VGC 17 Analysis: Tapu Fini

(VGC 2017) Tapu Fini ( Calm Mind / Utility / Special Attacker ) Movesets


Dec 15th 2016

Deviant Art by tatanrg

Today we cover the last, but certainly not least valued member of the Guardian Deities of Alola: Tapu Fini. Some people who've already played or follow the current format notice Tapu Fini is "less used" compared to its counterparts. This might be due to the fact Misty Surge, which thus summons Misty Terrain, doesn't "boost" Tapu Fini's STAB of Water/Fairy-typing. In fact, Misty Terrain essentially blocks all status conditions on the field making Tapu Fini and other would be Status Inflicter be unable to land Toxic, Thunder Wave, Will-O-Wisp on grounded targets. Offensively, Tapu Fini has the same Special Attack stat as Tapu Koko, however again the difference in usage is Tapu Koko's respective Electric Terrain boosts its own STAB. Though these might sound like negative drawbacks of using Tapu Fini, well lets get into the positives and some noticeable things about the Tapu.

While it might not be as offensive compared to the other Guardian Deities, Tapu Fini has a rather respectable bulk of about 70 HP / 115 Def / 130 Sp. Def making it one of the most bulky Pokemon in the format. Typing wise, Tapu Fini's Water/Fairy-typing is one of the best defensive typings in the game giving Fini about six resistances, one immunity, and great STABs only resisted by a small handful of Grass- or Poison-types. Given Tapu Fini is one of the Guardian Deities, it can switch in, or be used as a potential lead to counter the opposing terrain effects. Even as a support Pokemon, Tapu Fini has enough options to assist its partners with moves such as Taunt, Swagger, Nature's Madness, and Heal Pulse. Even a potential Calm Mind Tapu Fini is strong enough to wrestle against some of the common defensive cores at the moment with proper setup and protection of threats.

Perhaps the best thing Tapu Fini offers unlike the other Tapu Pokemon is the ability to block out harmful status moves on all grounded Pokemon on the field. Though it might sound counter intuitive to say this, there are Pokemon who rely on their Status Conditions to function well and this allow potential setup sweepers to take advantage of this. Even with all the status-heavy format, note Tapu Fini is still weak to Electric-, Grass-, and Poison-type Pokemon not to mention two of them are opposing Tapu Pokemon. In sum, Tapu Fini is must be used for its defensive qualities it can provide for the team, or else it will flop like a magikarp...ok I'll leave...

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Tapu Fini

Type: :water: :fairy:
Base Stats: 70 HP / 75 Attack / 115 Defense /  95 Special Attack / 130 Special Defense / 85 Speed
Weaknesses:  :poison: x2  :electric:  x2 :grass: x2
Resistances: :fighting:  x0.5  :bug:  x0.5 :dark:  x0.5  :fire:  x0.5 :ice:  x0.5 :water:  x0.5
Immunities: :dragon:
Abilities:  Misty Surge - Summons Misty Terrrain which in turn is active for 5 turns. Misty Terrain blocks the effects of all non volitale or "status conditions" such as Yawn and halves the damage of Dragon-type moves for all "grounded" Pokemon.

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 Calm Mind Setup

Tapu Fini @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 148 Def / 68 SpA / 4 SpD / 44 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Moonblast
- Scald / Muddy Water
- Calm Mind
- Protect

Milestones: 
-Avoids being OHKOed by a Wilc Charge or Thunderbolt LO from Tapu Koko without Electric Terrain
-Takes two Poison Jabs from Garchomp / Pheromosa without a boosting item.
-Takes two LO Psychics from Tapu Lele (without Psychic Terrain) relatively well.
-OHKOs 4 Garchomp after +1 CM Moonblast.

The goal of this Tapu Fini set is essentially to setup on things that can't deal major damage or immediately OHKO it. Given how there are passive defensive threats like Milotic, Gastrodon, Defensive Arcanine, Porygon2, Celesteela, etc allows for Tapu Fini multiple opportunities to setup Calm Minds. For those "worried" about being potential status target, well Tapu Fini has Misty Terrain to block any form of status condition for up to five turns. Note Tapu Fini can serve as a defensive switch against certain passive base teams as it can take most hits rather well with its high defenses or block status conditions. In terms of attacking options, Moonblast is the primary STAB of choice as to hit most targets with a neutral hits with the added chance for a Special Attack drop. Given this is a Calm Mind Tapu Fini set, any drops against special attacker will further allow Fini with opportunities to setup again with its high special stats. Scald might sound off with Misty Terrain preventing status but Tapu Fini can still "burn" Flying-types like Gyarados or Celesteela. Keep in mind Moonblast is far stronger a STAB option than Scald and Misty Terrain will "eventually" wear itself off over time, unless another Tapu switches in. Muddy Water is an option for hitting spread damage against the opponent with an additional 30% chance for accuracy drops. Ironically, Muddy Water can be a viability at times given it has a 15% chance to miss on an individual target. Lastly, Protect is opted to scout for an attack, better position itself for the battle, or for the gradual Leftovers recovery.

