List of Pokémon with form differences: Difference between revisions

[[File:Cherrim Sunshine Form anime.png|thumb|{{p|Cherrim}} changing between forms in the {{pkmn|anime}}]]

Some Pokémon have official major [[Variant Pokémon|variations]] between individuals, known as '''forms''' (Japanese: '''すがた''' ''form''). These variations all have differing sprites in the games and are recognized by the "forms" section of the [[Pokédex]].

Starting in {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}}, every official different form has a name given by the [[Pokédex]], but {{p|Arceus}}, {{p|Genesect}}, and {{p|Furfrou}}'s alternate forms were not registered in the Pokédex prior to [[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire]]. From Generation II to IV, whichever sprite is seen first will be the one displayed in the Pokédex by default; e.g., if West Sea {{p|Shellos}} was encountered first its sprite will appear in the Pokédex by default, whereas if East Sea Shellos was encountered first its sprite will. In {{game|Black and White|s}}, the sprite displayed in the Pokédex can be changed after interacting with [[Cedric Juniper]] in [[Mistralton City]], even to a {{Shiny}} sprite, if it has been encountered. This option is automatically applied in {{game|Black 2 and White 2|s}}. In Generation VI onwards, the sprite can be changed as long as the player has owned the Pokémon.

At times, these differences are purely cosmetic and have no bearing on the difference in the Pokémon's stats from another; however, several Pokémon differ in stats (other than HP), [[type]], and [[Ability]] depending on their form. Among these are several {{pkmn2|Legendary}} and [[Mythical Pokémon]], whose unique forms can be changed between at will and are usually spelled as '''Formes''' (Japanese: '''フォルム''' ''Forme'').

Some Pokémon with form differences can change between their forms (e.g. Castform), while others are fixed and can not be changed (e.g. Unown).

In [[Pokémon Sun and Moon]], [[regional variant]] Pokémon were introduced. These Pokémon have adapted specifically for the environment of that region and have different appearances, types and abilities to Pokémon of the same species found elsewhere. The ones found in [[Alola]] are known as Alolan forms while the ones found in [[Galar]] are known as Galarian forms.

===Pikachu===

====Cosplay Pikachu====

{{main|Cosplay Pikachu}}

Cosplay {{p|Pikachu}} is a unique female Pikachu who has a black heart-shaped mark near the end of its tail. This unique Pikachu is able to be dressed up into different costumes corresponding to each of the five [[Contest condition|conditions]] ({{OBP|Cool|condition|Coolness}}, {{OBP|Beautiful|condition|Beauty}}, {{OBP|Cute|condition|Cuteness}}, {{OBP|Clever|condition|Cleverness}}, and {{OBP|Tough|condition|Toughness}}) and learn an exclusive [[move]] associated with that condition. Cosplay Pikachu can switch costumes anytime at any [[Contest Hall]]. It will lose the move it had with the last costume (if it still knows it), and gain the move from the new costume. If Cosplay Pikachu removes its costume while the only move it knows is the move tied to its costume, it learns {{m|Thunder Shock}}.

Unlike other Pikachu, it cannot [[Evolution|evolve]] or [[Pokémon breeding|breed]]. Additionally, Cosplay Pikachu cannot be deposited into [[Pokémon Bank]]; instead, it can only be traded between copies of [[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire]]. Cosplay Pikachu is not present in any other games and does not register as seperate form in the Pokémon Bank Pokédex despite it registering seperately in the Pokédex of Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.

In {{g|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}} (the only games it appears in), after the player takes part in their first {{pkmn|Contest|Pokémon Contest Spectacular}}, a {{tc|Pokémon Breeder}} will give the player Cosplay Pikachu.

{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; text-align:center; background:#FFF" width="250px"

| class="roundy" width="12.5%" style="background:#{{yellow color light}}" | Pikachu<br>[[File:025Pikachu.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="12.5%" style="background:#{{contest color light}}" | Cosplay Pikachu<br>[[File:Spr 6o 025 C.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="12.5%" style="background:#{{cool color light}}" | Pikachu Rock Star<br>[[File:025Pikachu-Rock Star.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small><br/>{{color2|000|Meteor Mash (move)|Meteor Mash}}

| class="roundy" width="12.5%" style="background:#{{beauty color light}}" | Pikachu Belle<br>[[File:025Pikachu-Belle.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small><br/>{{color2|000|Icicle Crash (move)|Icicle Crash}}

| class="roundy" width="12.5%" style="background:#{{cute color light}}" | Pikachu Pop Star<br>[[File:025Pikachu-Pop Star.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small><br/>{{color2|000|Draining Kiss (move)|Draining Kiss}}

| class="roundy" width="12.5%" style="background:#{{smart color light}}" | Pikachu, Ph. D<br>[[File:025Pikachu-PhD.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small><br/>{{color2|000|Electric Terrain (move)|Electric Terrain}}

| class="roundy" width="12.5%" style="background:#{{tough color light}}" | Pikachu Libre<br>[[File:025Pikachu-Libre.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small><br/>{{color2|000|Flying Press (move)|Flying Press}}

|}

====Pikachu in a cap====

These cap-wearing Pikachu are {{pkmn2|event}}-exclusive Pokémon that debuted in [[Pokémon Sun and Moon]], and are being distributed in celebration of the [[Pokémon anime]]'s [[M20|20th movie]], and by extension, the anime's 20th anniversary. Like [[Ash's Pikachu]], these Pikachu are always [[gender|male]] and cannot [[evolution|evolve]] or {{pkmn|breeding|breed}}. They also have access to the exclusive [[Z-Crystal]], [[Pikashunium Z]], and its [[Z-Move]], {{m|10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt}}.

