Quick answer
Combat Deviations use two active abilities after synchronization: a Battle Skill and an Ultimate. The Ultimate consumes Deviation Power after it reaches the required level. You can switch a deployed Deviation from the gear backpack, but switching clears Deviation Power and resets the Battle Skill cooldown. Rules can differ by scenario, so check the active scenario before treating any setup as universal.
What this guide applies to
This page summarizes the official Combat Deviation system update published in December 2025. It explains the system rules described in that announcement, not current damage rankings, capture rates, or a best-Deviation tier list. Those can change through balance patches and scenario-specific restrictions.
How Combat Deviations work
The official Combat Deviation update introduced two active abilities after synchronization: a Battle Skill and an Ultimate. Ultimates consume Deviation Power when it reaches the required level.
Battle Skill
The Battle Skill is one of the two active abilities available after synchronization. Its exact effect, cooldown, and behavior depend on the selected Deviation and the active scenario. Use the in-game tooltip as the current authority for numerical values.
Ultimate and Deviation Power
The Ultimate requires Deviation Power at the required level. This makes Deviation Power part of the decision to deploy, swap, or hold a Combat Deviation during an encounter. The official announcement does not make a universal DPS claim, so this guide does not rank Ultimates by damage.
Switching and scenario limits
Players can switch deployed Deviations from the gear backpack after synchronization. Switching clears Deviation Power and resets the Battle Skill cooldown. The official announcement also notes that skills can differ by scenario and that the system does not apply to Deviation: Survive, Capture, Preserve.
Before choosing a Combat Deviation
- Confirm that your active scenario supports the relevant Combat Deviation skill rules.
- Read the live tooltip for the Battle Skill, Ultimate, cooldown, and conditions.
- Consider the cost of switching: Deviation Power is cleared and the Battle Skill cooldown resets.
- Treat third-party DPS lists as references until they identify the same patch and scenario you are playing.
Keep this page version-aware
Combat Deviation balance is actively adjusted. Confirm the live in-game tooltip before relying on an old damage number or cooldown.
FAQ
What abilities do Combat Deviations have after synchronization?
The official Combat Deviation update describes a Battle Skill and an Ultimate. The Ultimate consumes Deviation Power once the required level is reached.
Can I change my deployed Combat Deviation?
Yes. The official announcement says players can switch a deployed Deviation from the gear backpack after synchronization. Switching clears Deviation Power and resets the Battle Skill cooldown.
Do Combat Deviation skills work in every scenario?
No. The official announcement says skills can differ by scenario and that the system does not apply to Deviation: Survive, Capture, Preserve.
Official developer blog: