List of VGC 17 Cores: Part 3
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.
Celesteela + Garchomp + Tapu Koko
- Pokémon featured: Celesteela + Garchomp + Tapu Koko
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Balance
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Garchomp @ Groundium Z
Ability: Rough Skin
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Earthquake
- Poison Jab
- Fire Fang
- Protect
Garchomp @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Rough Skin
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Earthquake
- Dragon Claw
- Poison Jab
- Fire Fang
Celesteela @ Leftovers
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 228 HP / 44 Atk / 116 Def / 116 SpD / 4 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Heavy Slam
- Leech Seed
- Flamethrower
- Protect
Celesteela @ Leftovers
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 188 HP / 4 Atk / 60 Def / 180 SpD / 76 Spe
Careful Nature
- Heavy Slam
- Leech Seed
- Flamethrower
- Protect
Tapu Koko @ Life Orb
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 28 HP / 252 SpA / 228 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam
- Taunt
- Protect
Tapu Koko @ Assault Vest
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 12 Def / 12 SpA / 148 SpD / 100 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Thunderbolt
- Volt Switch
- Dazzling Gleam
- Nature's Madness
[/spoiler]
As much as how far the VGC 17 format progress, the Fantasy, or Steel-Dragon-Fairy-core of the Steel/Flying-type Celesteela, the Dragon/Ground-type Garchomp, and the Electric/Fairy-type Tapu Koko. From an offensive perspective, all three Pokemon here are able to check each other's weaknesses to Poison-, Fire-, Ice-, Water-, and Fairy-type Pokemon through the combination of their respective STAB options. Celesteela provides the main defensive backbone of the core given its amazing typing with a number of resistances and two important immunities to Ground- and Poison-type, both which are hazardous to Tapu Koko. With its impressive bulk, Celesteela is able to tank Fairy- and Ice-type attacks and retaliate with STAB Steel-type moves. Garchomp appreciates Celesteela tremendously as it can handle essentially all its main weaknesses and can be uses alongside the fellow part Flying-type to spam Earthquake freely. As a strong Ground-type user, Garchomp can check most Fire-, and Electric-type Pokemon with its STAB EQ and can shrugg off some hits with is impressive above average bulk. Lastly, Tapu Koko is here mainly as the fast Electric-type Pokemon who can threaten most Water-type Pokemon who typically shrug off hits from both Garchomp and Celesteela while maintain offensive pressure for the core. Both Celesteela and Garchomp help Tapu Koko fair off against opposing Tapu Pokemon and can provide a natural switch in for the frail Electric-type if threaten. Keep in mind with Tapu Koko base 130 speed, it can outspeed most the VGC format, and threaten or pick off opposing Pokemon who Celesteela / Garchomp cannot pace.
What makes this core relatively strong is not only its fantastic type synergy with each other, rather the potential for all three Pokemon to wield different item choices and entirely flexible sets compared to others. For Celesteela, some variants can be mixed bulk investment, but with Atk EVs to increase its Attack stat with Beast Boost, while some others have Special investment to tank special hits in the endgame. For Garchomp, a good portion are either Groundium Z to be able to fire a strong STAB Ground-type attack against the opponent. Choice Scarf is the second most popular set which allows Garchomp to outspeed most of the format including Pheromosa and Tapu Koko before they can retaliate with their coverage options. Tapu Koko is perhaps the most varied Pokemon of the three given it has a possiblility of 3-5 item choices ranging from Life Orb, Choice Specs, Focus Sash, Electrium Z, or Assault Vest. For offensive sets, Tapu Koko typically have Life Orb/Choice Specs to boosts its above average 95 Special Attack, and Electrium Z capable to nuke one target with a STAB Electric Terrain Z-Attack. Finally both Focus Sash and Assault Vest allow Tapu Koko to have a defensive option to withstand one strong hit.
