Catch Rate and Capture Mechanics

Catch rate determines how easy a wild Pokemon is to capture. HP, status, ball choice, and species all play a part.

How catch rate works

The game starts with a species' base catch rate, then modifies it using the target's remaining HP, the ball you throw, and any status bonus. Lower HP raises the catch formula the most. Sleep and freeze give the biggest status bonus, while paralysis, poison, and burn also improve the odds.

Ball choice matters

The exact formula changes by generation, but the useful patterns stay the same. Use Quick Ball on turn 1, Timer Ball in long battles, Dusk Ball in caves or at night, Net Ball against Water- and Bug-type targets, and Repeat Ball when you have already caught that species before. Master Ball bypasses the formula entirely.

What matters most

For most captures, the order is simple: lower HP, apply status, then choose the ball that matches the encounter. If you are hunting a specific species, the catch rate on its Pokédex page tells you whether the target is naturally easy or stubborn.

FAQ

Which status helps the most?

Sleep and freeze give the biggest catch-rate boost. Paralysis, poison, and burn still help, but by a smaller amount.

Does every ball use the same multiplier?

No. Some balls are general-purpose, while others are strongest in specific battles or locations.

Can a Master Ball fail?

Usually no. The Master Ball skips the capture formula, although a few scripted exceptions exist in specific games.