List of VGC 17 Cores: Part 2
The following are a list of VGC 17 cores written by various people from the Pokemon Forever Forums to help anyone in need of guidance or basically team building efforts. Most of the cores were done by myself, yet will credit to certain cores done by certain people.
- Pokémon featured: Tapu Fini + Kartana + Arcanine
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Bulky Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Tapu Fini @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 148 Def / 52 SpA / 4 SpD / 60 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Muddy Water / Scald
- Moonblast
- Calm Mind
- Protect
or
Tapu Fini @ Choice Specs
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 20 Def / 164 SpA / 44 SpD / 28 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Muddy Water
- Dazzling Gleam
- Moonblast
- Scald
__________
Kartana @ Focus Sash / Grassium Z / Fightinium Z
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 148 Atk / 4 Def / 100 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Leaf Blade
- Smart Strike
- Sacred Sword
- Protect
or
Kartana @ Assault Vest
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 116 HP / 4 Atk / 4 Def / 132 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Leaf Blade
- Smart Strike
- Sacred Sword
- Night Slash
_____________
Arcanine @ Sitrus Berry
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 4 Def / 4 SpA / 12 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Flamethrower / Burn Out / Overheat
- Will-O-Wisp
- Snarl
- Protect
or
Arcanine @ Firium Z
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 76 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def / 12 SpD / 164 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Flare Blitz
- Wild Charge
- Extreme Speed
- Protect
[/spoiler]
At this time making this post, the core between Tapu Fini, Kartana, and Arcanine has picked up as arguably one of the most popular in the early VGC 17 format thanks to its fantastic synergy both defensive and offensive standpoint. Right after the London Intercontinental Championships, there was a rise in defensive oriented teams centered around Celesteela, Gastrodon, Tapu Bulu, and other Pokemon which relied on passive damage such as Will-O-Wisp, Toxic, etc to wear down the opposition over time. Tapu Fini wasn't explored as much at this time, given it was the "least" used Tapu out of the the four due to the "lack" of beneficial to one of it STABs. Eventually, there was a turn to use Tapu Fini's Water/Fairy-typing for offensive purpose with the Specs set and was popularize by Japanese Battle Spot players and later Sejun Park after a recent tour victory. Tapu Fini can hit rather hard thanks to its Water- and Fairy-type attacks such as Scald, Muddy Water, Dazzling Gleam, and Moonblast and still has an impressive bulk of 115 Defense and 130 Special Defense to cover for itself. To top it off, Misty Terrain can effectively "block" all status ailments on the field, suppressing opposing Wisp, Thunder Wave, Freeze chance, and Sleep.
Kartana is a rather peculiar Grass/Steel-type Pokemon with paper-thin special defense, yet a whooping 109 speed and 181 attack stat, already one point higher than that of Primal Groudon. Despite having the low special defense, Kartana high attack and speed stat paired with its Grass/Steel-typing makes it capable of being one of Tapu Fini's partners to combat the opposing Tapus. Thanks to its typing, Kartana is able to deal with opposing Poison-type as they can't such it and can tank one Thunderbolt for Tapu Fini, though AV sets have been more common as of late to take better special hits. The main purpose of using Kartana in this core is to hack-and-slash against opposing Water-, Rock-, Fairy-, Ground-, and Ice-types which some directly threaten Arcanine. In terms of movepool, Kartana is rather limited to Leaf Blade and Smart Strike for STABS, then Scared Sword and Night Slash for coverage, and finally Sword Dance for setup potential. Speaking of setup, if Kartana manages to pickup an OHKO, Beast Boost will increase its attack stat, further making it a threat.
Last we have the Fire Doge Arcanine, one of the most commonly used Fire-type in the format, likely due to the exclusion of many. Regardless, Arcanine completes this core by giving its Fire-typing to aid in both Kartana and Tapu Fini against Fairy- and Steel-type Pokemon while handle opposing Grass-, Ice-, and Bug-types which threatens them. Some Arcanine sets are build defensively to take advantage of the Intimidate pressure and using support moves such as Will-O-Wisp and Snarl to suppress the opponents' damage output. Both Tapu Fini and Kartana appreciate any stat drops against the opponents as it allows them to take opposing hits better and retaliate with their strong STAB options. Other Arcanine sets utilize their physical movepool with Flare Blitz, Wild Charge, Close Combat, and Extreme Speed to pick off certain Pokemon the defensive sets won't have. Given its Intimidate and above average defensive stats, Arcanine can make for a great pivot switch for Tapu Fini or Kartana whenever they need protection.