Snorlax + Tapu Fini
- Pokémon featured: Snorlax + Tapu Fini
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Balance
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Snorlax @ Figy Berry
Ability: Gluttony
Level: 50
EVs: 68 HP / 196 Atk / 244 Def
Brave Nature
IVs: 0 Spe
- Return
- High Horsepower
- Curse / Belly Drum
- Recycle
Tapu Fini @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 196 Def / 4 SpA / 36 SpD / 20 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Muddy Water
- Moonblast
- Calm Mind
- Protect
Tapu Fini @ Choice Specs
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 20 Def / 84 SpA / 28 SpD / 124 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Moonblast
- Muddy Water
- Dazzling Gleam
- Scald
[/spoiler]
The rise of Tapu Fini and Snorlax has certainly take the early VGC scene by storm with due part of their incredible bulk and somewhat strong defensive synergy that allows potential setup. Snorlax's sudden rise comes from the recent changes in certain berry mechanics to those such as Figy Berry, which allows the user to replenish 50% of their HP. With the Gluttony ability, Snorlax can now utilize these berries at a faster rate to allow it to recover about half its HP to near full, thus allowing it time to setup or attack. In terms of setup options, Snorlax can utilize Curse rather effective to raise its Attack and Defense stat by one stage, while lowering its already slow base 30 speed, which can actually help when facing Trick Room-based teams. For an intermediate offensive, Belly Drum will maximize Snorlax's Attack to +6 and can just about 2HKOS or OHKOs everything in the format with its coverage. For those who are weary of losing too much HP from Snorlax, Recycle thus exactly that and regains the Figy Berry to which Snorlax can replenish itself again for about another 50% recover. Tapu Fini is one of Snorlax's best partners given how it can can threaten and wall most Fighting-type Pokemon in the format, and provide cover for Snorlax with its Misty Terrain to prevent status conditions. As on of the "weaker" of the Guardian Deities, Tapu Fini appreciates Snorlax ability to tank some of their strongest hits, and if boosted, can threaten for the OHKO. Despite the lack of resistances, Snorlax can serve as a decent switch in for Electric- and Poison-type Pokemon, and can even hit them with super effective High Horsepower. Item choice for Tapu Fini is varied, though most are either Choice Specs to hit opposing Pokemon immediate hard with Fairy- and Water-type STABs, or engage in long term setup like Snorlax with Calm Mind boosts.
Tapu Lele + Pheromosa
- Pokémon featured: Tapu Lele + Pheromosa
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Hyper Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Tapu Lele @ Life Orb
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Protect
Tapu Lele @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 12 HP / 4 Def / 236 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Dazzling Gleam
- Moonblast
- Thunderbolt
Tapu Lele @ Choice Specs
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 212 Def / 36 SpA / 4 SpD / 20 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Dazzling Gleam
- Moonblast
- Thunderbolt
Pheromosa @ Life Orb
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
Naughty Nature
- High Jump Kick
- Ice Beam
- Poison Jab
- Protect
Pheromosa @ Fightinium Z
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
Naughty Nature
- High Jump Kick
- Ice Beam
- Poison Jab
- Protect
Pheromosa @ Focus Sash
Ability: Beast Boost
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
Naughty Nature
- High Jump Kick
- Ice Beam
- Poison Jab
- Protect
[/spoiler]
The pairing between the Psychic/Fairy Tapu Lele and the Bug/Fighting Pheromosa proves to be one of the strongest hyper offensive cores in the format. Whenever anyone sees both Tapu Lele and Pheromosa together in a team, note that the two are there mainly to iniciate the offense thanks to their high damage output to overwhelm the opponent with their respective STABs. One of the notable things about this pair is how Psychic terrain benefits both on an offensive perspective with Lele receiving an additional 50% increase to its STAB Psychic and and protection against priority hits, which is useful for Pheromosa's paper-thin defenses. Tapu Lele has a monstrous base 130 SpA stat paired with its Psychic-terrain-boosted hits to hit anything relatively hard that's not a Steel-, Dark-, or Psychic-types. Keep in mind that all three of these types are weak to the combination of Fighting- and Bug-type STABs, especially from an offensive Pokemon such as Pheromosa. Thanks to its high speed speed stat of 151, Pheromosa can threaten any target with a selection of attacks such as High Jump Kick, Poison Jab, Ice Beam, or Z-High Jump Kick / Z-Focus Blast for that extra power. With Pheromosa covering one of its potential checks, Tapu Lele can focus on any targets who don't appreciate a boosted Psychic attack. Note while these two make for a strong offensive duo capable of hitting most of the VGC 17 format with the combination of Fairy-, Psychic-, and Fighting-type moves, their defensive prowess is near non-existent. As a result, best use both Lele and Pheromosa in which the opponent is heavily pressured and pinned down to the point where they risk losing a Pokemon, or possibly the entire game.