The EV Spread showcased here might be off, but will explain. On the defensive end, Tapu Fini is capable of taking one STAB LO Wild Charge from Tapu Koko (without Electric Terrain), can take two Poison Jabs from non boosted Garchomp/Pheromosa, and two Meteor Mashes from Metagross. From the special side, with only Calm and 4 SpDef EVs Tapu Fini can take a STAB LO Thunderbolt from Tapu Koko (without Electric Terrain), two STAB Psychics from neutral Tapu Lele (without Psychic Terrain), and loads of other special hits. These defensive calculations are even better assuming Tapu Fini manages to setup a couple Calm Minds or if provided with Intimidate support. The 68 SpA allows Tapu Fini to take out 4 HP Garchomp and Arcanine with the respective STABs Moonblast / Scald. The speed lets Tapu Fini "speed creep" base 80s and 85s if there's any Pokemon running investment.

To get a sense of how bulk and strong CM Tapu Fini is, here are a list of Damage Calculations with only Scald/Moonblast and its defensive investments.

Offensive Calcs
[spoiler]

+1 CM Moonblast 

+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Moonblast vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp: 188-224 (102.7 - 122.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Moonblast vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Salamence: 200-236 (116.9 - 138%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Moonblast vs. 244 HP / 140+ SpD Gastrodon: 76-90 (35 - 41.4%) -- 72.9% chance to 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Moonblast vs. 252 HP / 12 SpD Hariyama: 242-288 (96.4 - 114.7%) -- 81.3% chance to OHKO
+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Moonblast vs. 252 HP / 252+ SpD Pelipper: 76-90 (45.5 - 53.8%) -- 37.9% chance to 2HKO
+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Moonblast vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Weavile: 188-224 (129.6 - 154.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO

+1 CM Scald

+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Scald vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Marowak-Alola: 168-198 (100.5 - 118.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Scald vs. 252 HP / 12 SpD Arcanine: 168-198 (85.2 - 100.5%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Scald vs. 252 HP / 156 SpD Gigalith in Sand: 96-114 (50 - 59.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Scald vs. 252 HP / 92 SpD Assault Vest Mudsdale: 98-116 (47.3 - 56%) -- 73.8% chance to 2HKO
+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Scald vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Aerodactyl: 176-210 (112.8 - 134.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Scald vs. 28 HP / 0 SpD Krookodile: 186-222 (106.8 - 127.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 68 SpA Tapu Fini Scald vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Torkoal in Sun: 90-108 (50.8 - 61%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

[/spoiler]

Defensive Calcs
[spoiler]

Physical Defense

252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. 244 HP / 148 Def Tapu Fini in Misty Terrain: 51-60 (28.9 - 34%) -- 97.2% chance to 4HKO after Leftovers recovery-252 Atk
252 Atk Garchomp Poison Jab vs. 244 HP / 148 Def Tapu Fini: 72-86 (40.9 - 48.8%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery-252+ Atk Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 252- Atk Life Orb Tapu Koko Wild Charge vs. 244 HP / 148 Def Tapu Fini: 133-156 (75.5 - 88.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after hail damage and Leftovers recovery
252 Atk Pheromosa Poison Jab vs. 244 HP / 148 Def Tapu Fini: 76-90 (43.1 - 51.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
252+ Atk Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 244 HP / 148 Def Tapu Fini: 67-81 (38 - 46%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
252+ Atk Choice Band Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 244 HP / 148 Def Tapu Fini: 118-140 (67 - 79.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 Atk Kartana Leaf Blade vs. 244 HP / 148 Def Tapu Fini: 152-182 (86.3 - 103.4%) -- 25% chance to OHKO
252+ Atk Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 244 HP / 148 Def Tapu Fini: 110-132 (62.5 - 75%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery


Special Defense


252 SpA Life Orb Nihilego Sludge Bomb vs. 244 HP / 4+ SpD Tapu Fini: 143-172 (81.2 - 97.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 SpA Gengar Sludge Bomb vs. 244 HP / 4+ SpD Tapu Fini: 114-134 (64.7 - 76.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Koko Thunderbolt vs. 244 HP / 4+ SpD Tapu Fini: 120-143 (68.1 - 81.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252+ SpA Xurkitree Thunderbolt vs. 244 HP / 4+ SpD Tapu Fini: 152-180 (86.3 - 102.2%) -- 12.5% chance to OHKO
252+ SpA Porygon2 Thunderbolt vs. 244 HP / 4+ SpD Tapu Fini: 72-86 (40.9 - 48.8%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 SpA Life Orb Salazzle Sludge Bomb vs. 244 HP / 4+ SpD Tapu Fini: 133-156 (75.5 - 88.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 SpA Lilligant Leaf Storm vs. 244 HP / 4+ SpD Tapu Fini: 144-170 (81.8 - 96.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 244 HP / 4+ SpD Tapu Fini: 74-87 (42 - 49.4%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery


[/spoiler]