Six variants exist in Sun and Moon, one for each of [[Ash's hat]]s between the anime's [[original series]] and its {{series|Sun & Moon}}. A seventh variant debuts in [[Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon]], wearing the Partner Cap, Ash's hat from the [[M20|20th movie]].

{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; text-align:center; background:#FFF" width="250px"

| class="roundy" width="12.5%" style="background:#{{yellow color light}}" | Pikachu<br>[[File:025Pikachu.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="12.5%" style="background:#{{Colorschemedark|Kanto}}" | {{color2|000|Original series|Original Cap}}<br>Pikachu<br>[[File:025Pikachu-Original.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="12.5%" style="background:#{{Colorschemelight|Alola}}" | {{color2|000|M20|Partner Cap}}<br>Pikachu<br>[[File:025Pikachu-Partner.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small>

===Pichu===

{{main|Spiky-eared Pichu}}

Spiky-eared {{p|Pichu}} is a unique female Pichu who has a tuft of hair on the end of its left ear. Spiky-eared Pichu's [[Pokéathlon]] [[performance]] stats are different than a normal Pichu's. She cannot [[Evolution|evolve]] or be [[trade]]d, and she cannot be [[Poké Transfer|transferred]] to the [[Generation V]] games.

In {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}} (the only games it appears in), if the player takes a {{DL|List of Nintendo event Pokémon with in-game effects|Pikachu-colored Pichu}} to the [[Ilex Forest]], Spiky-eared Pichu will join the player.

The Form also appears in Super Smash Brothers Ultimate as an alternate costume for Pichu, marking its first appearance since HeartGold or SoulSilver

{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{electric color light}}" width="225px"

|-

| Pichu<br>[[File:172Pichu Dream.png|110px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small>

| Spiky-eared<br>[[File:Spiky-eared Pichu DP 1.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Electric}}</small>

===Unown===

{{incomplete|section|needs=How does the "independent value" after Generation 3 work?}}

{{p|Unown}} has many forms, each corresponding to a typographical character. It was the first Pokémon to have multiple forms in the games. From its debut in [[Generation II]], there are 26 forms of Unown, each corresponding to each of the 26 letters of the {{wp|Latin alphabet}}. Starting in the [[Generation III]] games, Unown has two additional forms, corresponding to the {{wp|question mark}} and {{wp|exclamation mark}}. These forms are not interchangeable.

In {{game2|Gold|Silver|Crystal}}, there is a special [[Unown Mode]], an upgrade to the Pokédex that was developed by the researchers at the [[Ruins of Alph]] to record the different forms of Unown, which is available after the player has caught several Unown. In {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}}, there is the [[Unown Report]], which is obtainable after the player completes the first tile puzzle in the [[Ruins of Alph]].

In the Generation II games, Unown's form is determined by its {{IV}}s, which results in some strange phenomena; for example, in Generation II, only Unown I and V can be {{Shiny}} due to Shininess also being determined by IVs in these games. In the [[Generation III]] games, Unown's form is determined by its [[personality value]]. From the Generation IV games onward, an independent value determines the Pokémon form.

Though the form has no bearing on [[base stats]], punctuation Unown have different [[performance]] stats to alphabetical Unown.

| N<br>[[File:201Unown N Dream.png|96x96px]]

| O<br>[[File:201Unown O Dream.png|96x96px]]

| P<br>[[File:201Unown P Dream.png|96x96px]]

| !<br>[[File:201Unown Exclamation Dream.png|96x96px]]

| ?<br>[[File:201Unown Question Dream.png|96x96px]]

{{p|Castform}} has four different forms, which its [[Ability]] {{a|Forecast}} causes it to change between in different types of [[weather]]. It is the first Pokémon to have interchangeable forms in battle in the games.

Normally, Castform is {{type|Normal}} and has a plain appearance with a gray body. It takes on this form in clear weather, in any weather without a specific form, and if the weather has its effects negated by {{a|Cloud Nine}} or {{a|Air Lock}}.

In [[harsh sunlight]], Forecast changes Castform to its Sunny Form, which is {{type|Fire}} and resembles the sun. In [[rain]], Forecast changes Castform to its Rainy Form, which is {{type|Water}} and resembles a raindrop. In {{weather|hail}}, Forecast changes Castform to its Snowy Form, which is {{type|Ice}} and resembles a snowy cloud. Castform reverts to its normal form when [[Recall|withdrawn]] from battle.

In Generation III and IV, if Castform's Ability {{a|Forecast}} is suppressed or replaced, Castform will remain in its current form (regardless of the weather). In Generation V onward, if Castform's Ability {{a|Forecast}} is suppressed or replaced, Castform will revert to its normal form (regardless of the weather).