Tapu Fini / Tapu Lele + Drifblim
- Pokémon featured: Tapu Fini / Tapu Lele + Drifblim
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Tapu Fini @ Choice Specs
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 4 Def / 196 SpA / 12 SpD / 60 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Muddy Water
- Hydro Pump
Tapu Fini @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 4 Def / 196 SpA / 4 SpD / 60 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Moonblast
- Muddy Water
- Calm Mind
- Protect
Tapu Lele @ Life Orb
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Dazzling Gleam
- Moonblast
- Protect
Tapu Lele @ Choice Specs
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 212 Def / 36 SpA / 4 SpD / 20 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Dazzling Gleam
- Moonblast
- Thunderbolt
Drifblim @ Misty Seed
Ability: Unburden
Level: 50
EVs: 12 HP / 4 Atk / 164 Def / 252 SpD / 76 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Acrobatics
- Tailwind
- Swagger
- Will-O-Wisp
Drifblim @ Psychic Seed
Ability: Unburden
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 124 Def / 204 SpA / 12 SpD / 164 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Shadow Ball
- Tailwind
- Will-O-Wisp
- Disable
[/spoiler]
This is a rather peculiar core that's become wildly popular as of a result from the introduction to terrain-based seeds. With either Tapu Fini, or Tapu Lele on the field, Drifblim activates its respective Misty / Psychic Terrain from the field which not only boosts its special defense, but also doubles its speed stat thanks the the Unburden ability. With the proper investment, Unburden Drifblim is able to outspeed natural fast threats such as Tapu Koko and Pheromosa, and even outspeed Scarfers like Lele or Garchomp with significant investment. With the boosted speed and increased special defense, Drifblim can provide the team with a plethora of support options with Will-O-Wisp, Disable, Haze, Skill Swap, or most likely Tailwind to further augment its speed and its allies. It might sound counterintuitive to raise Drifblim's speed again, but when thinking about the scenarios, the opponent would need an incredibly fast Taunter with nautral high speed or holding a Scarf to prevent the speed control. Drifblim might likely faint as a result, but this gives the player near guaranteed turns of Tailwind for its team to abuse for the next three turns. Note if Drifblim is being used in Misty Terrain, Will-O-Wisp won't burn the target due to the status conditions failing, but Swagger is an alternative to raise an allied Pokemon in the back by +2 attack stages as well. When paired with Tapu Lele, most Drifblims are able to initiate some from of offense pressure with its high speed and can burn fast threats like Garchomp or Kartana who threaten Lele.
- Pokémon featured: Vikavolt + Garchomp
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Vikavolt @ Iapapa Berry
Ability: Levitate
Level: 50
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 252 HP / 68 Def / 28 SpA / 156 SpD / 4 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
– Discharge
– Bug Buzz
– String Shot
– Protect
Garchomp @ Groundium Z
Ability: Rough Skin
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Earthquake
- Dragon Claw
- Poison Jab
- Protect
[/spoiler]
by Aquarium1
Here's a very underrated core that I'm honestly surprised this core hasn't been used in major tournaments yet. It's pretty simple disquake combo but it's strong in the current meta. This core has an excellent match up vs AFK(Arcanine, Tapu fini, and Kartana core) and Drifblim cores that are so popular. String shot is an excellent form of speed control that helps give Vikavolt some utility. The ev spread for Vikavolt comes from SamVGC Top 4 Dallas Regionals Report
Mimikyu + Snorlax
- Pokémon featured: Mimikyu + Snorlax
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Trick Room Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Mimikyu @ Ghostium Z
Ability: Disguise
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Shadow Claw
- Play Rough
- Destiny Bond
- Trick Room
Mimikyu @ Fairium Z
Ability: Disguise
Level: 50
EVs: 228 HP / 252 Atk / 20 Def / 4 SpA / 4 SpD
Adamant Nature
- Play Rough
- Shadow Claw
- Taunt
- Trick Room
------
Snorlax @ Figy Berry
Ability: Gluttony
Level: 50
EVs: 68 HP / 252 Atk / 188 Def
Brave Nature
IVs: 0 Spe
- Return
- High Horsepower
- Belly Drum
- Protect
Snorlax @ Figy Berry
Ability: Gluttony
Level: 50
EVs: 68 HP / 124 Atk / 196 Def / 4 SpA / 116 SpD
Brave Nature
IVs: 0 Spe
- Return
- High Horsepower
- Curse
- Recycle
[/spoiler]
One of the strongest Trick Room offensive cores to come from past month is the pair of the Ghost/Fairy-type Mimikyu and the slow Normal-type Snorlax, popularized by Gavin Michael's recent VGC team that won Anaheim regionals. With the Disguise ability, Mimikyu has at least one opportunity to withstand any potential double targeting from the opposing team as it attempt to setup Trick Room for its ally Snorlax. There are many unique ways to run Mimikyu in hybrid and hard Trick Room teams given its many item choices to establish speed control such as Mental Herb to block Taunt, Focus Sash to withstand an fatal hit, or a dedicated Z-Moves to OHKO key targets or unique support. Now the reason this core is extremely threatening is not only the potential Trick Room from Mimikyu, but also Snorlax going for a Belly Drum to maximize its attack stat and thus immediately outspeed OHKO nearly all Pokemon in TR . Thanks to the buffed Figy (also dubbed "FIWAM" Berries) and the Gluttony ability, Snorlax has an extra 50% of its original HP to utilize for a Belly Drum setup, which in theory will replenish it back to full health provide the opponent doesn't attack the Normal-type. If that wasn't enough, some Snorlax sets carry Recycle to reuse their respective FIWAM Berry and gain pseudo recovery for longevity, while still keeping offensive pressure in the long run. Other Snorlax carry Protect in case they fear the potential double up and can "attract" any attackers as Mimikyu setups Trick Room. Once in Trick Room, Snorlax can threaten almost any Steel-, Fire-, and Poison-type who threaten Mimikyu with the boosted High Horsepower, or its STAB Return. In turn, Mimikyu is one of the best checks to commonly seen Fighting-types such as Pheromosa, Buzzwole, and Hariyama who easily threaten or force out the Snorlax and can easily which in thanks to its Ghost-typing. Given how popular this offensive Trick Room core has become, here are some other options that have been utilize to various degrees of success. Psych Up and Shadow Sneak on Mimikyu is another alternative set to use in case Mimikyu manages to "survive", and enable Trick Room as Snorlax goes for the Belly Drum. Psych Up allows Mimikyu to copy the boosts of Snorlax's Belly Drum or Curse to gain a boosted attack power and can also threaten OHKOs as its partner Snorlax. If setting up Belly Drum is a priority, Z-Destiny Bond can be utilized from Mimikyu to 1) draw attention away from Snorlax as it setup for that respective turn, and 2) take out the "attacker" in a one for one trade.
