Pokémon Masters EX is a free-to-play mobile role-playing game developed by DeNA in collaboration with The Pokémon Company. Launched in August 2019, the game transports players to the artificial island of Pasio, where they team up with legendary Trainers from across the Pokémon franchise to battle in 3-on-3 team matches. With strategic gameplay, engaging storylines, and regular content updates, Pokémon Masters EX offers a fresh take on the Pokémon universe.
Setting and Gameplay Overview
The game takes place on Pasio, a man-made island created specifically for sync pair battles. A sync pair is a duo made up of a Trainer and their partner Pokémon. Players collect sync pairs and assemble teams to compete in the Pokémon Masters League, with the goal of becoming the league champion.
The core gameplay revolves around real-time battles where three sync pairs face off against another team of three. Each pair has unique moves and passive skills. Some are focused on offense, while others specialize in support, debuffs, or setting field conditions. Strategy, synergy, and timing are essential to winning battles.
Sync Pair Roles
Sync pairs are divided into several roles that determine their battle style:
- Strike: Focused on damage output.
- Support: Heals teammates and provides stat boosts.
- Tech: Specializes in debuffs and status conditions.
- Sprint: Focuses on quick attacks and speed-based effects.
- Field: Manipulates terrain and weather to influence the entire field.
Battle Mechanics
Combat in Pokémon Masters EX features a real-time move gauge that fills over time. Players can use it to execute moves from their sync pairs. Trainers also have special abilities called Trainer Moves that can heal allies, raise stats, or affect battle conditions. When a sync pair performs enough actions, they can unleash a powerful Sync Move, often turning the tide of battle.
Story and Events
In addition to the main storyline, Pokémon Masters EX features a wide variety of limited-time content, including:
- Legendary Events: Special stories that reward players with rare sync pairs.
- Champion Stadium: A challenging mode where players battle famous regional Champions and Elite Four members.
- Battle Villa: A multi-stage gauntlet requiring strategic use of sync pairs across multiple battles.
- Story Events and Seasonal Events: Rotating content that expands the game’s narrative and offers exclusive rewards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Pokémon Masters EX free to play?
Yes. The game is free to download and play, with optional in-app purchases. Players can use in-game currency called gems to scout new sync pairs or buy items.
Is an internet connection required to play?
Yes. Pokémon Masters EX is an online game and requires a stable internet connection to access its features and save progress.
What devices support Pokémon Masters EX?
The game is available on both iOS and Android. It requires iOS 12.0 or higher and Android 7.0 or higher. Devices should have at least 2GB of RAM for optimal performance.
What languages are supported?
The game supports English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, and Traditional Chinese.
Is the game available in all countries?
No. As of November 27, 2024, Pokémon Masters EX has officially ended service in Vietnam. It remains available in most other regions worldwide.
Can I play with friends?
Yes. The game features co-op battles where players can team up with others online to tackle special events and boss battles.
How to Evolve Pokémon in Pokémon Masters EX
In Pokémon Masters EX, evolving Pokémon is a key part of strengthening your sync pairs. Here’s how you can evolve your Pokémon in the game:
1. Unlock Evolutionary Items
To evolve certain Pokémon in Pokémon Masters EX, you’ll need specific evolutionary items. These items are typically obtained through gameplay, special events, or rewards. You can find them in the Item Exchange, Shop, or as part of event rewards. Some Pokémon evolve using special items that can be found in the game’s evolution system or as part of specific evolution quests.
2. Check if the Pokémon Can Evolve
Not all Pokémon in Pokémon Masters EX can evolve. Only certain Pokémon have evolution forms that are available in the game. To check if a Pokémon can evolve, go to your Pokémon Collection and look for the Evolution button next to eligible Pokémon.
3. Evolution Requirements
Each Pokémon has specific evolution requirements that must be met. These can include:
- Pokémon Level: Many evolutions require a certain level for the Pokémon to evolve.
- Evolutionary Items: As mentioned earlier, some Pokémon need special evolution items (such as Evolution Shards, Mega Stones, or other materials) to evolve.
- Sync Level: For some Pokémon, the sync level must be raised to a certain point before they can evolve. This is part of the sync pair upgrade system.
4. Evolution Process
To evolve your Pokémon:
- Go to the Pokémon Center or Pokémon Collection.
- Select the Pokémon that can evolve.
- Check if you have all the necessary items and meet the evolution conditions.
- Tap the Evolve button, and the Pokémon will evolve into its next form.
5. Mega Evolutions (for certain Pokémon)
Some Pokémon can Mega Evolve in Pokémon Masters EX. These special evolutions are unlocked during certain events or can be part of the Pokémon’s base form evolution. When you unlock Mega Evolution, you’ll receive the appropriate Mega Stones and other evolution materials, allowing your Pokémon to temporarily evolve into a much stronger form during battle.
6. Sync Pair Evolution
In Pokémon Masters EX, evolving a Pokémon often increases the power of the sync pair. This can include changes in stats, moves, and abilities that enhance your performance in battle. Some evolutions even grant access to new Sync Moves or change the type of the sync pair’s attacks.
