Bide is one of the most misunderstood and underrated moves in the Pokémon series. While it might not look impressive at first glance due to its delayed effect and lack of immediate damage, this Normal-type move holds potential in specific battle strategies. Many players dismiss Bide because it relies heavily on prediction and timing, but when used correctly, it can turn the tide of a match. Especially in early-game scenarios or specific rule sets like Nuzlocke or low-level tournaments, Bide offers a unique tactical option that rewards smart play. This topic explores whether Bide is a good move, how it works, its competitive applications, and the Pokémon that benefit most from it.
Understanding How Bide Works
Basic Mechanics
Bide is a two-turn move introduced in Generation I. When a Pokémon uses Bide, it enters a semi-invulnerable state for two to three turns. During this period, it stores the damage it receives, regardless of the attack type. After this waiting period ends, Bide unleashes double the total damage it took back at the last Pokémon that hit it.
Key Rules of Bide
- Bide ignores type effectiveness, meaning it can hit Ghost-types despite being a Normal-type move.
- It deals fixed damage equal to double the total HP lost while biding.
- Bide does not require accuracy and will not miss once it activates.
- If the user is not attacked during the bide period, the move fails and does no damage.
Understanding these mechanics is crucial when considering the strategic use of Bide. Timing, prediction, and knowing your opponent’s likely moves are essential.
When Bide Becomes a Good Move
Early Game Advantage
In early-game battles, particularly in single-player campaigns, Bide can be a surprisingly effective move. Many wild Pokémon and trainers use straightforward, damage-dealing moves at low levels, which makes it easier to anticipate attacks. A bulky Pokémon using Bide can absorb a few hits and retaliate with a strong strike, often securing a one-hit knockout.
Ideal Situations for Use
- Against fast, frail attackers: Bide works best when facing Pokémon that deal moderate damage quickly but can’t take a strong counterattack.
- In low-resource runs: In Nuzlocke or challenge modes where healing items and Pokémon are limited, Bide can help you win without expending valuable PP or items.
- Versus opponents with predictable patterns: Gym leaders or trainers with a known move set make Bide easier to time and predict.
Psychological Pressure in PvP
In competitive play, Bide rarely sees use due to its slow nature and reliance on the opponent attacking. However, in specific formats or under certain rule sets, it can be used to create psychological pressure. Opponents may hesitate to attack, giving you a free turn to set up, switch, or gain momentum. This mind game aspect of Bide can sometimes be more valuable than the damage itself.
Pokémon That Benefit from Bide
Bulky or Defensive Pokémon
Pokémon with high HP and decent defenses make ideal Bide users because they can survive multiple hits while storing damage. These Pokémon often lack offensive presence, so Bide gives them a way to punish attackers directly.
- Wobbuffet: Known for counter-based strategies, Wobbuffet pairs well with moves like Bide, though it usually prefers Counter or Mirror Coat.
- Shuckle: Its extreme bulk and lack of offensive options make Bide one of its few direct attack methods.
- Cascoon and Silcoon: These cocoon Pokémon can use Bide during their early evolution stages to surprise unprepared opponents.
Early-Game Pokémon with Limited Move Pools
In the first few hours of gameplay, many Pokémon don’t have access to powerful STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) moves or type coverage. Bide can fill the gap and allow these Pokémon to hold their own until they learn better moves.
- Rattata: Fast but frail, Bide gives it a way to hit back hard if it can survive a round or two.
- Geodude: Its natural defenses help it tank hits while biding, especially early in the game.
- Seedot: This Grass-type starts with only Bide in some games, relying on it to level up until it learns Absorb.
Downsides of Using Bide
Risk of Misuse
The biggest downside of Bide is its reliance on the opponent’s behavior. If your opponent uses status moves or switches Pokémon, your stored energy becomes useless. In PvP, a skilled player can easily shut down Bide by avoiding direct damage or using Protect and Substitute.
Vulnerability to Setup
During the biding phase, your Pokémon is locked into the move. If your opponent recognizes this, they may take the opportunity to set up with moves like Swords Dance, Calm Mind, or Stealth Rock without consequence. This can snowball into a disadvantage if you’re not careful.
Incompatibility with Modern Speed
As the Pokémon series has introduced faster gameplay and stronger offensive options, slower strategies like Bide have become more niche. In high-speed meta formats, two turns is often too long to wait unless you have a guaranteed strategy in place.
Optimizing Bide for Tactical Use
Combine with Defensive Buffs
If you want to make Bide more reliable, consider pairing it with defense-boosting moves or items:
- Use Harden or Iron Defense: Increases the chance your Pokémon survives long enough to return damage.
- Equip Berry Items: Oran Berry or Sitrus Berry can help you recover HP while biding.
- Hold Focus Sash: Guarantees survival if hit with a one-shot attack, allowing Bide to activate the next turn.
Timing and Prediction
Bide rewards knowledge of your opponent’s tendencies. Use it when you expect physical damage or in situations where your opponent is unlikely to use status moves. Against AI opponents or predictable trainers, this is easier. In PvP, it becomes a high-risk, high-reward gamble.
Final Verdict: Is Bide a Good Move?
Bide is not a top-tier competitive move, and it rarely sees use in professional tournaments or high-level online battles. However, it can be a good move in specific contexts, especially for early-game progression, surprise tactics in casual play, and low-level formats. Its utility shines most when the player understands the flow of battle, can predict opponents, and uses Bide as part of a greater strategy rather than relying on it as a main source of damage.
In the right hands and right circumstances, Bide becomes more than just a gimmick. It becomes a clever, calculated counter to brute force attacks and a reminder that in Pokémon battles, strategy often trumps raw power.