Pheromosa + Oricorio (Pom Pom)
- Pokémon featured: Pheromosa + Oricorio Pom-Pom
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Hyper Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Pheromosa @ Focus Sash
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest / Mild Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Bug Buzz / HP Ground
- Focus Blast / High Jump Kick / Taunt
- Ice Beam
- Quiver Dance
Oricorio-Pom-Pom @ Flyinium Z
Ability: Dancer
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Revelation Dance
- Hurricane
- Tailwind
- Protect
[/spoiler]
What looks like a rather gimmicky setup-based strategy here is a popular hyper offensive core which was brought to popularity by a Japanese player from Battle Spot VGC ladder. The idea of the core is rather simple: go for a Quiver Dance setup with the fast Pheromosa and either attack with the Electric/Flying-type Oricorio, or Protect or be sure it can copy the boosts with its Dancer ability. Speaking of Oricorio's ability Dancer, it copies all Dance-based moves in the game, including such moves such as Sword Dance, Dragon Dance, and in this case Quiver Dance. Despite the lack of offensive and even defensive value from Oricorio Pom Pom, it can copy the Quiver Dance boosts even if it goes for Protect, and essentially gets a free setup. Once at +1 in Special Attack, Special Defense, and Speed, Oricorio can start to threaten most of the format with the combination of either Revelation Dance (basically Thunderbolt) or its Flying-type Z-Hurricane, which after +1 can hit OHKO or hit most of the format extremely hard. The goal of the two like all hyper offensive core is to attempt to sweep or break down team team with their damage output. Once Pheromosa manages to get off the Quiver Dance to its parter, the Oricorio has the choice to protect to guarantee the boosts, go for the +1 Z-Hurricane / Revelation Dance, or even so setup more speed with a Tailwind boost. If Pheromosa manages to survive thanks to the Focus Sash or force a protect/switch, it can proceed to setup another Quiver Dance, or likely go for the offense at this point with Oricorio. Some Pheromosa sets do carry options to "beat" Trick Room like Taunt to temporaily block it, or High Jump Kick (even riskier Focus Blast) to hit Porygon2 for a KO. HP Ground is listed since after one boost, Pheromosa can OHKO most 4 HP Tapu Koko variants quite effectively. In fact, if Pheromosa manages to setup Quiver Dance and get an additonal +1 SpA Beast Boost, its hard to stop without priority, residual damage, or speed control.
Gyarados + Togedemaru
- Pokémon featured: Gyarados + Togedemaru
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Gyarados @ Waterium Z / Sitrus Berry
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 52 HP / 196 Atk / 76 Def / 4 SpD / 180 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Waterfall
- Ice Fang
- Protect
- Dragon Dance
Togedemaru @ Air Balloon / Focus Sash
Ability: Lightning Rod
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Fake Out
- Zing Zap
- Encore / Nuzzle
- Spiky Shield
[/spoiler]
One of the most interesting cores that some people thought was rather a gimmick has gain popularity and usages thanks to its recent 1st place win at the Collinville Regionals by LexiconVGC: Dragon Dance Gyarados and Lightenrod Togedemaru. Unlike the previous popular core between Gyarados and Alolan Marowak (also another Lightening Rod user), what Togedemaru offers is more support coverage aside redirecting all single-target Electric-type attacks. In terms of synergy, Togedemaru has a large amount of resistances and good ammount of support moves in Fake Out to flinch one target in its first turn, Encore to trap them into an unfavorable position, and Nuzzle for paralysis to support Gyarados sweep. Notably two of Togedemaru's weakeness are Ground- and Fire-type Pokemon, both of which don't fair extremely well against Gyarados. Its with these support options and Lightening Rod that allows Gyarados to setup potentially multiple Dragon Dances to where it can hit its targets hard with either Waterfall (also its Z-Move), Ice Fang, Earthquake, or the event exclusive Bounce. Some Gyarados do carry a Sitrus or FIWAM (50% Berry) to replenish their HP in order to allow more chances to setup as well as extra HP replenishment.