Castform's [[stats]] do not change between any of these forms.

| class="roundy" width="25%" style="background:#{{normal color light}}" | Normal<br>[[File:351Castform.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Normal}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="25%" style="background:#{{fire color light}}" | Sunny Form<br>[[File:351Castform-Sunny.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Fire}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="25%" style="background:#{{water color light}}" | Rainy Form<br>[[File:351Castform-Rainy.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Water}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="25%" style="background:#{{ice color light}}" | Snowy Form<br>[[File:351Castform-Snowy.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Ice}}</small>

{{p|Deoxys}} has four different forms which it can switch between. It was the first Pokémon whose [[base stats]] and [[move]] compatibility differed depending on its form.

In the [[Generation III]] games, Deoxys's forms are game-specific, such that it will always be in one particular form while in the player's possession (although it will be in Normal Forme in the wild).

*In {{game|Ruby and Sapphire|s}} and {{g|Colosseum}} and {{XD}}, it will be in Normal Forme.

*In {{game3|FireRed and LeafGreen|Pokémon FireRed|s}}, it will be in Attack Forme.

*In {{game|Emerald}}, it will be in Speed Forme.

*In {{game2|Diamond|Pearl|Platinum}}, using meteorites outside in [[Veilstone City]].

*In {{game|HeartGold and SoulSilver|s}}, using meteorites outside on {{rt|3|Kanto}}.

*In {{4v|Black|White|2}}, using meteorites in the {{DL|Nacrene City|Nacrene Museum}} in [[Nacrene City]].

*In {{g|X and Y}}, using meteorites in the {{DL|Ambrette Town|Fossil Lab}} in [[Ambrette Town]].

*In {{g|Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire}}, using the meteorite in [[Professor Cozmo]]'s house in [[Fallarbor Town]].

* In {{g|Sun and Moon}} and {{g|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon}}, using the meteorite next to [[Sophocles]] in the [[Hokulani Observatory]] on [[Mount Hokulani]].

Deoxys's Normal Forme is the default form it takes, as well as the form it appears in in {{game|Ruby and Sapphire|s}}. In this form, its stats are more balanced, though it is notably far more offensive than it is defensive.

Deoxys's Attack Forme has higher {{stat|Attack}} and {{stat|Special Attack}} than its other forms (being the non-Mega Evolved Pokémon with the highest Attack and Special Attack) and learns more offensive moves. Its {{stat|Defense}} and {{stat|Special Defense}} are abysmal, much lower than its Normal Form. Its {{stat|Speed}} remains the same as its Normal Forme.

Deoxys's Defense Forme has much higher {{stat|Defense}} and {{stat|Special Defense}} than its other forms and learns more defensive moves. Its {{stat|Attack}} and {{stat|Special Attack}} are much lower than its Normal Forme, and its {{stat|Speed}} is also significantly lower than its Normal Forme.

Deoxys's Speed Forme has much higher {{stat|Speed}} than its other forms (being the Pokémon with the highest Speed) and learns many increased [[priority]] moves.

Deoxys has the same {{stat|HP}} stat in all of its forms.

{| style="margin:auto"

{{Compare|name=Deoxys|forme=Normal Forme|type=Psychic|ndex=386|ab=Pressure|how={{color2|000|Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire Versions|Ruby and Sapphire}}|HP=50|Attack=150|Defense=50|SpAtk=150|SpDef=50|Speed=150}}

{{Compare|name=Deoxys|forme=Attack Forme|type=Psychic|image=386Deoxys-Attack|ab=Pressure|how={{color2|000|Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen Versions|FireRed}}|HP=50|Attack=180|Defense=20|SpAtk=180|SpDef=20|Speed=150}}

{{Compare|name=Deoxys|forme=Defense Forme|type=Psychic|image=386Deoxys-Defense|ab=Pressure|how={{color2|000|Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen Versions|LeafGreen}}|HP=50|Attack=70|Defense=160|SpAtk=70|SpDef=160|Speed=90}}

{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; text-align:center; background:#{{psychic color}}; border:5px solid #{{psychic color light}}"

! style="background:#{{psychic color dark}}; {{roundytl|5px}}" | {{color2|{{psychic color light}}|Level|Lv.}}

| style="background:#{{psychic color light}}" | [[File:386Deoxys.png|96px]]<br>{{color|{{psychic color dark}}|Normal Forme}}<br><small>{{typecolor|Psychic}}</small>

| style="background:#{{psychic color light}}" | [[File:386Deoxys-Attack.png|96px]]<br>{{color|{{psychic color dark}}|Attack Forme}}<br><small>{{typecolor|Psychic}}</small>

| style="background:#{{psychic color light}}" | [[File:386Deoxys-Defense.png|96px]]<br>{{color|{{psychic color dark}}|Defense Forme}}<br><small>{{typecolor|Psychic}}</small>

| style="background:#{{psychic color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" | [[File:386Deoxys-Speed.png|96px]]<br>{{color|{{psychic color dark}}|Speed Forme}}<br><small>{{typecolor|Psychic}}</small>

| rowspan="2" style="text-align:right; background:#{{psychic color dark}}" | {{color|{{psychic color light}}|1}}

| colspan="4" style="background:#{{normal color light}}" | ''{{mcolor|Leer|{{normal color dark}}}}''

| colspan="4" style="background:#{{normal color light}}" | {{mcolor|Wrap|{{normal color dark}}}}

| style="text-align:right; background:#{{psychic color dark}}" | {{color|{{psychic color light}}|7}}

| colspan="4" style="background:#{{ghost color light}}" | {{mcolor|Night Shade|{{ghost color dark}}}}