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Utility Support 

Tapu Fini @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 148 Def / 4 SpA / 76 SpD / 28 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Moonblast
- Scald / Ice Beam / Nature's Madness
- Taunt  / Heal Pulse / Swagger
- Protect

Milestones:
-Same Defensive Achievements

This set is similar to the Calm Mind set in terms of EVs, but note this Tapu Fini is meant to support the team with some of its utility options. As listed, Moonblast is the main STAB of choice for Tapu Fini given it hits most Pokemon neutrally. For the second slot, Scald is listed for its Water-type STAB, and to burn certain targets like Flying-/Levitating Pokemon, or once Misty Terrain runs out. Ice Beam is listed to hit Grass-, Flying-, and Dragon-type Pokemon like Garchomp, Salamence, or Tapu Bulu for super effective, though note the lack of Special Attack EVs in this set. If dealing chip damage is nessessary, then Nature's Madness is an alternative way to at least deal half or 50% of the target's current HP. Taunt is listed so Tapu Fini can prevent any form of setup from opposing Pokemon like Trick Room or Calm Mind. Heal Pulse is another cool option to for Tapu Fini as it can recover a partner's HP for about 50% and pairs well with Misty Terrain to prevent any status conditions. Finally a personal favorite, Tapu Fini can use "Safe-Swagger" on its own ally to raise their attack by two stages, though keep in mind the potential 15% chance to miss.

Offensive Calcs:
[spoiler]
Nothing Major.
[/spoiler]


Defensive Calcs

[spoiler]

See Above Set. Note the special side is slight more bulkier.
[/spoiler]

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Special Attacker

Tapu Fini @ Life Orb
Ability: Misty Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 28 HP / 236 SpA / 244 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Moonblast
- Scald / Hydro Pump
- Ice Beam / Calm Mind
- Protect

Here's a LO Tapu Fini set to allow itself to OHKO key targets like Garchomp, Salamence, Arcanine, Krookodile, and other targets for super effective damage. For coverage options, Moonblast and Scald can serve as decent options for Tapu Fini to run to hit most Pokemon for neutral. Hydro Pump is slashed for more damage than Scald, though the the accuracy is somewhat shaky. Finally Ice Beam can be used to hit opposing Grass-, and Flying-types which can be be somewhat problematic for Tapu Fini. If the damage output is somewhat lacking, Calm Mind can be used to give Tapu Fini an extra boost to its STAB options.


Offensive Calcs:
[spoiler]

236 SpA Life Orb Tapu Fini Moonblast vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp: 195-229 (106.5 - 125.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
236 SpA Life Orb Tapu Fini Moonblast vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Salamence: 203-242 (118.7 - 141.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
236 SpA Life Orb Tapu Fini Scald vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Arcanine: 174-205 (88.3 - 104%) -- 25% chance to OHKO
236 SpA Life Orb Tapu Fini Scald vs. 28 HP / 0 SpD Krookodile: 190-226 (109.1 - 129.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
236 SpA Life Orb Tapu Fini Moonblast vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Drampa: 182-218 (98.3 - 117.8%) -- 93.8% chance to OHKO


[/spoiler]

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Potential Teammates include, but aren't limited to:

• Steel Types - Covers Tapu Fini's weaknesses to Poison-types. (Ex. Magnezone, Metagross, Celesteela, Kartana, etc )
• Fire Types  - Covers Tapu Fini's weaknesses to Grass-types. ( Ex. Arcanine, Torkoal, Incineroar, Alolan Marowak, etc)
• Ground Types - Covers Fini's Electric weakness. (Ex. Mudsdale, Garchomp, Gastrodon, Krookodile, etc )
• Intimidate Support - Helps with Tapu Fini's Defensive bulk (Ex. Salamence, Arcanine, Krookodile, etc )
• Dragon-Types - Can help form a Defensive Synergy and cover key weaknesses (Garchomp, Drampa, Goodra, Salamence, etc)

Threats include, but aren't limited to:

• Electric-types - Tapu Koko, Alolan Raichu, Xurkitree, Magnezone, etc
• Grass-types - Tapu Bulu, Dhelmise, Whimiscott, Trevenant, etc
• Poison-types - Salazzle, Gengar, Nihilego, Alolan Muk, etc 
• Opposing Terrains - Tapus (Koko, Lele, Bulu) to remove Grassy Terrain. Also both Tapu Koko/Bulu can threaten for a knockout.

Other Notable Options

• Type-Reducing Berries to help Tapu Fini take a Super Effective hit. 
• Choice Specs set allows Tapu Fini to hit harder than its LO set. 
• Misty Seed can be used in conjuction with a CM / Defensive set
• Haze is a niche, but solid option for teams with any form of setup options such as Evoboost, CM, or Curse.

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Well then, that's all the Tapus covered for VGC. Hope you all enjoyed reading my rambling thoughts and will have another analysis up this Saturday. Stay tuned.

