Forced Switch

Whirldwind is a move used in Pokemon to summon a whirlwind that forces the enemy trainer to swap to another Pokemon without their consent.

Background

Forced Switch (also called Forced Substitution) is the ability to compel an opponent to swap their active character, partner, or unit. This can disrupt their strategy, force weaker units into combat, or manipulate positioning in team-based or tag fights.

Also Called

• Forced Substitution
• Forced Swap

Possible Applications

• Force opponents to send out less-prepared or weaker characters.
• Disrupt opponents’ setups, combos, or turn-based strategies.
• Control battlefield positioning in tag or team-based fights.

Practical Uses

• In competitive games like Pokémon, moves like Roar or Whirlwind force opponents to switch Pokémon, removing hazards or breaking strategies.
• In tag fighting games, forcing an opponent’s partner into the match can open them to punishes or unfavorable matchups.
• Disrupting enemy synergy by forcing characters or units to enter the fight prematurely.

Variations

• Single Target Forced Switch: Forces one opponent to switch.
• Multi-Target Forced Switch: Can force multiple opponents to switch simultaneously.
• Conditional Forced Switch: Switch occurs only if certain conditions are met (e.g., target’s HP is low, specific status is active).

Possible Limitations

• Only works on susceptible targets; some may resist via abilities, items, or inherent immunities.
• Requires conditions like proximity, line of sight, or energy to activate.
• Does not directly impair an opponent’s actions; only forces repositioning.

Users

• Trainers in games like Pokémon using moves like Roar, Whirlwind, Dragon Tail.
• Tag fighters with moves specifically designed to force partner entry.
• Fictional characters with abilities that manipulate the presence or position of opponents.