| style="text-align:right; background:#{{psychic color dark}}" | {{color|{{psychic color light}}|13}}

| colspan="3" style="background:#{{psychic color light}}" | ''{{mcolor|Teleport|{{psychic color dark}}}}''

| style="background:#{{normal color light}}" | ''{{mcolor|Double Team|{{normal color dark}}}}''

| style="text-align:right; background:#{{psychic color dark}}" | {{color|{{psychic color light}}|19}}

| style="background:#{{dark color light}}" | {{mcolor|Knock Off|{{dark color dark}}}}

| style="background:#{{dark color light}}" | ''{{mcolor|Taunt|{{dark color dark}}}}''

| colspan="2" style="background:#{{dark color light}}" | {{mcolor|Knock Off|{{dark color dark}}}}

| rowspan="2" colspan="2" style="background:#{{psychic color light}}" | ''{{mcolor|Cosmic Power|{{psychic color dark}}}}''

| style="background:#{{steel color light}}" | ''{{mcolor|Iron Defense|{{steel color dark}}}}''

|}{{-}}

Both {{p|Burmy}} and its female evolution, {{p|Wormadam}}, have three separate forms. Burmy can change form freely, changing its cloak depending on the environment in which it last participated in a battle (so [[Exp. Share]] alone will not change its form). Wormadam cannot change form; when a Burmy evolves into Wormadam, it retains its cloak.

Apart from {{pkmn|breeding}} and [[evolution]], Burmy's cloak is purely cosmetic; conversely, different cloaks of Wormadam have different [[type]]s, stats, and learnsets. Bred Burmy will have the same cloak as the mother, will be in the same cloak as a Burmy or Wormadam bred with Ditto, or will be in Plant Cloak if bred from a {{p|Mothim}} and a {{p|Ditto}}.

If a Burmy last battled in a grassy area or water, it changes into its Plant Cloak. If female, Plant Cloak Burmy will evolve into Plant Cloak Wormadam, which is a {{2t|Bug|Grass}} Pokémon. This cloak is composed of leaves and twigs.

If a Burmy last battled in a sandy or rocky area, it changes into its Sandy Cloak. If female, Sandy Cloak Burmy will evolve into Sandy Cloak Wormadam, which is a {{2t|Bug|Ground}} Pokémon. This cloak is composed of sand and rocks.

If a Burmy last battled in a building or urban area, it changes into its Trash Cloak. If female, Trash Cloak Burmy will evolve into Trash Cloak Wormadam, which is a {{2t|Bug|Steel}} Pokémon. This cloak is composed of pink {{wp|building insulation|insulation}}.

{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; text-align:center; background:#FFF" width="375px"

|-

| class="roundy" width="33%" style="background:#{{grass color light}}" | Plant Cloak<br>[[File:412Burmy-Plant.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Bug}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="33%" style="background:#{{ground color light}}" | Sandy Cloak<br>[[File:412Burmy-Sandy.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Bug}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="33%" style="background:#{{steel color light}}" | Trash Cloak<br>[[File:412Burmy-Trash.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Bug}}</small>

|}

{{Compare|name=Wormadam|forme=Plant Cloak|type=Bug|type2=Grass|image=413Wormadam-Plant|ab=Anticipation|abd=Overcoat|how={{color2|000|Evolution|Evolve}} after battle<br>on grassy terrain|HP=60|Attack=59|Defense=85|SpAtk=79|SpDef=105|Speed=36}}

| colspan="3" style="background:#{{bug color light}}" | ''{{mcolor|Quiver Dance|{{bug color dark}}}}''

| style="text-align:right; background:#{{bug color dark}}" | {{color|{{bug color light}}|1}}

| colspan="3" style="background:#{{steel color light}}" | {{mcolor|Metal Burst|{{steel color dark}}}}

| colspan="3" style="background:#{{normal color light}}" | ''{{mcolor|Protect|{{normal color dark}}}}''

| style="text-align:right; background:#{{bug color dark}}" | {{color|{{bug color light}}|{{tt|Evo.|Learned upon evolving}}}}

===Cherrim===

{{p|Cherrim}} changes form depending on the [[weather]]. During [[harsh sunlight]], it changes into Sunshine Form; otherwise, it is in its Overcast Form. Due to its Ability {{a|Flower Gift}}, its {{stat|Attack}} and {{stat|Special Defense}} will also increase in its Sunshine Form.

In Generation IV, Cherrim changes form independently of its Ability. Starting in Generation V, it is Cherrim's Ability that changes its form.

In Japanese, the names of Cherrim's forms use 「フォルム」 ''form'', the term otherwise only used in the names of forms localized as Forme in English.

| class="roundy" width="50%" style="background:#{{grass color light}}" | Overcast Form<br>[[File:421Cherrim-Overcast.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Grass}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="50%" style="background:#{{fire color light}}" | Sunshine Form<br>[[File:421Cherrim-Sunny.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Grass}}</small>

===Shellos and Gastrodon{{anchor|Shellos}}{{anchor|Gastrodon}}===

{{p|Shellos}} and {{p|Gastrodon}} differ in appearance depending on where they were caught. This is purely a cosmetic difference, and these Pokémon cannot change between forms.

In [[Sinnoh]], West Sea Shellos and Gastrodon are encountered west of [[Mt. Coronet]], and are pink in color; East Sea Shellos and Gastrodon are encountered east of Mt. Coronet, and are blue in color. There is also a slight difference in bodily appearance depending on the form.