VGC 17 Analysis: Tapu Bulu

Dec 13th 2016

Deviant Art by LightDragon87

Alright today we'll be looking into one of the strongest Pokemon in the format who can hit like a freight train: Tapu Bulu. Now what makes Tapu Bulu threatening in this format? Looking at base stat totals, Tapu Bulu is rather bulky Grass/Fairy-type with a sizable 70 HP / 115 Def / 95 SpDef defensive stats paired with a high base 130 attack. Grass/Fairy-type is has its advantages in having key resistances to Dark-, Electric-, Fighting-, Grass-, Ground-, Water- and an immunity to Dragon-type. In terms of coverage options, Tapu Bulu struggles to maintain a decent movepool with only notable attack like STAB Wood Hammer, STAB Horn Leech, Rock Slide, Superpower, Sword Dance, Bulk Up, Leech Seed, and even its Signature move Nature's Madness. Guess Tapu Bulu has the coverage options to give itself a notable support roles like a SubSeed user or a setup Sword Dance / Bulk Up user in the format. So that's what Tapu Bulu does for VGC 17? Well not quite...

As one of the Tapu legends, Tapu Bulu's ability Grassy Surge allows it to activate the Grassy Terrain field conditions which has some interesting effects overall. First off, Tapu Bulu and all "grounded" Pokemon receive a 50% boost to all its Grass-type attacks. So basically we a Tapu who has a relatively strong STAB in Wood Hammer, potential setup moves, item choice, and now a 50% boost. Not only that, all grounded Pokemon on the field receive a 1/16th of their HP so Tapu Bulu has some passive recovery for up to 5 turns. As a final note, Grassy Terrain halves the damage of three Ground-type moves in Bulldoze, Magnitude, and yes the ever popular Earthquake. Essentially this makes Tapu Bulu's terrain effects one of the most interesting as it a serves both for offensive purposes, but also defensive by passive recovery of teammates and reducing the Ground-type weakness somewhat.

Not all is great for Tapu Bulu. Note the Grass/Fairy type which is has both great amount of weaknesses such as Fire-, Ice-, Steel-, Flying-, and even the quad weakness in Poison-type. Unless Tapu Bulu is invested, just about any Poison-type hit will be able to knock out the Grass legend. Note that Tapu Bulu has a moderately speed stat of base 75, meaning most targets can be able outspeed Tapu Bulu before it can get off. The lack of Fairy STAB really hurts Tapu Bulu's coverage options and note its limited movepool of just Grass, Rock, and Fighting coverage isn't enough.

Despite these flaws, Tapu Bulu has potential in due part of some key resistances and the ability to setup Grassy Terrain. Don't underestimate this Pokemon's power as Wood Hammer in Grassy Terrain can certainly hit like a truck. 

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TAPU BULU

Type: :grass: :fairy:
Base Stats: 75 HP / 130 Attack / 115 Defense /  85 Special Attack / 95 Special Defense / 75 Speed
Weaknesses:  :poison: x4 :steel: x2 :fire: x2  :ice: x2 :flying: x2
Resistances: :fighting:  x0.5 :electric: x0.5 :dark:  x0.5 :grass: x0.5 :ground: x0.5 :water:  x0.5
Immunities: :dragon:
Abilities: Grassy Surge - Summons Grassy Terrrain which in turn is active for 5 turns. Grassy Terrain increases the power of all Grass-type moves, gives 16th recovery, and halves the damage of select Ground-type moves. 

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 Physical Attacker

Tapu Bulu @ Miracle Seed / Grassium Z
Ability: Grassy Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 76 Atk / 116 Def / 4 SpD / 60 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Wood Hammer
- Swords Dance / Horn Leech
- Rock Slide  / Superpower
- Protect

Milestones:
- OHKOs 4 HP Garchomp with Grassy Terrain Miracle Seed Wood Hammer.
- Survives Garchomp's Poison Jab by 100% of the time.
-Outspeed base 80s without investment.

The following set is kinda of a standard Tapu Bulu set with some notable achievements here and there. To note, STAB Wood Hammer from Tapu Bulu is going to hurt any target who isn't resisted by this move. With the Miracle Seed, Tapu Bulu is strong enough to OHKO the likes of Garchomp with this attack and can deal massive damage to even Porygon2. Sword Dance is listed here as an option in case anyone wants to further augment Tapu Bulu's offensive pressure and do serious damage, if not OHKO even resisted frail targets. Horn Leech is a decent STAB move of choice to allow Tapu Bulu with further recovery along side Grassy Terrain. If the recoil damage from Wood Hammer is unappealing, Horn Leech can be a decent substitute for it, especially if using any form of setup like Sword Dance.

For other other coverage options, there's not much for Tapu Bulu to abuse from. Rock Slide is listed here to allow Tapu Bulu some coverage option against Fire-, Ice-, and Flying-type Pokemon. Do note that this will severely make Tapu Bulu checked easier by Steel-type Pokemon. If Steel- and Normal-type Pokemon are a concern for your team, Superpower can be used as a powerful Fighting-type coverage, but do note that Tapu Bulu's Attack and Defense will drop. As a final option, Grassium Z is listed here since pair this from Wood Hammer itself and the Grassy Terrain boost, well something's gonna get Bloom Doom.

