Build a PokeBonk run without copying an outdated tier list
Start with the partner and opening move shown by the live client, then solve one run problem at a time. Strengthen moves that are already contributing, preserve two eligible level-8 moves only when you have a Fusion plan, and use the Lab after the run to address a repeatable bottleneck.
On this page
Define the job before choosing cards
A useful build answers a specific question: clear nearby enemies, reach distant targets, survive contact, or control a boss phase. Name the current failure signal before comparing damage numbers.
- Crowds close in: value space, area coverage or reliable control.
- Bosses outlast you: inspect sustained single-target contribution and survivability.
- A move rarely connects: fix range, aim or positioning before stacking its damage.
Build around offers you actually receive
Level-up offers are not a guaranteed script. Add a move when it fills a missing function; upgrade one when it already works. Vitamins and items support the whole run but are separate from move slots.
- Read the exact current card.
- Keep partner, mode and difficulty stable when testing one change.
- Do not import effects from the main-series Pokémon games.
Plan a Fusion without wasting Bill's Machine
A Fusion requires two eligible moves at level 8 and one available Bill's Machine. The result replaces the first input and frees the second slot. Preview its own type, class and inherited upgrades before confirming.
- Weather, buff and already-fused moves are ineligible.
- Both input upgrade histories are combined.
- The Fusion can then advance from ★1 to ★5.
Use items and Lab upgrades as support
Choose items and permanent upgrades for a diagnosed constraint, not because a copied build lists them. The current client also includes Awakening, whose per-level effect adds sleep chance on hit and a chance that a sleeping target stays asleep when hit.
- Need another move slot: inspect 4th move, not Fourth option.
- Need more choices: compare Fourth option, Refresh, Skip and Banish by their live text.
- Need sleep utility: confirm Awakening and the current move interaction before committing.
Run a fair build test
Repeat the same partner, region, mode and difficulty. Record time or zone reached, the main damage or survival failure, and whether the intended move actually contributed. A single lucky run is not a universal best build.