Celesteela + Garchomp + Tapu Koko
- Pokémon featured: Celesteela + Garchomp + Tapu Koko
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Balance
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Garchomp @ Groundium Z
Ability: Rough Skin
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Earthquake
- Poison Jab
- Fire Fang
- Protect
Garchomp @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Rough Skin
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Earthquake
- Dragon Claw
- Poison Jab
- Fire Fang
Celesteela @ Leftovers
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 228 HP / 44 Atk / 116 Def / 116 SpD / 4 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Heavy Slam
- Leech Seed
- Flamethrower
- Protect
Celesteela @ Leftovers
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 188 HP / 4 Atk / 60 Def / 180 SpD / 76 Spe
Careful Nature
- Heavy Slam
- Leech Seed
- Flamethrower
- Protect
Tapu Koko @ Life Orb
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 28 HP / 252 SpA / 228 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam
- Taunt
- Protect
Tapu Koko @ Assault Vest
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 12 Def / 12 SpA / 148 SpD / 100 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Thunderbolt
- Volt Switch
- Dazzling Gleam
- Nature's Madness
[/spoiler]
As much as how far the VGC 17 format progress, the Fantasy, or Steel-Dragon-Fairy-core of the Steel/Flying-type Celesteela, the Dragon/Ground-type Garchomp, and the Electric/Fairy-type Tapu Koko. From an offensive perspective, all three Pokemon here are able to check each other's weaknesses to Poison-, Fire-, Ice-, Water-, and Fairy-type Pokemon through the combination of their respective STAB options. Celesteela provides the main defensive backbone of the core given its amazing typing with a number of resistances and two important immunities to Ground- and Poison-type, both which are hazardous to Tapu Koko. With its impressive bulk, Celesteela is able to tank Fairy- and Ice-type attacks and retaliate with STAB Steel-type moves. Garchomp appreciates Celesteela tremendously as it can handle essentially all its main weaknesses and can be uses alongside the fellow part Flying-type to spam Earthquake freely. As a strong Ground-type user, Garchomp can check most Fire-, and Electric-type Pokemon with its STAB EQ and can shrugg off some hits with is impressive above average bulk. Lastly, Tapu Koko is here mainly as the fast Electric-type Pokemon who can threaten most Water-type Pokemon who typically shrug off hits from both Garchomp and Celesteela while maintain offensive pressure for the core. Both Celesteela and Garchomp help Tapu Koko fair off against opposing Tapu Pokemon and can provide a natural switch in for the frail Electric-type if threaten. Keep in mind with Tapu Koko base 130 speed, it can outspeed most the VGC format, and threaten or pick off opposing Pokemon who Celesteela / Garchomp cannot pace.
What makes this core relatively strong is not only its fantastic type synergy with each other, rather the potential for all three Pokemon to wield different item choices and entirely flexible sets compared to others. For Celesteela, some variants can be mixed bulk investment, but with Atk EVs to increase its Attack stat with Beast Boost, while some others have Special investment to tank special hits in the endgame. For Garchomp, a good portion are either Groundium Z to be able to fire a strong STAB Ground-type attack against the opponent. Choice Scarf is the second most popular set which allows Garchomp to outspeed most of the format including Pheromosa and Tapu Koko before they can retaliate with their coverage options. Tapu Koko is perhaps the most varied Pokemon of the three given it has a possiblility of 3-5 item choices ranging from Life Orb, Choice Specs, Focus Sash, Electrium Z, or Assault Vest. For offensive sets, Tapu Koko typically have Life Orb/Choice Specs to boosts its above average 95 Special Attack, and Electrium Z capable to nuke one target with a STAB Electric Terrain Z-Attack. Finally both Focus Sash and Assault Vest allow Tapu Koko to have a defensive option to withstand one strong hit.
