Opportunist is a Pokemon ability introduced in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, and is the signature skill of Espathra. Abilities are bonus effects that a Pokemon adds to the battlefield. These effects work separately from moves. Opportunist is a peculiar ability that doesn’t always go into effect, making it appear useless during a match. The reactions of Opportunist will only take effect when your opponent does a specific thing. It is worth capturing an Espathra with that skill, as it can be useful in battle.
How Does Opportunist Work in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet?
Espathra is the psychic-type ostrich Pokemon that can be found roaming in most high-level areas of the Paldea Region. It evolves from a Flittle at level 35. Espathra can also know the Fisk ability rather than Opportunist, but the latter is better than the former in most situations. Fisk allows a Pokemon to identify the held item of an opposing Pokemon.
When an opposing Pokemon raises its stats with a move, the Opportunist ability allows Espathra to copy the same stats. For example, if an opponent uses Cotton Guard to increase its Defense stat, Espathra will copy it and increase its Defense stat. The ability doesn’t work against ally Pokemon.
However, Opportunist will also trigger if an ally uses Swagger or Flatter against an enemy Pokemon. Swagger and Flatter increase an opponent’s Attack and Special Attack but will leave them confused. Opportunist will allow Espathra to gain the stat boosts from Swagger and Flatter, yet without the confusion. If an opponent increases multiple stats in one turn, Espathra will sum them up in the end.
Related:
How To Get Dipplin in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet The Teal Mask
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet The Teal Mask is available on Nintendo Switch.