Tapu Fini + Kartana + Arcanine (Also Known as "AFK")
- Pokémon featured: Tapu Fini + Kartana + Arcanine
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Bulky Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Tapu Fini @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 148 Def / 52 SpA / 4 SpD / 60 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Muddy Water / Scald
- Moonblast
- Calm Mind
- Protect
or
Tapu Fini @ Choice Specs
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 20 Def / 164 SpA / 44 SpD / 28 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Muddy Water
- Dazzling Gleam
- Moonblast
- Scald
__________
Kartana @ Focus Sash / Grassium Z / Fightinium Z
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 148 Atk / 4 Def / 100 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Leaf Blade
- Smart Strike
- Sacred Sword
- Protect
or
Kartana @ Assault Vest
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 116 HP / 4 Atk / 4 Def / 132 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Leaf Blade
- Smart Strike
- Sacred Sword
- Night Slash
_____________
Arcanine @ Sitrus Berry
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 4 Def / 4 SpA / 12 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Flamethrower / Burn Out / Overheat
- Will-O-Wisp
- Snarl
- Protect
or
Arcanine @ Firium Z
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 76 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def / 12 SpD / 164 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Flare Blitz
- Wild Charge
- Extreme Speed
- Protect
[/spoiler]
At this time making this post, the core between Tapu Fini, Kartana, and Arcanine has picked up as arguably one of the most popular in the early VGC 17 format thanks to its fantastic synergy both defensive and offensive standpoint. Right after the London Intercontinental Championships, there was a rise in defensive oriented teams centered around Celesteela, Gastrodon, Tapu Bulu, and other Pokemon which relied on passive damage such as Will-O-Wisp, Toxic, etc to wear down the opposition over time. Tapu Fini wasn't explored as much at this time, given it was the "least" used Tapu out of the the four due to the "lack" of beneficial to one of it STABs. Eventually, there was a turn to use Tapu Fini's Water/Fairy-typing for offensive purpose with the Specs set and was popularize by Japanese Battle Spot players and later Sejun Park after a recent tour victory. Tapu Fini can hit rather hard thanks to its Water- and Fairy-type attacks such as Scald, Muddy Water, Dazzling Gleam, and Moonblast and still has an impressive bulk of 115 Defense and 130 Special Defense to cover for itself. To top it off, Misty Terrain can effectively "block" all status ailments on the field, suppressing opposing Wisp, Thunder Wave, Freeze chance, and Sleep.
Kartana is a rather peculiar Grass/Steel-type Pokemon with paper-thin special defense, yet a whooping 109 speed and 181 attack stat, already one point higher than that of Primal Groudon. Despite having the low special defense, Kartana high attack and speed stat paired with its Grass/Steel-typing makes it capable of being one of Tapu Fini's partners to combat the opposing Tapus. Thanks to its typing, Kartana is able to deal with opposing Poison-type as they can't such it and can tank one Thunderbolt for Tapu Fini, though AV sets have been more common as of late to take better special hits. The main purpose of using Kartana in this core is to hack-and-slash against opposing Water-, Rock-, Fairy-, Ground-, and Ice-types which some directly threaten Arcanine. In terms of movepool, Kartana is rather limited to Leaf Blade and Smart Strike for STABS, then Scared Sword and Night Slash for coverage, and finally Sword Dance for setup potential. Speaking of setup, if Kartana manages to pickup an OHKO, Beast Boost will increase its attack stat, further making it a threat.
Last we have the Fire Doge Arcanine, one of the most commonly used Fire-type in the format, likely due to the exclusion of many. Regardless, Arcanine completes this core by giving its Fire-typing to aid in both Kartana and Tapu Fini against Fairy- and Steel-type Pokemon while handle opposing Grass-, Ice-, and Bug-types which threatens them. Some Arcanine sets are build defensively to take advantage of the Intimidate pressure and using support moves such as Will-O-Wisp and Snarl to suppress the opponents' damage output. Both Tapu Fini and Kartana appreciate any stat drops against the opponents as it allows them to take opposing hits better and retaliate with their strong STAB options. Other Arcanine sets utilize their physical movepool with Flare Blitz, Wild Charge, Close Combat, and Extreme Speed to pick off certain Pokemon the defensive sets won't have. Given its Intimidate and above average defensive stats, Arcanine can make for a great pivot switch for Tapu Fini or Kartana whenever they need protection.
Mimikyu + Magnezone + Drampa
- Pokémon featured: Mimikyu + Magnezone + Drampa
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Trick Room Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Mimikyu @ Ghostium Z
Ability: Disguise
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
IVs: 0 Spe
- Shadow Claw
- Play Rough
- Taunt
- Trick Room
_______
Magnezone @ Choice Specs
Ability: Magnet Pull
Level: 50
EVs: 248 HP / 252 SpA / 8 SpD
Modest Nature
IVs: 1 Atk / 30 SpA / 30 SpD
- Thunderbolt
- Flash Cannon
- Hidden Power [Ground]
- Volt Switch
________
Drampa @ Life Orb
Ability: Sap Sipper / Berserk / Cloud Nine
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 12 Def / 252 SpA
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Draco Meteor / Hyper Voice
- Energy Ball
- Fire Blast
- Protect
[/spoiler]
This is the infamous Trick Room core popularized KomVGC, who was able to this core to a regional victory at San Jose. In all, the core is basically a Steel-Dragon-Fairy between Mimikyu, Magnezone, and Drampa, who all three benefit from each others characteristics. Starting with Mimikyu, this is a Ghost/Fairy-type Pokemon who's able to beat opposing Psychic-, Ghost-, Dragon-types, etc, and setup Trick Room for the other two Pokemon. Thanks to the Disguise ability, Mimikyu essentially has a pseudo-Substitute in that Pokemon have to double target the Ghost/Fairy down in other to prevent Trick Room. Even so, Mimikyu is paired with the Ghostium Z to nuke opposing Pokemon such as Tapu Lele. Taunt is listed here to prevent any opposing anti-TR strategies such as Roar, "reverse" TR, setup, or other Taunt users. Keep in mind Fighting-type Pokemon who threaten Drampa and Magnezone like Pheromosa and Buzzwole can't really harm Mimikyu thanks to its Disguise ability and defensive great typing.