Snorlax + Tapu Fini
- Pokémon featured: Snorlax + Tapu Fini
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Balance
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Snorlax @ Figy Berry
Ability: Gluttony
Level: 50
EVs: 68 HP / 196 Atk / 244 Def
Brave Nature
IVs: 0 Spe
- Return
- High Horsepower
- Curse / Belly Drum
- Recycle
Tapu Fini @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 196 Def / 4 SpA / 36 SpD / 20 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Muddy Water
- Moonblast
- Calm Mind
- Protect
Tapu Fini @ Choice Specs
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 20 Def / 84 SpA / 28 SpD / 124 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Moonblast
- Muddy Water
- Dazzling Gleam
- Scald
[/spoiler]
The rise of Tapu Fini and Snorlax has certainly take the early VGC scene by storm with due part of their incredible bulk and somewhat strong defensive synergy that allows potential setup. Snorlax's sudden rise comes from the recent changes in certain berry mechanics to those such as Figy Berry, which allows the user to replenish 50% of their HP. With the Gluttony ability, Snorlax can now utilize these berries at a faster rate to allow it to recover about half its HP to near full, thus allowing it time to setup or attack. In terms of setup options, Snorlax can utilize Curse rather effective to raise its Attack and Defense stat by one stage, while lowering its already slow base 30 speed, which can actually help when facing Trick Room-based teams. For an intermediate offensive, Belly Drum will maximize Snorlax's Attack to +6 and can just about 2HKOS or OHKOs everything in the format with its coverage. For those who are weary of losing too much HP from Snorlax, Recycle thus exactly that and regains the Figy Berry to which Snorlax can replenish itself again for about another 50% recover. Tapu Fini is one of Snorlax's best partners given how it can can threaten and wall most Fighting-type Pokemon in the format, and provide cover for Snorlax with its Misty Terrain to prevent status conditions. As on of the "weaker" of the Guardian Deities, Tapu Fini appreciates Snorlax ability to tank some of their strongest hits, and if boosted, can threaten for the OHKO. Despite the lack of resistances, Snorlax can serve as a decent switch in for Electric- and Poison-type Pokemon, and can even hit them with super effective High Horsepower. Item choice for Tapu Fini is varied, though most are either Choice Specs to hit opposing Pokemon immediate hard with Fairy- and Water-type STABs, or engage in long term setup like Snorlax with Calm Mind boosts.
Tapu Lele + Pheromosa
- Pokémon featured: Tapu Lele + Pheromosa
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Hyper Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Tapu Lele @ Life Orb
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Protect
Tapu Lele @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 12 HP / 4 Def / 236 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Dazzling Gleam
- Moonblast
- Thunderbolt
Tapu Lele @ Choice Specs
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 212 Def / 36 SpA / 4 SpD / 20 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Dazzling Gleam
- Moonblast
- Thunderbolt
Pheromosa @ Life Orb
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
Naughty Nature
- High Jump Kick
- Ice Beam
- Poison Jab
- Protect
Pheromosa @ Fightinium Z
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
Naughty Nature
- High Jump Kick
- Ice Beam
- Poison Jab
- Protect
Pheromosa @ Focus Sash
Ability: Beast Boost
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
Naughty Nature
- High Jump Kick
- Ice Beam
- Poison Jab
- Protect
[/spoiler]
The pairing between the Psychic/Fairy Tapu Lele and the Bug/Fighting Pheromosa proves to be one of the strongest hyper offensive cores in the format. Whenever anyone sees both Tapu Lele and Pheromosa together in a team, note that the two are there mainly to iniciate the offense thanks to their high damage output to overwhelm the opponent with their respective STABs. One of the notable things about this pair is how Psychic terrain benefits both on an offensive perspective with Lele receiving an additional 50% increase to its STAB Psychic and and protection against priority hits, which is useful for Pheromosa's paper-thin defenses. Tapu Lele has a monstrous base 130 SpA stat paired with its Psychic-terrain-boosted hits to hit anything relatively hard that's not a Steel-, Dark-, or Psychic-types. Keep in mind that all three of these types are weak to the combination of Fighting- and Bug-type STABs, especially from an offensive Pokemon such as Pheromosa. Thanks to its high speed speed stat of 151, Pheromosa can threaten any target with a selection of attacks such as High Jump Kick, Poison Jab, Ice Beam, or Z-High Jump Kick / Z-Focus Blast for that extra power. With Pheromosa covering one of its potential checks, Tapu Lele can focus on any targets who don't appreciate a boosted Psychic attack. Note while these two make for a strong offensive duo capable of hitting most of the VGC 17 format with the combination of Fairy-, Psychic-, and Fighting-type moves, their defensive prowess is near non-existent. As a result, best use both Lele and Pheromosa in which the opponent is heavily pressured and pinned down to the point where they risk losing a Pokemon, or possibly the entire game.