In other regions, only one form appears in the wild per game. In [[Generation VI]] [[Hoenn]], Shellos appears as a {{DL|DexNav|hidden Pokémon}}, with West Sea appearing in Omega Ruby and East Sea appearing in Alpha Sapphire. Gastrodon only appears in its West Sea form in [[Kalos]]'s [[Friend Safari]]. In [[Alola]], only East Sea Shellos and Gastrodon appear in the wild.

[[Pokémon breeding|Bred]] Shellos are the same form as their mother, or the same form as the Shellos or Gastrodon parent if bred with {{p|Ditto}}.

{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; text-align:center; background:#FFF" width="225px"

|-

| class="roundy" width="50%" style="background:#{{psychic color light}}" | West Sea<br>[[File:422Shellos-West.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Water}}</small><br>[[File:423Gastrodon-West.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Water}}{{typecolor|Ground}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="50%" style="background:#{{water color light}}" | East Sea<br>[[File:422Shellos-East.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Water}}</small><br>[[File:423Gastrodon-East.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Water}}{{typecolor|Ground}}</small>

|}

{{p|Rotom}} has five alternate forms it can change between, in addition to its normal form. To take on these alternate forms, Rotom possesses a different {{wp|household appliance}}, and each has its own special [[move]]. These alternate forms were introduced in {{game|Platinum}}.

*Wash Rotom, which has possessed a {{wp|washing machine}}, knows {{m|Hydro Pump}} and is {{2t|Electric|Water}}

*Mow Rotom, which has possessed a {{wp|lawn mower|lawnmower}}, knows {{m|Leaf Storm}} and is {{2t|Electric|Grass}}

In [[Generation IV]], all forms of Rotom are {{2t|Electric|Ghost}}-type; from Generation V onward, the appliance forms replace the Ghost type with the type of their associated move. All appliance forms have the same base stats, with a higher total than that of Rotom's regular form; the only base stat of normal Rotom that is higher than its appliance forms is its Speed.

Using these locations, Rotom can also return the appliance to change back to normal form.

Upon changing from an appliance form, it will forget the special move associated with that appliance form. Upon changing into an appliance form, it will learn the special move associated with the form. When changing form, if Rotom knows four moves but not the special move of its previous form, the player will be prompted to replace a move with the new exclusive move (Rotom cannot change to an appliance form unless it does). If Rotom's only known move is its special move and it changes to its normal form, then the Rotom will learn {{m|Thunder Shock}}. In [[Generation IV]] and {{gen|V}}, if Rotom forgets the move that is tied to its appliance form, it changes back into its normal form; in Generation VI, Rotom can remain in an appliance form even if it forgets the associated special move.

[[Pokémon Egg|Hatched]] Rotom are always in normal form.

In [[Generation IV]], Rotom changes back to its normal form when taken into the [[Union Room]] or [[Wi-Fi Club]], or when deposited in the {{pkmn|Day Care}}.

Rotom's appliance forms first appeared as silhouettes in August 2008, shortly before the Japanese release of {{game|Platinum}}, with a statement that indicated that these Pokémon would be in the game. Days before the game's release, it was revealed that these Pokémon were the alternate forms of Rotom. These new forms made their debut in Pokémon Platinum, and have been included in every [[core series]] game since.

{| style="margin:auto"

{| style="margin:auto"

{{Compare|name=Rotom|forme=Frost Rotom|type=Electric|type2=Ice|image=479Rotom-Frost|ab=Levitate|HP=50|Attack=65|Defense=107|SpAtk=105|SpDef=107|Speed=86}}

{{Compare|name=Rotom|forme=Fan Rotom|type=Electric|type2=Flying|image=479Rotom-Fan|ab=Levitate|HP=50|Attack=65|Defense=107|SpAtk=105|SpDef=107|Speed=86}}

{{Compare|name=Rotom|forme=Mow Rotom|type=Electric|type2=Grass|image=479Rotom-Mow|ab=Levitate|HP=50|Attack=65|Defense=107|SpAtk=105|SpDef=107|Speed=86}}

{{p|Giratina}} has two forms it can change between. The Origin Forme was introduced in {{game|Platinum}}.

In the [[Pokémon world]], it is normally in its Altered Forme, which is a winged hexapod; in the [[Distortion World]] or while holding a [[Griseous Orb]], it is in its Origin Forme, which is serpentine with six appendages.

The two forms have different stats and Abilities; the Origin Forme is more offense-oriented, while the Altered Forme is more defense-oriented.

{{Compare|name=Giratina|forme=Origin Forme|type=Ghost|type2=Dragon|image=487Giratina-Origin|ab=Levitate|how={{color2|000|Distortion World}} or<br>{{color2|000|Pokémon world}}<br>with {{color2|000|Griseous Orb}}|HP=150|Attack=120|Defense=100|SpAtk=120|SpDef=100|Speed=90}}

|}

===Shaymin===

{{p|Shaymin}} has two forms it can change between. The Sky Forme was introduced in {{game|Platinum}}.

Normally, Shaymin is in its Land Forme, which is {{type|Grass}} and resembles a hedgehog. When exposed to a [[Gracidea]], Shaymin transforms into its Sky Forme, which is {{2t|Grass|Flying}}-type and white in color.