Once Trick Room is setup, the other two Pokemon can be used quite effectively. Magnezone is often seen capable of dealing with opposing Fairy-type like the Tapus and even trapping Steel-types such as Celesteela. Choice Specs allows Magnezone to pick of many kills given it rather high base power attacks like Thunderbolt / Flash Cannon, and its base 130 Special Attack. Some tech options such as Volt Switch is used for pivot switching and HP Ground for opposing Electric-, Steel-, and Fire-types. Drampa on the other hand is a strong special Dragon-/Normal type with a strong abilities to such as Sap Sipper, Berserk, and Cloud Nine to abuse. In this set, Cloud Nine is used to remove all weather effects in play, effectively making weather-based teams near useless. In terms of coverage, Drampa has a surprising array of special attacks to utilize with its base 135 special attack stat such as the elemental beams, Draco Meteor, Energy Ball, Hyper Voice, and Shadow Ball.
- Pokémon featured: Mimikyu + Magnezone + Drampa
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Trick Room Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Mimikyu @ Ghostium Z
Ability: Disguise
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
IVs: 0 Spe
- Shadow Claw
- Play Rough
- Taunt
- Trick Room
_______
Magnezone @ Choice Specs
Ability: Magnet Pull
Level: 50
EVs: 248 HP / 252 SpA / 8 SpD
Modest Nature
IVs: 1 Atk / 30 SpA / 30 SpD
- Thunderbolt
- Flash Cannon
- Hidden Power [Ground]
- Volt Switch
________
Drampa @ Life Orb
Ability: Sap Sipper / Berserk / Cloud Nine
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 12 Def / 252 SpA
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Draco Meteor / Hyper Voice
- Energy Ball
- Fire Blast
- Protect
[/spoiler]
This is the infamous Trick Room core popularized KomVGC, who was able to this core to a regional victory at San Jose. In all, the core is basically a Steel-Dragon-Fairy between Mimikyu, Magnezone, and Drampa, who all three benefit from each others characteristics. Starting with Mimikyu, this is a Ghost/Fairy-type Pokemon who's able to beat opposing Psychic-, Ghost-, Dragon-types, etc, and setup Trick Room for the other two Pokemon. Thanks to the Disguise ability, Mimikyu essentially has a pseudo-Substitute in that Pokemon have to double target the Ghost/Fairy down in other to prevent Trick Room. Even so, Mimikyu is paired with the Ghostium Z to nuke opposing Pokemon such as Tapu Lele. Taunt is listed here to prevent any opposing anti-TR strategies such as Roar, "reverse" TR, setup, or other Taunt users. Keep in mind Fighting-type Pokemon who threaten Drampa and Magnezone like Pheromosa and Buzzwole can't really harm Mimikyu thanks to its Disguise ability and defensive great typing.
Once Trick Room is setup, the other two Pokemon can be used quite effectively. Magnezone is often seen capable of dealing with opposing Fairy-type like the Tapus and even trapping Steel-types such as Celesteela. Choice Specs allows Magnezone to pick of many kills given it rather high base power attacks like Thunderbolt / Flash Cannon, and its base 130 Special Attack. Some tech options such as Volt Switch is used for pivot switching and HP Ground for opposing Electric-, Steel-, and Fire-types. Drampa on the other hand is a strong special Dragon-/Normal type with a strong abilities to such as Sap Sipper, Berserk, and Cloud Nine to abuse. In this set, Cloud Nine is used to remove all weather effects in play, effectively making weather-based teams near useless. In terms of coverage, Drampa has a surprising array of special attacks to utilize with its base 135 special attack stat such as the elemental beams, Draco Meteor, Energy Ball, Hyper Voice, and Shadow Ball.
