Dynamax and Gigantamax
Dynamax is a battle transformation that temporarily makes a Pokemon enormous and changes the way its moves work. Gigantamax is a special version of Dynamax available only to specific species, with unique form changes and unique G-Max moves.
How Dynamax works
When a Pokemon Dynamaxes, it becomes much larger for three turns. Its HP increases for the duration of the effect, and its regular moves turn into Max Moves with fixed effects. Status moves become Max Guard instead of normal attacks, so the mechanic changes both offense and defense. Because the transformation is temporary, it is a battle mode rather than a permanent form change.
What Max Moves do
Every damaging move turns into a Max Move, and each type has its own Max Move effect. That means Dynamax is not just about size or HP. It changes tempo, field control, and what secondary effects your attacks create. Max Flare sets sun, Max Geyser sets rain, Max Rockfall sets sandstorm, Max Hailstorm sets hail, Max Airstream raises Speed, and Max Knuckle raises Attack. The original move's base power is replaced by the Max Move's fixed power bracket, so timing matters as much as move choice.
How Gigantamax is different
Gigantamax is a special subset of Dynamax. Only certain species can Gigantamax, and when they do, they get a unique appearance and a unique G-Max move instead of the standard Max Move for that type. You can browse the Gmax Pokedex to see which species have Gigantamax forms.
What does not change
Dynamax does not permanently change a Pokemon's species, stats, or original form. It is a timed battle effect, so once the transformation ends the Pokemon returns to normal.
Battle impact
Dynamax can swing a game by giving a Pokemon more HP, Max Move effects, and a three-turn window to pressure the field. Gigantamax adds a species-specific battle mode with a signature G-Max move. Because the effect is temporary, the best use is often to force a trade, secure a KO, or survive long enough to win the endgame.
Related forms
See Mega Evolution for the other major battle transformation. Mega Evolution is also temporary, but it changes stats and form in a different way.
FAQ
Can every Pokemon Dynamax?
No. Dynamax is a mechanic that only exists in games or formats that allow it.
Can every Gigantamax Pokemon Dynamax?
Yes, if the game or format allows Dynamax. Gigantamax is a special version of Dynamax for a limited set of species.
Does Gigantamax last forever?
No. Like Dynamax, Gigantamax is temporary and ends after the effect runs out.