A switch-in is the Pokémon you bring into battle after changing from another team member. Good switching uses type resistances, immunities, defensive stats, and prediction to avoid unnecessary damage and gain a favorable matchup. Switching is especially important against opponents that threaten your current Pokémon but are weak to a teammate. However, switching can be punished by entry hazards, strong coverage moves, trapping effects, or double switches. Do not switch only based on type chart; consider the opponent’s likely move, your incoming Pokémon’s HP, and whether it can threaten the opponent afterward. Team synergy depends heavily on safe switch-ins.