Sky Forme Shaymin will change back into its Land Forme at night or if it is {{status|frozen}} (and cannot change into Sky Forme while either is the case); Shaymin also changes back to Land Forme when deposited in the [[PC]] (prior to Generation VII), when withdrawn from the PC (Generation VII), when deposited in [[Pokémon Bank]], or when deposited in the [[Pokémon Day Care]]/[[Pokémon Nursery]].

The two forms have different stats, {{Abilities}}, [[type]]s, learnsets, and [[cry|cries]].

{| style="margin:auto"

{{Compare|name=Shaymin|forme=Land Forme|type=Grass|image=492Shaymin-Land|ab=Natural Cure|how={{color2|000|Time|Nighttime}} or {{color2|000|Freeze (status ailment)|frozen}}|HP=100|Attack=100|Defense=100|SpAtk=100|SpDef=100|Speed=100}}

{{Compare|name=Shaymin|forme=Sky Forme|type=Grass|type2=Flying|image=492Shaymin-Sky|ab=Serene Grace|how={{color2|000|Gracidea}}|HP=100|Attack=103|Defense=75|SpAtk=120|SpDef=75|Speed=127}}

|}

| style="background:#{{grass color light}}" | [[File:492Shaymin-Land.png|96px]]<br>{{color|{{grass color dark}}|Land Forme}}<br><small>{{typecolor|Grass}}</small>

| style="background:#{{flying color light}}; {{roundytr|5px}}" | [[File:492Shaymin-Sky.png|96px]]<br>{{color|{{flying color dark}}|Sky Forme}}<br><small>{{typecolor|Grass}}{{typecolor|Flying}}</small>

{{p|Arceus}} has eighteen different type form variations, which correspond to the eighteen different [[type]]s.

Arceus's type depends on its held [[Plate]] or type-specific [[Z-Crystal]], becoming the same type as the type that Plate enhances or the Z-Crystal corresponds to, remaining {{type|Normal}} when not holding a Plate or Z-Crystal.

While its base stats remain constant despite its changing type, its [[Pokéathlon]] performance differs. Additionally, it can learn {{m|Draco Meteor}} only while holding the [[Draco Plate]].

In the [[Generation IV]] games, there is unused data and a sprite programmed for a {{type|???}} {{p|Arceus}}, but it cannot be obtained in the games as there is no ???-type Plate. This data no longer exists in [[Generation V]] due to the removal of the ??? type.

Prior to [[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire]], Arceus's alternate forms are not registered in the [[Pokédex]].

| class="roundy" style="background:#{{ice color light}}" | {{typecolor|Ice}}<br>[[File:493Arceus Ice Dream.png|96px]]

{{p|Basculin}} has two different forms, the Red-Striped Form and the Blue-Striped Form. The Red-Striped Form has a red stripe with wide eyes and spiky fins; the Blue-Striped Form has a blue stripe with squinted eyes and smooth fins. These forms are non-interchangeable.

*In {{game|Black and White|s|Pokémon Black}} and {{game|Black and White|s 2|Black 2}}, red-striped Basculin can be encountered normally, while blue-striped Basculin can only be encountered by {{m|surf}}ing on or [[fishing]] in [[Phenomenon|rippling water]].

*In {{game|Black and White|s|Pokémon White}} and {{game|Black and White|s 2|White 2}}, blue-striped Basculin can be encountered normally, while red-striped Basculin can only be encountered by surfing on or fishing in rippling water.

*In {{pkmn|X and Y|Pokémon X}}, blue-striped Basculin can only be encountered using a [[Good Rod]] while red-striped Basculin can only be encountered using a [[Super Rod]]. This order is reversed in {{pkmn|X and Y|Pokémon Y}}, with red-striped Basculin requiring a Good Rod and blue-striped Basculin requiring a Super Rod. {{rt|21|Kalos}} is the exception, where only red-striped Basculin can be caught with either rod.

*In {{pkmn|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon|Pokémon Ultra Sun}}, red-striped Basculin can be found by fishing while blue-striped Basculin must be traded for. This is reversed in {{pkmn|Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon|Pokémon Ultra Moon}}, with only blue-striped Basculin being found naturally.

[[Pokémon breeding|Bred]] Basculin are the same form as their mother, or the same form as the Basculin parent if bred with {{p|Ditto}}.

Wild red-striped Basculin have a 5% chance of holding a [[Deep Sea Tooth]] while wild blue-striped Basculin have a 5% chance of holding a [[Deep Sea Scale]].

In Pokémon Black and White, blue-striped Basculin have the same two standard possible Abilities as red-striped Basculin—{{a|Reckless}} and {{a|Adaptability}} (and are listed as such in [[Pokédex 3D]]); however, the blue-striped Basculin that can be obtained via in-game trade in Pokémon White has the Ability {{a|Rock Head}}. In Pokémon Black 2 and White 2, wild blue-striped Basculin's two standard possible Abilities are {{a|Rock Head}} and {{a|Adaptability}}, while red-striped Basculin's stay the same (and are listed as such in [[Pokédex 3D Pro]]); however, blue-striped Basculin [[Pokémon breeding|bred]] in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 have Reckless and Adaptability as their two standard Abilities. When a blue-striped Basculin with Reckless is transferred from [[Generation V]] to [[Generation VI]], its Ability is changed to Rock Head.

