Simple (ability)

Effect

The Simple ability doubles the number of stages of all stat changes. Stats can be raised to a maximum of +6 stages each, or lowered to a minimum of -6 stages each.

For example, using Swords Dance would increase the Pokémon's attack by 4 stages instead of the usual 2. If Tail Whip was targeted at a Pokémon with Simple, its Defense would drop 2 stages instead of 1.

The move Simple Beam can change a Pokémon's ability to Simple.

Changes

In Generation 4, Simple doubles the effects of stat changes but does not increase the actual number of stages. Stat increases are capped at the same multiplier of ×4, as per the table below. However, the resulting effect is exactly the same as current games.

StageStat increase
1×2
2×3
3×4
4×4
5×4
6×4

Game descriptions

Diamond​/​Pearl
Platinum
HeartGold​/​SoulSilver
The Pokémon is prone to wild stat changes.
Black​/​White
Black 2​/​White 2
The Pokémon is prone to wild stat changes.
X​/​Y
O.Ruby​/​A.Sapphire
The Pokémon is prone to wild stat changes.
Sun​/​Moon
Ultra Sun​/​Ultra Moon
The stat changes the Pokémon receives are doubled.
Sword​/​Shield
B.Diamond​/​S.Pearl
The stat changes the Pokémon receives are doubled.
Scarlet​/​Violet Doubles the effects of the Pokémon’s stat changes.

Other languages

English Simple
Japanese たんじゅん (Tanjun)
German Wankelmut
French Simple
Italian Disinvoltura
Spanish Simple
Korean 단순
Chinese (Simplified) 单纯
Chinese (Traditional) 單純

Pokémon with Simple

#
Name
2nd ability
Hidden ability
Numel 0322 Numel Oblivious Own Tempo
Bidoof 0399 Bidoof Unaware Moody
Bibarel 0400 Bibarel Unaware Moody

Simple as a hidden ability

#
Name
Other abilities
Woobat 0527 Woobat Unaware
Klutz
Swoobat 0528 Swoobat Unaware
Klutz