Pokémon Masters EX Tier List for 2025
In Pokémon Masters EX, building an effective team requires selecting the right sync pairs based on their roles and performance. The tier list for 2025 provides a comprehensive look at which sync pairs are currently the most effective in various gameplay modes, including battles and events.
Top Tier (S+):
At the top of the list are Ash & Pikachu, Sygna Suit Serena & Zygarde (Complete Form), and Steven & Deoxys (Attack Form). These sync pairs are renowned for their immense power and versatility in combat. Ash & Pikachu, for example, are widely regarded as one of the best damage dealers in the game due to their high offense and ability to support their team in critical moments. Other top-tier sync pairs such as Lucas & Dialga and Sygna Suit Lusamine & Necrozma (Ultra Form) stand out for their incredible abilities, making them indispensable in high-level battles. These pairs excel in both dealing damage and providing vital team boosts, making them essential picks for serious players.
Mid-Tier (A):
Sync pairs in the A Tier are still powerful but require more strategic use. Sygna Suit Red & Mega Charizard X and Sygna Suit Erika & Leafeon are excellent choices for players looking to focus on strong offensive tactics. These pairs are typically more specialized, excelling in specific conditions like weather or status effects. While they may not be as universally dominant as the top-tier sync pairs, they still perform well when used correctly, particularly when complemented by the right support and tech units. Sygna Suit Giovanni & Nidoking and Sygna Suit Ethan & Lugia also fall into this category, providing players with reliable options for a balanced team composition.
Lower Tier (B):
Sync pairs in the B Tier are still useful, but they may not reach their full potential in high-level content. Emmet & Escavalier and Leon & Eternatus are examples of pairs that, while solid in battle, often lack the versatility needed for more challenging scenarios. These pairs may require specific setups or additional support from higher-tier sync pairs to truly shine. Likewise, Clavell & Quaquaval and N & Zoroark perform well in some situations but struggle to keep up with the more powerful pairs when tackling tough end-game content or raids.
Tech and Support Sync Pairs:
The Tech Tier focuses on sync pairs that provide valuable support or utility rather than just raw damage. Sygna Suit Morty & Ho-Oh and Sygna Suit Cynthia (Aura) & Mega Lucario are considered among the best tech units, offering impressive support abilities like healing, stat boosts, and debuffing enemies. These pairs are crucial in many team compositions because they ensure the longevity and efficiency of battles. Dawn & Cresselia, for example, excels at providing status healing and teamwide defense boosts, making them a top pick for challenging boss fights. On the other hand, Red & Snorlax provides both tanking and support capabilities, making them an excellent choice for defensive strategies.
Overall Summary:
The tier list reflects the evolving balance of the game, where Ash & Pikachu, Sygna Suit Serena & Zygarde, and other top-tier pairs are often the best performers in any scenario. However, the A Tier sync pairs, such as Sygna Suit Red & Mega Charizard X and Sygna Suit Blue & Mega Blastoise, still offer incredible utility, especially when paired with the right support units. Meanwhile, the B Tier sync pairs are less flexible in high-difficulty content, but they can still serve as reliable options for players who prefer experimenting with different team strategies or for those still building their sync pair collection.
While tier rankings can help guide your choices, it’s important to remember that player preferences and specific strategies play a significant role in determining the success of any team. Regular updates and events can also shift the effectiveness of certain sync pairs, so it’s a good idea to stay informed by checking the latest tier lists and updates from the community and official sources.
How to Recover Your Pokémon Masters EX Account
If you need to recover your Pokémon Masters EX account, follow the steps below:
1. Reinstall the Game
If you’ve uninstalled the game or need to reinstall it, go ahead and download it again from your device’s app store (Google Play or the App Store).
2. Launch the Game
Once the game is installed, open it. On the title screen, you will be prompted to either start a new game or restore your old account.
3. Link Your Account
- If you had linked your account to a Nintendo Account, Google Play, or Apple ID, simply log in with the same account you used for your original save.
- Look for the Link Account or Restore Data option on the main screen to restore your saved data.
4. Check for Your Data
After linking your account, your previous game progress should automatically restore. This includes your sync pairs, items, and other game data.
5. Contact Customer Support (if needed)
If your account does not restore automatically or you encounter any issues, reach out to the Pokémon Masters EX customer support team:
- Email: [email protected]
- Make sure to provide your Support ID, which you can find in the Settings menu under Support. This helps the support team verify your account and assist with recovery.
6. Account Recovery After Device Change
If you’ve changed devices and didn’t link your account, or if you’re facing issues with a new device, customer support can help recover your account as long as it was previously linked to a platform.
Important Notes:
- Linked Accounts: Linking your game to a Nintendo Account, Google Play, or Apple ID ensures that your progress is saved and can be restored on any device.
- Account Recovery Limitations: If your account was not linked to any platform, recovery may not be possible. It’s always best to link your account to avoid data loss.