{{Compare|name=Basculin|forme=Red-Striped Form|type=Water|image=550Basculin-Red|ab=Reckless|ab2=Adaptability|abd=Mold Breaker|HP=70|Attack=92|Defense=65|SpAtk=80|SpDef=55|Speed=98}}

{{Compare|name=Basculin|forme=Blue-Striped Form|type=Water|image=550Basculin-Blue|ab=Rock Head|ab2=Adaptability|abd=Mold Breaker<!--|abo=Reckless-->|HP=70|Attack=92|Defense=65|SpAtk=80|SpDef=55|Speed=98}}

If {{p|Darmanitan}} has {{a|Zen Mode}} as its Ability, it changes from Standard Mode into Zen Mode when its HP drops to below half in battle. It can only remain in Zen Mode in battle.

Standard Mode Darmanitan is {{type|Fire}} and red in color. Zen Mode Darmanitan is {{2t|Fire|Psychic}}-type and blue in color.

The two forms have different stats, such that Zen Mode Darmanitan swaps the Attack and Special Attack of Standard Mode, and has higher defenses but lower Speed.

{| style="margin:auto"

{{Compare|name=Darmanitan|forme=Standard Mode|size=x96|type=Fire|image=555Darmanitan|ab=Zen Mode|HP=105|Attack=140|Defense=55|SpAtk=30|SpDef=55|Speed=95}}

|}

===Deerling and Sawsbuck{{anchor|Deerling}}{{anchor|Sawsbuck}}===

{{p|Deerling}} and {{p|Sawsbuck}} have four different interchangeable forms, each corresponding to a [[seasons|season]]. These forms are purely cosmetic.

In the [[Generation V]] games, Deerling and Sawsbuck will only change their form to match the current season if they are in the player's [[party]] when: the player steps outside from a [[cave]] or building such that the season changes, the player receives an {{pkmn|Egg}} from the [[Pokémon Day Care|Day-Care]] Man, or a saved game is loaded. All wild, [[Pokémon breeding|bred]], or NPC Trainer-owned Deerling and Sawsbuck will match the current season, with the exception of Trainers in the [[Battle Subway]] and the [[Pokémon World Tournament]] where these Pokémon are always in Spring Form.

In [[Generation VI]], all wild and NPC Trainer-owned Deerling and Sawsbuck appear in Spring Form. Because seasons have been abandoned as a mechanic, Deerling and Sawsbuck do not change appearance, and their Summer, Autumn, and Winter forms must be [[Poké Transporter|transferred]] from a [[Generation V]] game. Bred Deerling are the same form as their mother, or the same form as the Deerling or Sawsbuck parent if bred with {{p|Ditto}}.

{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; text-align:center; background:#FFF" width="225px"

| class="roundy" width="25%" style="background:#{{winter color}}" | Winter Form<br>[[File:585Deerling-Winter.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Normal}}{{typecolor|Grass}}</small><br>[[File:586Sawsbuck-Winter.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Normal}}{{typecolor|Grass}}</small>

===Forces of Nature{{anchor|Tornadus}}{{anchor|Thundurus}}{{anchor|Landorus}}===

The [[Forces of Nature]]—{{p|Tornadus}}, {{p|Thundurus}}, and {{p|Landorus}}—have two interchangeable forms each.

Normally, they are in their Incarnate Forme. When exposed to a [[Reveal Glass]], they change into their Therian Forme. Their Therian Formes were introduced in [[Pokémon Black and White Versions 2|Pokémon Black 2 and White 2]].

The two forms have different stats, {{Abilities}}, and [[cry|cries]]. Even if they have their Hidden Ability, in Therian Forme each Pokémon only has one possible Ability.

In the [[Generation V]] games, they cannot be traded while in their Therian Forme.

{| style="margin:auto"

{{Compare|name=Tornadus|forme=Incarnate Forme|type=Flying|ndex=641|ab=Prankster|abd=Defiant|HP=79|Attack=115|Defense=70|SpAtk=125|SpDef=80|Speed=111}}

{{Compare|name=Thundurus|forme=Incarnate Forme|type=Electric|type2=Flying|ndex=642|ab=Prankster|abd=Defiant|HP=79|Attack=115|Defense=70|SpAtk=125|SpDef=80|Speed=111}}

{{Compare|name=Landorus|forme=Incarnate Forme|type=Ground|type2=Flying|ndex=645|ab=Sand Force|abd=Sheer Force|HP=89|Attack=125|Defense=90|SpAtk=115|SpDef=80|Speed=101}}

|}

{{Compare|name=Tornadus|forme=Therian Forme|type=Flying|image=641Tornadus-Therian|ab=Regenerator|HP=79|Attack=100|Defense=80|SpAtk=110|SpDef=90|Speed=121}}

{{Compare|name=Thundurus|forme=Therian Forme|type=Electric|type2=Flying|image=642Thundurus-Therian|ab=Volt Absorb|HP=79|Attack=105|Defense=70|SpAtk=145|SpDef=80|Speed=101}}

{{Compare|name=Landorus|forme=Therian Forme|type=Ground|type2=Flying|image=645Landorus-Therian|ab=Intimidate|HP=89|Attack=145|Defense=90|SpAtk=105|SpDef=80|Speed=91}}

|}

{{p|Kyurem}}, in addition to its normal form, has two other forms: White Kyurem and Black Kyurem. They are the [[game mascot]]s of [[Pokémon Black and White Versions 2|Pokémon Black 2 and White 2]], which they were introduced in.

