Mastering the digital battlefield on Pokémon Showdown requires more than just knowing type matchups and building balanced teams. You need to navigate the platform's text interface efficiently, lookup stats instantly, and manage your matches using built-in chat commands. Whether you're trying to check a move's priority mid-match or block unwanted direct messages, knowing the right syntax saves precious seconds.
This guide breaks down every essential command you need for the simulator, categorized by chat utility, database lookups, and battle control. We'll skip the fluff and show you exactly how these inputs work in practice so you can climb the ladder faster.
Core Chat and Profile Management Commands
When you first log onto the client, your identity and communication settings matter. You don't want random challenges or spam distracting you during a high-stakes tournament match.
/nick [new username]: Changes your display name. If the name is already registered to someone else, the client prompts you to enter a password./avatar [name or number]: Updates your trainer sprite to a different character model./awayor/idle: Blocks incoming battle challenges and direct messages temporarily while you step away from the keyboard./back: Reverses the away status and unlocks challenges and private messages./ignore [username]: Mutes all text output and private messages from a specific disruptive user./whois [username]: Pulls up information on a user, including their current rooms and user group rank.
To send a private message without opening a separate tab, use /msg [username], [message] or the shorthand /w [username], [message]. If you want to reply instantly to the last person who messaged you, type /r [message] or /reply [message].
Database and Lookup Commands
Checking moveset legality, base stats, or type effectiveness during team building or live drafting is crucial. Instead of switching tabs to external wikis, you can query the built-in database directly from any chat box.
/data [pokemon/item/move/ability]or/dt [pokemon/item/move/ability]: Displays detailed information. Using/dtprovides extra depth, such as a move's priority bracket, contact status, and generation introduced./calc: Generates a quick link to the official damage calculator./weak [pokemon or type]or/weakness: Instantly lists all type weaknesses and defensive vulnerabilities for a specified target./learn [pokemon], [move1], [move2]: Verifies whether a specific Pokémon can legally learn a combination of moves in standard formats./dexsearch [criteria]: Filters Pokémon based on specific parameters like type, tier, or abilities (for example,/dexsearch electric, speed > 100).
Public Broadcasting with Exclamation Points
By default, typing commands like /dt earthquake displays the output only to you. If you are in a team building room or a help chat and want to share the information publicly, prepend an exclamation point instead of a slash:
!dt earthquakebroadcasts the move data to everyone in the room chat.
Live Match Control Commands
Once you enter an active battle room, your permissions shift temporarily to give you control over the match environment. These commands help manage pacing and record your games.
/timer on: Activates the battle timer if your opponent is stalling or taking too long on their turns. You can turn it off using/timer off./savereplay: Generates a permanent link to save a text and visual log of the match so you can analyze your plays or share them online./forfeit: Concedes the current match immediately when you realize a game is unwinnable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced players occasionally run into syntax errors or permission blocks. Keep these pitfalls in mind:
- Forgetting commas in multi-argument commands: When using
/learnor/dexsearch, separate your parameters with commas. Writing/learn Pikachu Thunderboltwithout a comma will fail to parse properly. - Confusing private message flags: Remember that
/wrequires a comma after the username before your message text begins, as in/w ProPlayer, Good game!. - Attempting staff commands in public battles: Regular players cannot use moderation commands like
/modchator/kickin standard matchmaking rooms. Those tools are reserved for room drivers, moderators, and global staff.
For more advanced platform guidelines and competitive rulesets, check out the official Smogon Mechanics Resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check my current ladder rating using commands?
Type /rating or /rank in any chat box to view your current Elo and ranking across the active server ladders. You can also append another user's name, such as /rank [username], to check their competitive standing.
Can I clear old chat logs from my screen?
Yes. Type /clear into the chat box to wipe away previous text lines and clean up your active window.
Why won't the /timer on command work for me?
The battle timer can only be toggled by the active players in the match or room staff. If you are spectating a match, you cannot turn the timer on or off.
How do I report a player who is harassing me in chat?
Type /report [username], [reason] to flag inappropriate behavior directly to online global and room moderators for review.