Tapu Fini / Tapu Lele + Drifblim
- Pokémon featured: Tapu Fini / Tapu Lele + Drifblim
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Tapu Fini @ Choice Specs
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 4 Def / 196 SpA / 12 SpD / 60 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Muddy Water
- Hydro Pump
Tapu Fini @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 4 Def / 196 SpA / 4 SpD / 60 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Moonblast
- Muddy Water
- Calm Mind
- Protect
Tapu Lele @ Life Orb
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Dazzling Gleam
- Moonblast
- Protect
Tapu Lele @ Choice Specs
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 212 Def / 36 SpA / 4 SpD / 20 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Dazzling Gleam
- Moonblast
- Thunderbolt
Drifblim @ Misty Seed
Ability: Unburden
Level: 50
EVs: 12 HP / 4 Atk / 164 Def / 252 SpD / 76 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Acrobatics
- Tailwind
- Swagger
- Will-O-Wisp
Drifblim @ Psychic Seed
Ability: Unburden
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 124 Def / 204 SpA / 12 SpD / 164 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Shadow Ball
- Tailwind
- Will-O-Wisp
- Disable
[/spoiler]
This is a rather peculiar core that's become wildly popular as of a result from the introduction to terrain-based seeds. With either Tapu Fini, or Tapu Lele on the field, Drifblim activates its respective Misty / Psychic Terrain from the field which not only boosts its special defense, but also doubles its speed stat thanks the the Unburden ability. With the proper investment, Unburden Drifblim is able to outspeed natural fast threats such as Tapu Koko and Pheromosa, and even outspeed Scarfers like Lele or Garchomp with significant investment. With the boosted speed and increased special defense, Drifblim can provide the team with a plethora of support options with Will-O-Wisp, Disable, Haze, Skill Swap, or most likely Tailwind to further augment its speed and its allies. It might sound counterintuitive to raise Drifblim's speed again, but when thinking about the scenarios, the opponent would need an incredibly fast Taunter with nautral high speed or holding a Scarf to prevent the speed control. Drifblim might likely faint as a result, but this gives the player near guaranteed turns of Tailwind for its team to abuse for the next three turns. Note if Drifblim is being used in Misty Terrain, Will-O-Wisp won't burn the target due to the status conditions failing, but Swagger is an alternative to raise an allied Pokemon in the back by +2 attack stages as well. When paired with Tapu Lele, most Drifblims are able to initiate some from of offense pressure with its high speed and can burn fast threats like Garchomp or Kartana who threaten Lele.
- Pokémon featured: Vikavolt + Garchomp
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Vikavolt @ Iapapa Berry
Ability: Levitate
Level: 50
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 252 HP / 68 Def / 28 SpA / 156 SpD / 4 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
– Discharge
– Bug Buzz
– String Shot
– Protect
Garchomp @ Groundium Z
Ability: Rough Skin
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Earthquake
- Dragon Claw
- Poison Jab
- Protect
[/spoiler]
by Aquarium1
Here's a very underrated core that I'm honestly surprised this core hasn't been used in major tournaments yet. It's pretty simple disquake combo but it's strong in the current meta. This core has an excellent match up vs AFK(Arcanine, Tapu fini, and Kartana core) and Drifblim cores that are so popular. String shot is an excellent form of speed control that helps give Vikavolt some utility. The ev spread for Vikavolt comes from SamVGC Top 4 Dallas Regionals Report
Mimikyu + Snorlax
- Pokémon featured: Mimikyu + Snorlax
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Trick Room Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Mimikyu @ Ghostium Z
Ability: Disguise
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Shadow Claw
- Play Rough
- Destiny Bond
- Trick Room
Mimikyu @ Fairium Z
Ability: Disguise
Level: 50
EVs: 228 HP / 252 Atk / 20 Def / 4 SpA / 4 SpD
Adamant Nature
- Play Rough
- Shadow Claw
- Taunt
- Trick Room
------
Snorlax @ Figy Berry
Ability: Gluttony
Level: 50
EVs: 68 HP / 252 Atk / 188 Def
Brave Nature
IVs: 0 Spe
- Return
- High Horsepower
- Belly Drum
- Protect
Snorlax @ Figy Berry
Ability: Gluttony
Level: 50
EVs: 68 HP / 124 Atk / 196 Def / 4 SpA / 116 SpD
Brave Nature
IVs: 0 Spe
- Return
- High Horsepower
- Curse
- Recycle
[/spoiler]
One of the strongest Trick Room offensive cores to come from past month is the pair of the Ghost/Fairy-type Mimikyu and the slow Normal-type Snorlax, popularized by Gavin Michael's recent VGC team that won Anaheim regionals. With the Disguise ability, Mimikyu has at least one opportunity to withstand any potential double targeting from the opposing team as it attempt to setup Trick Room for its ally Snorlax. There are many unique ways to run Mimikyu in hybrid and hard Trick Room teams given its many item choices to establish speed control such as Mental Herb to block Taunt, Focus Sash to withstand an fatal hit, or a dedicated Z-Moves to OHKO key targets or unique support. Now the reason this core is extremely threatening is not only the potential Trick Room from Mimikyu, but also Snorlax going for a Belly Drum to maximize its attack stat and thus immediately outspeed OHKO nearly all Pokemon in TR . Thanks to the buffed Figy (also dubbed "FIWAM" Berries) and the Gluttony ability, Snorlax has an extra 50% of its original HP to utilize for a Belly Drum setup, which in theory will replenish it back to full health provide the opponent doesn't attack the Normal-type. If that wasn't enough, some Snorlax sets carry Recycle to reuse their respective FIWAM Berry and gain pseudo recovery for longevity, while still keeping offensive pressure in the long run. Other Snorlax carry Protect in case they fear the potential double up and can "attract" any attackers as Mimikyu setups Trick Room. Once in Trick Room, Snorlax can threaten almost any Steel-, Fire-, and Poison-type who threaten Mimikyu with the boosted High Horsepower, or its STAB Return. In turn, Mimikyu is one of the best checks to commonly seen Fighting-types such as Pheromosa, Buzzwole, and Hariyama who easily threaten or force out the Snorlax and can easily which in thanks to its Ghost-typing. Given how popular this offensive Trick Room core has become, here are some other options that have been utilize to various degrees of success. Psych Up and Shadow Sneak on Mimikyu is another alternative set to use in case Mimikyu manages to "survive", and enable Trick Room as Snorlax goes for the Belly Drum. Psych Up allows Mimikyu to copy the boosts of Snorlax's Belly Drum or Curse to gain a boosted attack power and can also threaten OHKOs as its partner Snorlax. If setting up Belly Drum is a priority, Z-Destiny Bond can be utilized from Mimikyu to 1) draw attention away from Snorlax as it setup for that respective turn, and 2) take out the "attacker" in a one for one trade.
