What Is the Rule for Sheer Force?

I’ve noticed that the general trend for Sheer Force is that it only boosts moves with positive side effects and removes these side effects- for example, Earth Power is boosted and its chance to drop Special Defense is removed, while Superpower is not boosted and the drop in Attack and Defense after use remains. However, Sheer Force negates Life Orb recoil when using a move that is boosted by Sheer Force, which is a negative side effect. So what is the rule? I think it might have something to do with when the side effect happens during a turn, but I’m not sure.

I’m pretty sure there is also a rule for items which might explain the Life Orb. Include this if applicable.

Pleaselog inorregisterto add a comment.

What a great question, Mega-Roserade! Since no one has answered yet, I, a total stranger whom you probably know nothing about, will enlighten you on the mechanics of the wonderful ability who goes by the name of Sheer Force!

Effects that come along with attacking moves can be put into categories:

Sheer Force only boosts moves with secondary effects and removes said effects- it will not boost moves with only primary effects, and will not remove said effects if boosting a move for another reason. For example, Flare Blitz inflicts recoil and has a chance to burn. It will have a 30% power increase and no chance to burn from Sheer Force, but the recoil stays as it is a primary effect.

Thisis a list of all moves which have a secondary effect. All of these moves will be boosted by Sheer Force and the effects listed will be negated.

Items and abilities will only be affected if a move has been used which is boosted by Sheer Force. It will no longer trigger item or ability effects that activate after attacking. Effects that take place before attacking, however, remain. This explains why the power increase from a Life Orb remains but the recoil is negated when using a move boosted by Sheer Force. Red Card, Eject Button, and Color Change are also affected.