Porygon2 + Araquanid + Alolan Marowak
- Pokémon featured: Porygon2 + Araquanid / Alolan Marowak
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Trick Room Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Porygon2 @ Eviolite
Ability: Download
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 92 Def / 36 SpA / 132 SpD / 4 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk / 0 Spe
- Tri Attack / Shadow Ball / Thunderbolt / Discharge
- Ice Beam
- Trick Room
- Recover
Araquanid @ Waterium Z
Ability: Water Bubble
EVs: 244 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def / 4 SpD / 4 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Liquidation
- Wide Guard
- Toxic / Substitute / Lunge / Leech Life
- Protect
Marowak-Alola @ Thick Club
Ability: Lightning Rod
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 76 Atk / 84 Def / 92 SpD / 4 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Flare Blitz
- Shadow Bone
- Bonemerang / Substitute / Perish Song
- Protect
[/spoiler]
The one of the most common Trick Room pairs in the VGC format is the dual between Porygon2 and either Aranquanid and/or Alolan Marowak. To start, Porygon2 has received tremendous usage as the premier Trick Room setter in the VGC scene thanks to its improved Eviolite defense and wide array of coverage options such as Tri Attack, Shadow Ball, Ice Beam, Thunderbolt, Discharge, etc. There are two main goal of any TR Porygon2: setup Trick Room for its ally and to stick around as long as possible thanks to Recover to reset Trick Room again. Even with Porygon2 overall great bulk, its still need a partner who's able to threaten most of the format with their immeasurable damage potential. Both Araquanid and Alolan Marowak stick out given strong they hit with thanks to their respective abilities/items. With Aranquanid's case, Water Bubble doubles the power of Liquidation and paired with Waterium Z can actually punch some major holes against most teams. Alolan Marowak has the luxury of abusing its Thick Club to double its attack stat which can allow it to hit ridiculous hard with STAB Flare Blitz and Shadow Bone. Both Araquanid and Alolan Marowak can be used to to take resisted / immune Fighting-type hits for Porygon2 who doesn't appreciate such attacks. Most of the times, teams tend to carry Porygon2 + either Araquanid or Alolan Marowak though don't be surprised if both TR sweepers are used since Marowak's Lightning Rod Ability can redirect harmful Electric-type damage from Araquanid. The water spider can take a resisted Ground-type attack like Earthquake easily, or even use Wide Guard to block Rock Slide or Earthquake.
- Pokémon featured: Porygon2 + Araquanid / Alolan Marowak
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Trick Room Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Porygon2 @ Eviolite
Ability: Download
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 92 Def / 36 SpA / 132 SpD / 4 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk / 0 Spe
- Tri Attack / Shadow Ball / Thunderbolt / Discharge
- Ice Beam
- Trick Room
- Recover
Araquanid @ Waterium Z
Ability: Water Bubble
EVs: 244 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def / 4 SpD / 4 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Liquidation
- Wide Guard
- Toxic / Substitute / Lunge / Leech Life
- Protect
Marowak-Alola @ Thick Club
Ability: Lightning Rod
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 76 Atk / 84 Def / 92 SpD / 4 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Flare Blitz
- Shadow Bone
- Bonemerang / Substitute / Perish Song
- Protect
[/spoiler]
The one of the most common Trick Room pairs in the VGC format is the dual between Porygon2 and either Aranquanid and/or Alolan Marowak. To start, Porygon2 has received tremendous usage as the premier Trick Room setter in the VGC scene thanks to its improved Eviolite defense and wide array of coverage options such as Tri Attack, Shadow Ball, Ice Beam, Thunderbolt, Discharge, etc. There are two main goal of any TR Porygon2: setup Trick Room for its ally and to stick around as long as possible thanks to Recover to reset Trick Room again. Even with Porygon2 overall great bulk, its still need a partner who's able to threaten most of the format with their immeasurable damage potential. Both Araquanid and Alolan Marowak stick out given strong they hit with thanks to their respective abilities/items. With Aranquanid's case, Water Bubble doubles the power of Liquidation and paired with Waterium Z can actually punch some major holes against most teams. Alolan Marowak has the luxury of abusing its Thick Club to double its attack stat which can allow it to hit ridiculous hard with STAB Flare Blitz and Shadow Bone. Both Araquanid and Alolan Marowak can be used to to take resisted / immune Fighting-type hits for Porygon2 who doesn't appreciate such attacks. Most of the times, teams tend to carry Porygon2 + either Araquanid or Alolan Marowak though don't be surprised if both TR sweepers are used since Marowak's Lightning Rod Ability can redirect harmful Electric-type damage from Araquanid. The water spider can take a resisted Ground-type attack like Earthquake easily, or even use Wide Guard to block Rock Slide or Earthquake.
Tapu Lele + Metagross
- Pokémon featured: Tapu Lele + Metagross
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Tapu Lele @ Psychium Z / Life Orb
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Protect
Tapu Lele @ Choice Specs
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 116 Def / 76 SpA / 4 SpD / 60 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Thunderbolt
Tapu Lele @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Thunderbolt
____________________________
Metagross @ Choice Band
Ability: Clear Body
Level: 50
EVs: 116 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def / 4 SpD / 132 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Meteor Mash
- Zen Headbutt
- Earthquake
- Bullet Punch
Metagross @ Assault Vest
Ability: Clear Body
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 116 Atk / 36 Def / 92 SpD / 12 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Meteor Mash
- Zen Headbutt
- Earthquake
- Bullet Punch
Metagross @ Weakness Policy
Ability: Clear Body
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 28 Atk / 20 Def / 116 SpD / 92 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Meteor Mash
- Zen Headbutt
- Bullet Punch
- Protect
[/spoiler]
With the introduction to terrain-based Pokemon such as the Tapus, new offensive cores have become possible in light of the 50% boost in a Pokemon's respective type in due part of the terrain. In this case, Tapu Lele's Psychic Terrain allows to breath new life into the classic Steel/Psychic-type Pokemon Metagross as it boosts the power of both it and Lele's Psychic-type attacks by 50%. Aside the increase damage output, both Tapu Lele and Metagross share a strong synergy offensive between each other. Starting with Tapu Lele, it benefits having Metagross around to take opposing Steel- and Poison-type attacks for little to no damage to be used a switch-in even. Metagross is one of the premier part Steel-type Pokemon who can actually take on some of the Fairy-types, or notably the Tapus who are in a constant fight to maintain their respective terrains. Tapu Lele can deal with opposing Dark-types and most Dragon-type Pokemon who often carry STAB or coverage options for Metagross specifically STAB Dark- and Fire-type attacks. Keep in mind, the main goal of Tapu Lele + Metagross is to abuse the Psychic Terrain boost to their Psychic-type STABs and overwhelm the team with boosted hits. Both Tapu Lele and Metagross have relatively high attacking base attack / special attack for their respective stats to abuse this along with strong item choices such as Life Orb, Choice Specs, Choice Band, or even the Psychium Z.
