after KO
Duration - Until battle ends or Pokémon is switched out
Item Needed - None – tied to Pokémon's ability
One-Time Use - Yes – per battle
🔥 Battle Effects - Effect Type Details
Form Change - Pokémon takes on a new appearance representing shared strength/trust
Stat Boosts - Significant boosts in key stats (e.g., Speed, Attack, Sp. Atk)
Move Upgrade - In Ash-Greninja's case, Water Shuriken becomes a stronger multi-hit move
Ability-Based - Tied to a special Battle Bond ability; not usable with other abilities
🧬 Ash-Greninja: The Best-Known Example Pokémon Transformed Form Key Differences Greninja
Ash-Greninja + Attack, + Speed, + Sp. Atk; resembles Ash's clothing and eyes Signature Move Water Shuriken Always hits 3×, increased power, priority
This form was distributed via event-only Greninja in Sun & Moon, with the ability Battle Bond instead of Torrent.
🤝 Trainer-Pokémon Bond: The Deeper Mechanic
Battle Bond is more than just a stat buff—it symbolizes the idea that emotional closeness, mutual trust, and experience together can bring out a Pokémon's true potential.
This concept, while only mechanically realized through Ash-Greninja, is deeply rooted in Pokémon lore and gameplay:
💗 Non-Mechanical Examples of Bond-Based Power:
Pikachu (Anime): Resists evolution and gains power through connection with Ash.
Sylveon Evolution: Requires high affection in addition to leveling.
Return/Frustration Moves: Damage output is directly tied to happiness or resentment.
Friend Ball/Cheri Berry Mechanics: Speed up friendship growth or reward loyalty.
Legends: Arceus / Pokémon-Amie: Pokémon may endure hits, land crits, or heal from status "because they love you."
These moments reinforce that bond strength is real and impactful in both story and battle.
🎯 Strategy & Notes
Battle Bond (Ash-Greninja) is strong in Singles due to its speed boost and powerful Water Shuriken.
Since it activates on KO, it's a momentum-based mechanic, rewarding aggressive play.
No item slot is required, so Greninja can carry a Focus Sash, Life Orb, or Choice item.
Cannot breed or pass down – this ability is exclusive to event Greninja.
⚔️ Competitive History - Format Status
Gen VII (SM) - Very popular; Ash-Greninja was legal in Battle Spot
Gen VIII (Sw/Sh) - Not available without Poké Transporter
Gen IX (S/V) - Still not returning as of current updates Smogon Banned from OU due to power and limited counterplay
🧩 Trivia
Ash-Greninja's transformation mirrors Mega Evolution in power, without needing a stone.
Its design was directly inspired by Ash's appearance (red face markings, ninja scarf forming a shuriken).
The Battle Bond transformation also represents synchronization of heart and mind—a concept central to Pokémon's themes.