For the EV spread, note the defensive EV's allows for Tapu Bulu to take at least one Poison Jab and retaliate with a Miracle Seed Boosted Wood Hammer. If the team has Intimidate support, the Defense investment can be allocated into either speed or attack for more offensive pressure. For anyone to get a sense of how hard Tapu Bulu can hit with it coverage moves, look at the following:


Offensive Calcs:
[spoiler]

Grassy Terrain-boosted Miracle Seed Wood Hammer with Adamant 76+ Atk EVs

76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp in Grassy Terrain: 186-220 (101.6 - 120.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Araquanid in Grassy Terrain: 192-226 (109.7 - 129.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Milotic in Grassy Terrain: 300-354 (148.5 - 175.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 68 Def Pelipper in Grassy Terrain: 168-198 (100.5 - 118.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Mimikyu in Grassy Terrain: 213-252 (131.4 - 155.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
-1 76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Gyarados in Grassy Terrain: 144-171 (84.7 - 100.5%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Marowak-Alola in Grassy Terrain: 82-97 (49.1 - 58%) -- 64.5% chance to 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 156 Def Eviolite Porygon2 in Grassy Terrain: 111-132 (57.8 - 68.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 208 Def Tapu Lele in Grassy Terrain: 178-211 (100.5 - 119.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko in Grassy Terrain: 205-243 (140.4 - 166.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 116 Def Tapu Bulu in Grassy Terrain: 72-85 (40.6 - 48%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Oranguru in Grassy Terrain: 148-175 (75.1 - 88.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery

Grassy Terrain-boosted Miracle Seed Horn Leech with Adamant 76+ Atk EVs

76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Milotic in Grassy Terrain: 188-224 (93 - 110.8%) -- 62.5% chance to OHKO
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp in Grassy Terrain: 118-139 (64.4 - 75.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Gigalith in Grassy Terrain: 182-216 (94.7 - 112.5%) -- 75% chance to OHKO
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Wishiwashi-School in Grassy Terrain: 182-216 (119.7 - 142.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
76+ Atk Miracle Seed Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko in Grassy Terrain: 129-153 (88.3 - 104.7%) -- 25% chance to OHKO

Grassy Terrain-boosted Bloom Doom with Adamant 76+ Atk EVs

76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Bloom Doom (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Oranguru in Grassy Terrain: 195-231 (98.9 - 117.2%) -- 93.8% chance to OHKO
76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Bloom Doom (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 156 Def Eviolite Porygon2 in Grassy Terrain: 145-172 (75.5 - 89.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
-1 76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Bloom Doom (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine in Grassy Terrain: 93-111 (47.2 - 56.3%) -- 0.4% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery
76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Bloom Doom (190 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Metagross in Grassy Terrain: 95-112 (60.8 - 71.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Bloom Doom (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Clefairy in Grassy Terrain: 172-204 (97.1 - 115.2%) -- 87.5% chance to OHKO


[/spoiler]


Defensive Calcs

[spoiler]
252 Atk Garchomp Poison Jab vs. 252 HP / 116 Def Tapu Bulu: 148-176 (83.6 - 99.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
252+ Atk Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 252 HP / 116 Def Tapu Bulu: 140-168 (79 - 94.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
4+ SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Tapu Bulu: 78-94 (44 - 53.1%) -- 0.4% chance to 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
252 SpA Pelipper Hurricane vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Tapu Bulu: 158-188 (89.2 - 106.2%) -- 31.3% chance to OHKO

252 Atk Pheromosa Poison Jab vs. 252 HP / 116 Def Tapu Bulu: 156-184 (88.1 - 103.9%) -- 18.8% chance to OHKO
[/spoiler]

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Bulk Up Attacker

Tapu Bulu @ Leftovers
Ability: Grassy Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 76 Atk / 4 Def / 180 SpD / 4 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Horn Leech
- Bulk Up
- Rock Slide / Substitute
- Protect

Another weird set for Tapu Bulu is this Bulk Up variant. The goal here is to setup on certain targets who either fear the potential of Tapu Bulu's STAB Grass-type attacks, or mons who can't deal too much notable damage back. Note the status move Bulk Up raises the user's Attack and Defense stats by one stage, allowing for Tapu Bulu to become a formidable physical tank. With the Grassy Terrain and Leftovers, essentially Tapu Bulu gets about 1/8th recovery for about 5 turns before the terrain expires or another Tapu switches in. Once setup, Tapu Bulu can deal damage with STAB Horn Leech to inflict replenish about 50% damage it deal from the opposing side. Note that Bulu has extensive amount of recovery options for allow for a Bulk Up set to work from the passive recovery of Grassy Terrain to the damage from Horn Leech. Even so, STAB Horn Leech is rather strong enough to deal some major damage after a +1 boost, especially if Grassy Terrain remains on the field. In terms of the last moves, Rock Slide can be opted to hit Fire-, Ice-, and Flying-type Pokemon Substitute is slashed to allow Tapu Bulu to setup Substitutes and take advantage of its newfound physical bulk.