- Pokémon featured: Tapu Lele + Metagross
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Tapu Lele @ Psychium Z / Life Orb
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Protect
Tapu Lele @ Choice Specs
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 116 Def / 76 SpA / 4 SpD / 60 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Thunderbolt
Tapu Lele @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Thunderbolt
____________________________
Metagross @ Choice Band
Ability: Clear Body
Level: 50
EVs: 116 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def / 4 SpD / 132 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Meteor Mash
- Zen Headbutt
- Earthquake
- Bullet Punch
Metagross @ Assault Vest
Ability: Clear Body
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 116 Atk / 36 Def / 92 SpD / 12 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Meteor Mash
- Zen Headbutt
- Earthquake
- Bullet Punch
Metagross @ Weakness Policy
Ability: Clear Body
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 28 Atk / 20 Def / 116 SpD / 92 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Meteor Mash
- Zen Headbutt
- Bullet Punch
- Protect
[/spoiler]
With the introduction to terrain-based Pokemon such as the Tapus, new offensive cores have become possible in light of the 50% boost in a Pokemon's respective type in due part of the terrain. In this case, Tapu Lele's Psychic Terrain allows to breath new life into the classic Steel/Psychic-type Pokemon Metagross as it boosts the power of both it and Lele's Psychic-type attacks by 50%. Aside the increase damage output, both Tapu Lele and Metagross share a strong synergy offensive between each other. Starting with Tapu Lele, it benefits having Metagross around to take opposing Steel- and Poison-type attacks for little to no damage to be used a switch-in even. Metagross is one of the premier part Steel-type Pokemon who can actually take on some of the Fairy-types, or notably the Tapus who are in a constant fight to maintain their respective terrains. Tapu Lele can deal with opposing Dark-types and most Dragon-type Pokemon who often carry STAB or coverage options for Metagross specifically STAB Dark- and Fire-type attacks. Keep in mind, the main goal of Tapu Lele + Metagross is to abuse the Psychic Terrain boost to their Psychic-type STABs and overwhelm the team with boosted hits. Both Tapu Lele and Metagross have relatively high attacking base attack / special attack for their respective stats to abuse this along with strong item choices such as Life Orb, Choice Specs, Choice Band, or even the Psychium Z.
Alolan Raichu + Tapu Koko + Tapu Lele
- Pokémon featured: Alolan Raichu + Tapu Koko + Tapu Lele
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Raichu-Alola @ Focus Sash
Ability: Surge Surfer
Level: 50
EVs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Fake Out
- Thunderbolt
- Psychic
- Encore
Raichu-Alola @ Aloraichium Z / Psychium Z
Ability: Surge Surfer
Level: 50
EVs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Fake Out
- Thunderbolt
- Psychic
- Encore
Tapu Koko @ Life Orb / Electrium Z / Fairium Z / Focus Sash
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 28 HP / 4 Def / 204 SpA / 28 SpD / 244 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam / Hidden Power Ice
- Discharge / Taunt
- Protect
Tapu Koko @ Assault Vest
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 4 Def / 4 SpA / 164 SpD / 100 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Thunderbolt
- Volt Switch
- Dazzling Gleam
- Nature's Madness
Tapu Lele @ Psychium Z / Life Orb
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Protect
Tapu Lele @ Choice Specs
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 116 Def / 76 SpA / 4 SpD / 60 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Thunderbolt
[/spoiler]
The following core in discussion is coined "Surge Offense" with Alolan Raichu, Tapu Koko, and Tapu Lele abusing the combination of both Electric- and Psychic Terrain to bolster their STAB damage output. As stated, the key to using all three of these Pokemon is to apply as much hyper offense as possible thanks to both Alolan Raichu's support moves, and the heavy pressure from the other two Tapus. What's interesting about this core is Alolan Raichu faciliates the offense support with either Fake Out support (careful with Psychic Terrain) and Encore to trap opposing targets into an undesirable attack. Both of Alolan Raichu typings benefit from the Terrains from Tapu Koko and Tapu Lele by increasing the damage of either Electric- or Psychic-type STABs by about 50%. One common lead with this core is Alolan Raichu + Tapu Koko given how Electric Terrain activates Surge Surfer, which in turn doubles the speed of the electric mouse. Regarding to Tapu Koko and Tapu Lele, both heavily pressure Dragon-, Dark-, and others who threaten or can wall Alolan Raichu with heavy terrain boosted attacks. Tapu Lele is rather complemenary between the three given how "frail" these Pokemon are and appreciate the Psychic terrain to "block" priority. Tapu Koko can boost the power of Electric-type attacks for the core and prevent any from falling asleep. One thing to note about this core are item choices as there's a good chance of the three Pokemon will likely run a Z-Crystal or Z-Move based on one of their STABs (Aloraichium Z, Psychium Z, Electrium Z) ready to use. When facing "Surge Offense", attempt to figure out the set of items between the three Pokemon and their other teammates as it will help deduce which items they carry.
