Battle CDs, of which 50 can be located throughout Orre, are used to create simulated battles at Realgam Tower. The player is given a team of Pokémon to use in the battle. Generally, there are turn limits to the battles and the battles have a theme. The first time the player successfully completes a Battle CD, a prize is awarded.
Battle Sims are also found in Pokémon HQ Lab, hosted by the Battle Coach using the Battle Sim System. However, these are only beginner simulations.
The first battle in Pokémon XD, and the first time Michael is seen is in a Sim Battle, where Michael is using a Salamence, while the opposing Sim Trainer is using a Metagross.
If an attack move isn't the same type as the Pokémon using it, you may be dismayed by how little damage it causes. Learn to choose moves for your Pokémon after you confirm the Pokémon and the move's types.
Pokémon Type Matchups
Battle Sim 03
Pokémon Type Matchups
Every type of Pokémon has strengths and weaknesses to other types. Learn how Pokémon types match up.
Electric-type Pokémon are strong against Water-type Pokémon, but are weak against Ground-type Pokémon. Think about what a Ground-type Pokémon would be weak against.
Moves That Hit Multiple Pokémon
Battle Sim 04
Moves That Hit Multiple Pokémon
Learn about the pros and cons of attack moves that hit more than one Pokémon.
In a Double Battle, a move that hits both of your opponent's Pokémon is very useful. But, be careful. There are some moves that also hit the Pokémon in your party, too.
Pokémon with Two Types
Battle Sim 05
Pokémon with Two Types
A Pokémon that is of two types is a little complicated for matching move types. Let's learn how this works.
A Pokémon of a single type may have a type weakness, but a dual-type Pokémon may not have that same type weakness. On the other hand, a dual-type Pokémon may have even more type disadvantages than a single-type Pokémon. Knowing the difference is the key to victory.
Switching Pokémon In/Out of Battle
Battle Sim 06
Switching Pokémon In/Out of Battle
Learn how Pokémon should be switched out of battle and replaced with a reserve when at a clear disadvantage.
If the opposing Pokémon has a type advantage over yours, one tactic is to switch it out of the battle and switch in a Pokémon held in reserve. You should have Pokémon of different types so that you can flexibly respond to whatever type of Pokémon the opponent deploys.
Tactics That Rely on Abilities
Battle Sim 07
Tactics That Rely on Abilities
Every Pokémon has a single ability. Using Levitate as an example, learn how this ability can affect battles.
A Pokémon can hold one item and use it during a battle to restore HP, raise stats, and so on. The holding Pokémon will use the item automatically when needed, so it is very convenient. Not all items can be used by Pokémon, however.
Tactics Involving Status Problems
Battle Sim 09
Tactics Involving Status Problems
Learn how to battle advantageously by causing status problems in the opposing Pokémon.
Certain moves cause status problems, such as confusion or a burn, in targets. If you're facing a tough Pokémon that's hard to knock out, try using a move that enfeebles it with a status problem.
Tactics Involving Stat-Changing Moves
Battle Sim 10
Tactics Involving Stat-Changing Moves
Learn how moves that can boost or lower stats can help you win battles easily.
There are moves that can boost the states of your Pokémon. There are also moves that lower the stats of the opposing Pokémon. Try using moves that affect Pokémon stats on a tough opponent. You may get an easy victory out of it!
Single Battle Combos
Battle Sim 11
Single Battle Combos
Let's learn about a Single Battle combo using a basic weather combo.
The weather can affect the power and/or the behavior of certain moves. A move that is somewhat tricky to use can become extremely powerful if the weather condition is changed in its favor.
Double Battle Combos
Battle Sim 12
Double Battle Combos
Using combos can bring victory even when facing tough opponents. Learn how Double Battle combos work.
A Double Battle combo is one that involves both the Pokémon in battle, obviously. By having two Pokémon work as a duo, even tough opponents can be defeated.
The animation sequence used at the beginning of a Battle Sim is recycled from the Card e Room in Pokémon Colosseum.
The tutorial Battle Sims accessible from the Pokémon HQ Lab use the Mt. Battle lobby interior as their battlefield, except for "Salamence vs. Metagross," which uses Orre Colosseum. The Battle Sims accessible via Battle CDs use varying battlefields depending on the individual Battle CD being played; these include Pyrite Colosseum, the Realgam Colosseum, ONBS, and all three Poké Spots.