Offensive Calcs
[spoiler]

+1 Horn Leech in Grassy Terrain 


+1 76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Milotic in Grassy Terrain: 236-278 (116.8 - 137.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp in Grassy Terrain: 145-172 (79.2 - 93.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
+1 76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Araquanid in Grassy Terrain: 150-177 (85.7 - 101.1%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
+1 76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Mimikyu in Grassy Terrain: 168-198 (103.7 - 122.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Gyarados in Grassy Terrain: 114-135 (67 - 79.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+1 76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Snorlax in Grassy Terrain: 198-234 (74.1 - 87.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
+1 76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 252 HP / 156 Def Eviolite Porygon2 in Grassy Terrain: 87-103 (45.3 - 53.6%) -- 1.6% chance to 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
+1 76+ Atk Tapu Bulu Horn Leech vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Wishiwashi-School in Grassy Terrain: 228-270 (150 - 177.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO

[/spoiler]

Defensive Calcs
[spoiler]

After one Bulk Up (Physical Defense) 
-252 Atk Garchomp Poison Jab vs. +1 244 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 112-132 (63.6 - 75%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery
-252 Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. +1 244 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 108-128 (61.3 - 72.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery
-252+ Atk Incineroar Flare Blitz vs. +1 244 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 122-146 (69.3 - 82.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery
-252+ Atk Metagross Meteor Mash vs. +1 244 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 102-122 (57.9 - 69.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery
-252+ Atk Snorlax Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. +1 244 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 80-96 (45.4 - 54.5%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery
-252+ Atk Mudsdale Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. +1 244 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 88-104 (50 - 59%) -- 17.2% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery
-252 Atk Kartana Smart Strike vs. +1 244 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 92-110 (52.2 - 62.5%) -- 71.5% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery

Special Bulk
-252+ SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 244 HP / 180 SpD Tapu Bulu: 82-98 (46.5 - 55.6%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery
-252 SpA Pelipper Hurricane vs. 244 HP / 180 SpD Tapu Bulu: 134-158 (76.1 - 89.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery
-20 SpA Porygon2 Ice Beam vs. 244 HP / 180 SpD Tapu Bulu: 64-76 (36.3 - 43.1%) -- 4.2% chance to 3HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery
-252 SpA Politoed Ice Beam vs. 244 HP / 180 SpD Tapu Bulu: 70-84 (39.7 - 47.7%) -- 94.6% chance to 3HKO after Leftovers recovery and Grassy Terrain recovery
-252 SpA Ninetales-Alola Blizzard vs. 244 HP / 180 SpD Tapu Bulu: 90-108 (51.1 - 61.3%) -- 89.1% chance to 2HKO after hail damage, Leftovers recovery, and Grassy Terrain recovery
[/spoiler]

---

Potential Teammates include, but aren't limited to:

• Steel Types - Covers Tapu Bulu's weaknesses to Poison-, Ice-, and Flying-type. (Ex Magnezone, Metagross, Celesteela, Kartana, etc)
• Fire Types  - Covers Tapu Bulu's Steel- and Ice weaknesses + reduces EQ damage from Grassy Terrain ( EX Arcanine, Torkoal, Incineroar, Alolan Marowak)
• Water Types - Give Tapu Bulu Partners to resist Fire-, an Ice-types. (Ex Milotic, Gyarados, Politoed, Aranaquid, etc )
• Ground Weak Mons - Grassy Terrain can cover for Earthquake spread damage.

Threats include, but aren't limited to:

• Steel-types- Metagross, Celesteela, Kartana, Magnezone, etc 
• Poison-types - Salazzle, Gengar, Nihilego, Alolan Muk, etc 
• Fire-types - Arcanine, Salazzle, Torkoal, etc
• Ice-types - Alolan Ninetales, Weavile, Alolan Sandslash, Vanilluxe etc. 
• Flying-types - Pelipper, Salamence, Talonflame, etc. 
• Intimidate Users. 
• Opposing Terrains - Tapus (Koko, Lele, Bulu) to remove Grassy Terrain, but aren't checks/counters at all. 

Other Notable Options

• Choice Scarf Set with Jolly 228 Speed EVs to outspeed base 130s. 
• Type-Reducing Berries to help Tapu Bulu take a Super Effective hit. 
• Choice Band set allows Tapu Bulu to start hitting stuff hard with Grass STABs. 

---

Well that took awhile to make. Will be off with another set analysis later this week.

VGC 17 Analysis: Salamence

WE DROPPIN' DRACOS


(Dec 9th 2017)

Deviant Art by mark331

Despite lost its Mega Evolution with the new VGC 17 rule change, Salamence is a strong Dragon/Flying-type not to be underestimated. Base on its stats, Salamence lives up to its Pseudo-Legendary status with an overall base 600 and an offensive potential of 135 Atk / 110 SpA / 100 Spe. Aside its rival Garchomp, Salamence is the second fastest Dragon-type Pokemon in the format outpacing everything below base 100 speed. This is allows Salamence to fire fast STAB Draco Meteors and Fire-type attacks against its targets dealing heavy damage to them. Even from a defensive standpoint, Salamence it no slouch with a 95 HP / 80 Def / 80 SpDef with key resistances to Fire/Water/Grass-types, and the Intimidate ability to drop the Attack stats of both opponents by one stage.