- Pokémon featured: Alolan Raichu + Tapu Koko + Tapu Lele
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Raichu-Alola @ Focus Sash
Ability: Surge Surfer
Level: 50
EVs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Fake Out
- Thunderbolt
- Psychic
- Encore
Raichu-Alola @ Aloraichium Z / Psychium Z
Ability: Surge Surfer
Level: 50
EVs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Fake Out
- Thunderbolt
- Psychic
- Encore
Tapu Koko @ Life Orb / Electrium Z / Fairium Z / Focus Sash
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 28 HP / 4 Def / 204 SpA / 28 SpD / 244 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam / Hidden Power Ice
- Discharge / Taunt
- Protect
Tapu Koko @ Assault Vest
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 4 Def / 4 SpA / 164 SpD / 100 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Thunderbolt
- Volt Switch
- Dazzling Gleam
- Nature's Madness
Tapu Lele @ Psychium Z / Life Orb
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Protect
Tapu Lele @ Choice Specs
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 116 Def / 76 SpA / 4 SpD / 60 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Thunderbolt
[/spoiler]
The following core in discussion is coined "Surge Offense" with Alolan Raichu, Tapu Koko, and Tapu Lele abusing the combination of both Electric- and Psychic Terrain to bolster their STAB damage output. As stated, the key to using all three of these Pokemon is to apply as much hyper offense as possible thanks to both Alolan Raichu's support moves, and the heavy pressure from the other two Tapus. What's interesting about this core is Alolan Raichu faciliates the offense support with either Fake Out support (careful with Psychic Terrain) and Encore to trap opposing targets into an undesirable attack. Both of Alolan Raichu typings benefit from the Terrains from Tapu Koko and Tapu Lele by increasing the damage of either Electric- or Psychic-type STABs by about 50%. One common lead with this core is Alolan Raichu + Tapu Koko given how Electric Terrain activates Surge Surfer, which in turn doubles the speed of the electric mouse. Regarding to Tapu Koko and Tapu Lele, both heavily pressure Dragon-, Dark-, and others who threaten or can wall Alolan Raichu with heavy terrain boosted attacks. Tapu Lele is rather complemenary between the three given how "frail" these Pokemon are and appreciate the Psychic terrain to "block" priority. Tapu Koko can boost the power of Electric-type attacks for the core and prevent any from falling asleep. One thing to note about this core are item choices as there's a good chance of the three Pokemon will likely run a Z-Crystal or Z-Move based on one of their STABs (Aloraichium Z, Psychium Z, Electrium Z) ready to use. When facing "Surge Offense", attempt to figure out the set of items between the three Pokemon and their other teammates as it will help deduce which items they carry.
Alolan Ninetales + Alolan Sandslash
- Pokémon featured: Alolan Ninetales + Alolan Sandslash
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Hail Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Ninetales-Alola @ Focus Sash
Ability: Snow Warning
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Blizzard
- Freeze-Dry
- Aurora Veil / Encore
- Protect
Sandslash-Alola @ Life Orb
Ability: Slush Rush
Level: 50
EVs: 68 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def / 60 SpD / 124 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Iron Head
- Icicle Crash
- Earthquake
- Protect
[/spoiler]
This is a standard "Hail-Based Offense" between Alolan Ninetales and Alolan Sandslash given their respective abilities to setup Hail and double one of their speed stats. With Snow Warning, Ninetales is able to spam accurate Blizzard 100% of the time and setup Aurora Veil, a defensive "screen" which reduces the damage dealt by one third. In terms of offensive synergy, Alolan Ninetales appreciates Alolan Sandslash's ability to threaten the opposing Tapus with coverage moves like Iron Head, Icicle Crash, and Earthquake respectively. In turn Alolan Ninetales can threaten opposing Ground-types with Blizzards and even Water-types as well with the Freeze Dry. This core has to be exceptionally careful when dealing with Trick Room modes or teams with strong Fire-type Pokemon such as Arcanine and Drought Torkoal. Its best to use this core as a "fast" mode akin to Scarf Tyranitar and Sand Rush Excadrilll to attempt to pick off any weaken targets.
