For most species, gender does not directly change base stats or normal battle performance. It can matter for breeding, gender-specific evolutions, a small number of moves and Abilities, visual differences, and interactions with effects that target gender. Some species are always one gender, genderless, or have unusual gender ratios. When breeding, the female parent often determines the species of the Egg, with exceptions involving Ditto and special rules. If a guide says gender matters, check whether it refers to evolution, breeding, or a specific move rather than assuming it affects all battles.