Note everything is clear skies for the Pseudo-Legendary as it has to contend with the rise of powereful Fairy-types (aka the Tapus), fastest threats (Garchomp, Alolan Ninetales), and the potential surprise super effective hits as usual. Note the goal for Salamence when using it is to act as both an Intimidate buffer to Pokemon it can surely take hits while retaliate with strong Dragon STABs. That said, Salamence is still a viable Dragon-type of choice for the current format, though keep in mind its strengths and weaknesses.

---

Type: :dragon: :flying:
Base Stats: 95 HP / 135 Attack / 80 Defense / 110 Special Attack / 80 Special Defense / 100 Speed
Weaknesses:  :ice:  x4 :steel: x2 :rock: x2 :dragon: x2
Resistances: :grass:  x0.25  :bug: x0.5  :fighting: x0.5 :fire:  x0.5 :water: x0.5
Immunities: :ground:
Abilitity: Intimdate - Reduces the target(s) attack by -1, or one stage.
Hidden Abilitity: Moxie - Raise Attack stat by one stage for every knock out.

---

Specs Attacker

Salamence @ Choice Specs
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 20 HP / 4 Def / 228 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe  (Timid)
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk  (or 31 if using EQ)
- Draco Meteor
- Flamethrower / Fire Blast
- Dragon Pusle
- Hydro Pump / Earthquake 

Good old Specs Salamence here. If anyone is wondering what's the set is meant to do, Specs Salamence is meant to act primary as a wall breaker and deal heavy damage to key targets such as Arcanine, Celesteela, Alolan Marowak, Gyarados, Garchomp, Pelipper, Torkoal, etc. With this Specs set, Salamence has enough coverage to hit most of the format with neutral coverage, though keep in mind what each move is meant for. STAB Specs Draco Meteor is the premier move of choice against any targets that's not resist or immune such as Steel- and Fairy-types. Any frail Pokemon without Focus Sash won't enjoy taking such STAB move from a base 110 SpA stat Salamence. If the -2 SpA drops is an issue, Dragon Pulse is decent STAB which can do moderate damage, though not exactly as strong as Draco Meteor.

For coverage moves, the choice of Fire-type move is up to Fire Blast or Flamethrower for Steel-, Bug-, Ice-, and Grass-types. Though Fire Blast is a stronger Fire-type move, it has the potential to miss while Flamethrower is a weak, but safe alternative. Though Hydro Pump is a strong Water-type STAB for Fire-, Water-, and Ground-type note it can miss as well. Though it seems weird to run on Specs, Earthquake is a nice surprise move to have for Electric-types like Alolan Raichu or Tapu Koko.

The EV Spread might look simple, it does allows Salamence to live a Life Orb Dragon Claw from Garchomp and a 6.3% chance for Specs Dazzling Gleam from Tapu Koko. Timid nature is used here let Salamence outspeed base 95 speed threats like Tapu Lele, Arcanine, or Silvally. Modest nature can be used for Salamence for greater damage output, though not the loss of the speed benchmark. In terms of its defense, Salamence's Intimidate ability allows it to live take physical hits even strong physical attacker like Tapu Bulu, Garchomp, Gyarados, etc.

Here's a list of offensive calculations to showcase Specs Salamence and show it can deal sizable damage against opposing Pokemon with Draco Meteor, Dragon Pulse, Fire Coverage, and Dragon Pulse. 

Offensive Calcs:

[spoiler]

Choice Specs Draco Meteor with 228 SpA EVs

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Marowak-Alola: 175-207 (104.7 - 123.9%)

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Arcanine: 175-207 (88.8 - 105%) -- 31.3% chance to OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Silvally: 153-180 (89.4 - 105.2%) -- 37.5% chance to OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Torkoal: 192-226 (108.4 - 127.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 28 HP / 0 SpD Krookodile: 195-229 (112 - 131.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Raichu-Alola: 166-196 (122.9 - 145.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados: 144-171 (84.7 - 100.5%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 44 HP / 4 SpD Porygon-Z: 181-214 (109 - 128.9%) -- guaranteed OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Araquanid: 115-136 (65.7 - 77.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 244 HP / 88 SpD Gastrodon: 154-183 (70.9 - 84.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Goodra: 138-164 (70 - 83.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Garchomp: 218-260 (101.3 - 120.9%) -- guaranteed OHKO (Note the AV)

Choice Specs Dragon Pulse with 228 Evs

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Dragon Pulse vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Arcanine: 115-136 (58.3 - 69%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Dragon Pulse vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Marowak-Alola: 115-136 (68.8 - 81.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Dragon Pulse vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp: 216-254 (118 - 138.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Dragon Pulse vs. 252 HP / 252+ SpD Pelipper: 85-102 (50.8 - 61%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Dragon Pulse vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Torkoal: 126-148 (71.1 - 83.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