Pheromosa + Oricorio (Pom Pom)
- Pokémon featured: Pheromosa + Oricorio Pom-Pom
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Hyper Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Pheromosa @ Focus Sash
Ability: Beast Boost
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest / Mild Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Bug Buzz / HP Ground
- Focus Blast / High Jump Kick / Taunt
- Ice Beam
- Quiver Dance
Oricorio-Pom-Pom @ Flyinium Z
Ability: Dancer
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Revelation Dance
- Hurricane
- Tailwind
- Protect
[/spoiler]
What looks like a rather gimmicky setup-based strategy here is a popular hyper offensive core which was brought to popularity by a Japanese player from Battle Spot VGC ladder. The idea of the core is rather simple: go for a Quiver Dance setup with the fast Pheromosa and either attack with the Electric/Flying-type Oricorio, or Protect or be sure it can copy the boosts with its Dancer ability. Speaking of Oricorio's ability Dancer, it copies all Dance-based moves in the game, including such moves such as Sword Dance, Dragon Dance, and in this case Quiver Dance. Despite the lack of offensive and even defensive value from Oricorio Pom Pom, it can copy the Quiver Dance boosts even if it goes for Protect, and essentially gets a free setup. Once at +1 in Special Attack, Special Defense, and Speed, Oricorio can start to threaten most of the format with the combination of either Revelation Dance (basically Thunderbolt) or its Flying-type Z-Hurricane, which after +1 can hit OHKO or hit most of the format extremely hard. The goal of the two like all hyper offensive core is to attempt to sweep or break down team team with their damage output. Once Pheromosa manages to get off the Quiver Dance to its parter, the Oricorio has the choice to protect to guarantee the boosts, go for the +1 Z-Hurricane / Revelation Dance, or even so setup more speed with a Tailwind boost. If Pheromosa manages to survive thanks to the Focus Sash or force a protect/switch, it can proceed to setup another Quiver Dance, or likely go for the offense at this point with Oricorio. Some Pheromosa sets do carry options to "beat" Trick Room like Taunt to temporaily block it, or High Jump Kick (even riskier Focus Blast) to hit Porygon2 for a KO. HP Ground is listed since after one boost, Pheromosa can OHKO most 4 HP Tapu Koko variants quite effectively. In fact, if Pheromosa manages to setup Quiver Dance and get an additonal +1 SpA Beast Boost, its hard to stop without priority, residual damage, or speed control.
Gyarados + Togedemaru
- Pokémon featured: Gyarados + Togedemaru
- Metagame: S/M VGC 17
- Core type: Offense
- Sets:
[spoiler]
Gyarados @ Waterium Z / Sitrus Berry
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 52 HP / 196 Atk / 76 Def / 4 SpD / 180 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Waterfall
- Ice Fang
- Protect
- Dragon Dance
Togedemaru @ Air Balloon / Focus Sash
Ability: Lightning Rod
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Fake Out
- Zing Zap
- Encore / Nuzzle
- Spiky Shield
[/spoiler]
One of the most interesting cores that some people thought was rather a gimmick has gain popularity and usages thanks to its recent 1st place win at the Collinville Regionals by LexiconVGC: Dragon Dance Gyarados and Lightenrod Togedemaru. Unlike the previous popular core between Gyarados and Alolan Marowak (also another Lightening Rod user), what Togedemaru offers is more support coverage aside redirecting all single-target Electric-type attacks. In terms of synergy, Togedemaru has a large amount of resistances and good ammount of support moves in Fake Out to flinch one target in its first turn, Encore to trap them into an unfavorable position, and Nuzzle for paralysis to support Gyarados sweep. Notably two of Togedemaru's weakeness are Ground- and Fire-type Pokemon, both of which don't fair extremely well against Gyarados. Its with these support options and Lightening Rod that allows Gyarados to setup potentially multiple Dragon Dances to where it can hit its targets hard with either Waterfall (also its Z-Move), Ice Fang, Earthquake, or the event exclusive Bounce. Some Gyarados do carry a Sitrus or FIWAM (50% Berry) to replenish their HP in order to allow more chances to setup as well as extra HP replenishment.
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