- Pokémon featured: Alolan Ninetales + Alolan Sandslash
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Hail Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Ninetales-Alola @ Focus Sash
Ability: Snow Warning
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Blizzard
- Freeze-Dry
- Aurora Veil / Encore
- Protect
Sandslash-Alola @ Life Orb
Ability: Slush Rush
Level: 50
EVs: 68 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def / 60 SpD / 124 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Iron Head
- Icicle Crash
- Earthquake
- Protect
[/spoiler]
This is a standard "Hail-Based Offense" between Alolan Ninetales and Alolan Sandslash given their respective abilities to setup Hail and double one of their speed stats. With Snow Warning, Ninetales is able to spam accurate Blizzard 100% of the time and setup Aurora Veil, a defensive "screen" which reduces the damage dealt by one third. In terms of offensive synergy, Alolan Ninetales appreciates Alolan Sandslash's ability to threaten the opposing Tapus with coverage moves like Iron Head, Icicle Crash, and Earthquake respectively. In turn Alolan Ninetales can threaten opposing Ground-types with Blizzards and even Water-types as well with the Freeze Dry. This core has to be exceptionally careful when dealing with Trick Room modes or teams with strong Fire-type Pokemon such as Arcanine and Drought Torkoal. Its best to use this core as a "fast" mode akin to Scarf Tyranitar and Sand Rush Excadrilll to attempt to pick off any weaken targets.
Tapu Bulu + Politoed + Magnezone
- Pokémon featured: Tapu Bulu, Magnezone and Politoed
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Balance
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Tapu Bulu @ Lum Berry
Ability: Grassy Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 36 Atk / 60 Def / 140 SpD / 20 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Horn Leech
- Substitute
- Leech Seed
- Protect
Politoed @ Sitrus Berry
Ability: Drizzle
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 108 Def / 4 SpA / 76 SpD / 68 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Scald
- Perish Song
- Encore
- Protect
Magnezone @ Leftovers
Ability: Magnet Pull
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 44 Def / 12 SpA / 44 SpD / 156 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Thunderbolt
- Flash Cannon
- Substitute
- Protect
[/spoiler]
Written By RebornFX
This core was popularized by Wolfe Glick at the London International Championships and was used by Tobias Koschitzki in London and Ashin Mehta in San Jose to top cut each pf their respective events. Defensively, these 3 Pokemon function phenomenally when it comes to switching in to each other's weaknesses, patching each other's weaknesses and beating each other's checks and counters. Politoed provides rain, reducing the effectiveness of Fire type moves from the likes of Arcanine, Marowak and Incineroar directed at Magnezone and Tapu Bulu. It also comfortably switches in to these Fire type moves for both Bulu and Magnezone, and Steel type moves for Bulu. Tapu Bulu provides Grassy terrain to reduce the effectiveness of Ground moves, as well as providing passive recovery giving the core more staying power (playing in to Politoed's Perish Song win condition that will be explained later). Tapu Bulu comfortably switches in to Grass and Electric type moves for Politoed, as well as Fighting and Ground type moves for Magnezone. Magnezone comfortably switches in to Steel, Ice, Poison and Flying type moves for Tapu Bulu and Electric and Grass type moves for Politoed. Magnezone also plays a key role in trapping and eliminating Celesteela, or in tandem with Politoed, locking it in to an unfavourable move, allowing the player to target Celesteela's partner. The core only shares a common fire weakness, mitigated by the rain.
Politoed has a special niche in its access to Perish Song, creating a win condition for players who are able to pick up 2 KOs while preserving the Pokemon advantage. Once the player has picked up 2 KOs, the opponent is no longer able to switch, allowing the player to safely set up Perish Song and stall 3 turns with Protect and defensive switching to guarantee a win. The sets are taken directly from Wolfe's London International Team Report, though the Magnezone Sp.Atk and Speed EVs were not provided, so speed EVs have been placed to outspeed most Celesteela. However, alternative sets are certainly viable. For example Ashin used a Life Orb, Light Screen Magnezone on his team. This core greatly appreciates an Intimidate user. The particular EV spreads hit certain defensive benchmarks once Intimidate is factored in.
Wolfe's London International Team Report:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMusa8IRIrs&t=992s
Ashin Mehta's Top 8 San Jose Team Report:
http://www.trainertower.com/the-deadly-magnet-and-slug-a-top-8-san-jose-regionals-report/
- Pokémon featured: Tapu Bulu, Magnezone and Politoed
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Balance
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Tapu Bulu @ Lum Berry
Ability: Grassy Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 36 Atk / 60 Def / 140 SpD / 20 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Horn Leech
- Substitute
- Leech Seed
- Protect
Politoed @ Sitrus Berry
Ability: Drizzle
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 108 Def / 4 SpA / 76 SpD / 68 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Scald
- Perish Song
- Encore
- Protect
Magnezone @ Leftovers
Ability: Magnet Pull
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 44 Def / 12 SpA / 44 SpD / 156 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Thunderbolt
- Flash Cannon
- Substitute
- Protect
[/spoiler]
Written By RebornFX
This core was popularized by Wolfe Glick at the London International Championships and was used by Tobias Koschitzki in London and Ashin Mehta in San Jose to top cut each pf their respective events. Defensively, these 3 Pokemon function phenomenally when it comes to switching in to each other's weaknesses, patching each other's weaknesses and beating each other's checks and counters. Politoed provides rain, reducing the effectiveness of Fire type moves from the likes of Arcanine, Marowak and Incineroar directed at Magnezone and Tapu Bulu. It also comfortably switches in to these Fire type moves for both Bulu and Magnezone, and Steel type moves for Bulu. Tapu Bulu provides Grassy terrain to reduce the effectiveness of Ground moves, as well as providing passive recovery giving the core more staying power (playing in to Politoed's Perish Song win condition that will be explained later). Tapu Bulu comfortably switches in to Grass and Electric type moves for Politoed, as well as Fighting and Ground type moves for Magnezone. Magnezone comfortably switches in to Steel, Ice, Poison and Flying type moves for Tapu Bulu and Electric and Grass type moves for Politoed. Magnezone also plays a key role in trapping and eliminating Celesteela, or in tandem with Politoed, locking it in to an unfavourable move, allowing the player to target Celesteela's partner. The core only shares a common fire weakness, mitigated by the rain.