In the games, Kyurem changes its form through the use of the [[DNA Splicers]], which fuses it with {{p|Reshiram}} or {{p|Zekrom}}. The combination retains Kyurem's Poké Ball and [[held item]]. This fusion is reversible, with Reshiram or Zekrom remaining unaltered from before being fused, including whatever item it may have been holding. The DNA Splicers can only fuse one Kyurem at a time. White Kyurem and Black Kyurem cannot be deposited into [[Pokémon Bank]], nor can they be [[trade]]d.

White Kyurem has the Ability {{a|Turboblaze}}, learns the moves {{m|Fusion Flare}} and {{m|Ice Burn}}, and its cry is a combination of normal Kyurem and Reshiram's cries.

Black Kyurem has the Ability {{a|Teravolt}}, learns the moves {{m|Fusion Bolt}} and {{m|Freeze Shock}}, and its cry is a combination of normal Kyurem and Zekrom's cries.

{| style="margin:auto"

{{Compare|name=Kyurem|type=Dragon|type2=Ice|ndex=646|ab=Pressure|HP=125|Attack=130|Defense=90|SpAtk=130|SpDef=90|Speed=95}}

| style="text-align:right; background:#{{dragon color dark}}" | {{color|{{dragon color light}}|8}}

| colspan="3" style="background:#{{psychic color light}}" | ''{{mcolor|Imprison|{{psychic color dark}}}}''

| style="text-align:right; background:#{{dragon color dark}}" | {{color|{{dragon color light}}|15}}

| colspan="3" style="background:#{{rock color light}}" | {{mcolor|Ancient Power|{{rock color dark}}}}

|-

| style="text-align:right; background:#{{dragon color dark}}" | {{color|{{dragon color light}}|22}}

| colspan="3" style="background:#{{ice color light}}" | '''{{mcolor|Ice Beam|{{ice color dark}}}}'''

| style="text-align:right; background:#{{dragon color dark}}" | {{color|{{dragon color light}}|29}}

===Keldeo===

{{p|Keldeo}} has two interchangeable forms: Ordinary Form and Resolute Form. These forms are mostly cosmetic. The Resolute Form was introduced in [[Pokémon Black and White Versions 2|Pokémon Black 2 and White 2]].

If Keldeo is taught {{m|Secret Sword}} from Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 onward, it will change into Resolute Form. If it forgets Secret Sword, it returns to Ordinary Form. Keldeo taught Secret Sword in {{game|Black and White|s}} remain in Ordinary Form in other games.

{| class="roundy" style="margin:auto; text-align:center; background:#FFF" width="225px"

| class="roundy" width="50%" style="background:#{{water color light}}" | Ordinary Form<br>[[File:647Keldeo.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Water}}{{typecolor|Fighting}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="50%" style="background:#{{fighting color light}}" | Resolute Form<br>[[File:647Keldeo-Resolute.png|96px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Water}}{{typecolor|Fighting}}</small>

===Meloetta===

{{p|Meloetta}} has two interchangeable forms: Aria Forme and Pirouette Forme. Aria Forme is {{2t|Normal|Psychic}}. Pirouette Forme is {{2t|Normal|Fighting}}.

Normally, it is in Aria Forme, which is the only form it can take outside of battle. If Meloetta uses the move {{m|Relic Song}} in battle, it changes between the two forms. It reverts to Aria Forme if withdrawn.

{{Compare|name=Meloetta|forme=Pirouette Forme|type=Normal|type2=Fighting|image=648Meloetta-Pirouette|ab=Serene Grace|how=Use {{mcolor|Relic Song|000}}|HP=100|Attack=128|Defense=90|SpAtk=77|SpDef=77|Speed=128}}

===Genesect===

In the games, {{p|Genesect}} changes forms when a [[Drive]] is attached to its back. These forms have no direct effect, although they do change the type of Genesect's [[signature move]] {{m|Techno Blast}}.

*If no Drive is held, Techno Blast will be {{type|Normal}} and Genesect will appear to have a dark yellow Drive.

*If a [[Shock Drive]] is held, Techno Blast will be {{type|Electric}} and Genesect will appear to have a light yellow Drive.

*If a [[Burn Drive]] is held, Techno Blast will be {{type|Fire}} and Genesect will appear to have a red Drive.

*If a [[Chill Drive]] is held, Techno Blast will be {{type|Ice}} and Genesect will appear to have an ice blue Drive.

*If a [[Douse Drive]] is held, Techno Blast will be {{type|Water}} and Genesect will appear to have a blue Drive.

Prior to [[Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire]], Genesect's alternate appearances are not registered in the [[Pokédex]].

{| class="roundy" style="background:#FFF; margin:auto" width="225px"

|- style="margin:auto; text-align:center"

| class="roundy" width="25%" style="background:#C6C6A7" | Normal Genesect<br>[[File:649Genesect Dream.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Bug}}{{typecolor|Steel}}</small>

| class="roundy" width="25%" style="background:#FAE078" | Shock Drive Genesect<br>[[File:649Genesect S Dream.png|100px]]<br><small>{{typecolor|Bug}}{{typecolor|Steel}}</small>