Politoed has a special niche in its access to Perish Song, creating a win condition for players who are able to pick up 2 KOs while preserving the Pokemon advantage. Once the player has picked up 2 KOs, the opponent is no longer able to switch, allowing the player to safely set up Perish Song and stall 3 turns with Protect and defensive switching to guarantee a win. The sets are taken directly from Wolfe's London International Team Report, though the Magnezone Sp.Atk and Speed EVs were not provided, so speed EVs have been placed to outspeed most Celesteela. However, alternative sets are certainly viable. For example Ashin used a Life Orb, Light Screen Magnezone on his team. This core greatly appreciates an Intimidate user. The particular EV spreads hit certain defensive benchmarks once Intimidate is factored in.
Wolfe's London International Team Report:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMusa8IRIrs&t=992s
Ashin Mehta's Top 8 San Jose Team Report:
http://www.trainertower.com/the-deadly-magnet-and-slug-a-top-8-san-jose-regionals-report/
Gigalith + Stoutland
- Pokémon featured: Gigalith + Stoutland
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Sand Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Gigalith @ Rockium Z / Weakness Policy / Groundium Z
Ability: Sturdy
Level: 50
EVs: 188 HP / 148 Atk / 172 SpD
Adamant Nature
- Rock Slide
- Heavy Slam
- Earthquake / Wide Guard
- Protect
Stoutland @ Normalium Z / Life Orb
Ability: Sand Rush
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Return
- Fire Fang / Ice Fang
- After You / Wild Charge
- Protect
[/spoiler]
Following the exclusion of both Tyranitar and Excadrill from the Alolan Dex, some players have turned to a makeshift Gen 5 duo who can provide some from of offense pressure with their strong STAB coverage. It might not sound like it, but both Gigalith and Stoutland are a strong Sand-based core which acts similar to the Sun-based teams with Torkcoal/Liligant. As of Gen 7, Gigalith received the ability Sand Stream which provides the necessary "sand" component of the team to help combat opposing weathers such as Sun, Rain, and Hail. With the sand in play, Gigalith receives a boosts into its special defense stat while Stoutland's speed doubles, thus making it one of the fastest threats in the metagame. Offensive, both Gigalith and Stoutland have a respectable attack stats and rather counter-based speeds which can combat opposing fast mode and Trick Room-based teams. Interesting to note is Stoutland learns the move After You, which allows its ally to move immediately before the opponent, which allows Gigalith to bypass speed brackets and use its Rock-type attacks. In terms of coverage, Gigalith can hit most of the format hard with its rather strong options like Rock Slide, Stone Edge, Heavy Slam, or Earthquake. Stoutland movesets is rather limited since some of its coverage options relies on whether, or not the team needs certain moves, like Fire Fang for Kartana, or Ice Fang for Garchomp, which both threaten the sand core duo.
- Pokémon featured: Gigalith + Stoutland
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Sand Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Gigalith @ Rockium Z / Weakness Policy / Groundium Z
Ability: Sturdy
Level: 50
EVs: 188 HP / 148 Atk / 172 SpD
Adamant Nature
- Rock Slide
- Heavy Slam
- Earthquake / Wide Guard
- Protect
Stoutland @ Normalium Z / Life Orb
Ability: Sand Rush
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Return
- Fire Fang / Ice Fang
- After You / Wild Charge
- Protect
[/spoiler]
Following the exclusion of both Tyranitar and Excadrill from the Alolan Dex, some players have turned to a makeshift Gen 5 duo who can provide some from of offense pressure with their strong STAB coverage. It might not sound like it, but both Gigalith and Stoutland are a strong Sand-based core which acts similar to the Sun-based teams with Torkcoal/Liligant. As of Gen 7, Gigalith received the ability Sand Stream which provides the necessary "sand" component of the team to help combat opposing weathers such as Sun, Rain, and Hail. With the sand in play, Gigalith receives a boosts into its special defense stat while Stoutland's speed doubles, thus making it one of the fastest threats in the metagame. Offensive, both Gigalith and Stoutland have a respectable attack stats and rather counter-based speeds which can combat opposing fast mode and Trick Room-based teams. Interesting to note is Stoutland learns the move After You, which allows its ally to move immediately before the opponent, which allows Gigalith to bypass speed brackets and use its Rock-type attacks. In terms of coverage, Gigalith can hit most of the format hard with its rather strong options like Rock Slide, Stone Edge, Heavy Slam, or Earthquake. Stoutland movesets is rather limited since some of its coverage options relies on whether, or not the team needs certain moves, like Fire Fang for Kartana, or Ice Fang for Garchomp, which both threaten the sand core duo.
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