Choice Specs Fire Blast with 228 EVs 

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Fire Blast vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Celesteela: 164-194 (80.3 - 95%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Fire Blast vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Metagross: 180-212 (96.2 - 113.3%) -- 75% chance to OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Fire Blast vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Bulu: 172-204 (97.1 - 115.2%) -- 81.3% chance to OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Fire Blast vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Dhelmise: 180-212 (101.6 - 119.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Fire Blast vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Decidueye: 164-194 (88.6 - 104.8%) -- 31.3% chance to OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Fire Blast vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Magnezone: 178-210 (100.5 - 118.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO


Choice Specs Flamethrower with 228 EVs 

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Celesteela: 134-158 (65.6 - 77.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Metagross: 146-174 (78 - 93%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Magnezone: 146-172 (82.4 - 97.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Bulu: 140-166 (79 - 93.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Dhelmise: 146-174 (82.4 - 98.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Decidueye: 136-160 (73.5 - 86.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO


Choice Specs Hydro Pump with 228 EVs

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Hydro Pump vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Mudsdale: 186-220 (89.8 - 106.2%) -- 37.5% chance to OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Hydro Pump vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Silvally-Ground Memory: 172-204 (100.5 - 119.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Hydro Pump vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Arcanine: 198-234 (100.5 - 118.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO

228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Hydro Pump vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Incineroar: 180-212 (89.1 - 104.9%) -- 31.3% chance to OHKO
228 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Hydro Pump vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Nihilego: 132-156 (71.3 - 84.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

[/spoiler]

Defensive Calcs:

[spoiler]

Physical Bulk (With Intimidate)[/align]

-1 252 Atk Life Orb Garchomp Dragon Claw vs. 20 HP / 4 Def Salamence: 143-172 (82.6 - 99.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

-1 252+ Atk Gyarados Ice Fang vs. 20 HP / 4 Def Salamence: 128-152 (73.9 - 87.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

-1 252+ Atk Thick Club Marowak-Alola Flare Blitz vs. 20 HP / 4 Def Salamence: 64-76 (36.9 - 43.9%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

-1 252+ Atk Gigalith Rock Slide vs. 20 HP / 4 Def Salamence: 84-102 (48.5 - 58.9%) -- 93.8% chance to 2HKO

-1 252 Atk Aerodactyl Rock Slide vs. 20 HP / 4 Def Salamence: 66-78 (38.1 - 45%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

-1 252+ Atk Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 20 HP / 4 Def Salamence in Grassy Terrain: 33-39 (19 - 22.5%) -- possible 5HKO

1 252 Atk Kartana Smart Strike vs. 20 HP / 4 Def Salamence: 61-73 (35.2 - 42.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

Special Bulk

252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Koko Dazzling Gleam vs. 20 HP / 4 SpD Salamence: 133-156 (76.8 - 90.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Koko Thunderbolt vs. 20 HP / 4 SpD Salamence in Electric Terrain: 144-172 (83.2 - 99.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

252 SpA Raichu-Alola Hidden Power Ice vs. 20 HP / 4 SpD Salamence: 136-160 (78.6 - 92.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

252+ SpA Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 20 HP / 4 SpD Salamence: 134-158 (77.4 - 91.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

[/spoiler]

---

Dragonium Z User

Salamence @ Dragonium Z
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 52 HP / 4 Def / 196 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Draco Meteor
- Flamethrower  / Fire Blast
- Substitute / Roar / Dragon Pulse
- Protect

Milestones:
- Outspeeds base 95 tiers and speed ties at 100
- Takes a Life Orb Jolly Garchomp 100% of the time.
- Survives LO Dazzling Gleam or Thunderbolt from Tapu Koko 100% of the time.
- Can make four potential Substitutes with HP Value.

Here we have a similar set akin to the Choice Specs Salamence from above with less damage output, though with the option to use its full moveset. Equipped with the Dragonium Z, Salamence essentially has "one" big nuke or heavy hit against one target. Unlike Dragon Gem Draco Meteor from gen 5 where the move itself will drop the user's Special Attack by -2, using Draco Meteor as the "base Z-Move" for Devastating Drake which now has 195 base power. Basically speaking its like having "one" Specs Draco Meteor ready to use, unless the user already has a -2 SpA drop from a previous attack without selecting a Z-Move. In short, this set allows Salamence to drop a Z-Move with the equivalent of a strong Specs Draco (mine everyone accurate), and have another one ready for use. To round out Salamence's coverage option, a Fire-type coverage like Flamethrower or Fire Blast can be use to hit Steel-, Grass-, Bug- and Ice-types Pokemon for SE damage. 

The last slot is essentially up to the player's choice. For this set in particular, Substitute is a way to get good positioning with Salamence in attempt to "bluff" a potential attack from the opponent. If Salamence can attain a Substitute up successfully, it can easily scout for an opponent's attack with Protect to maintain the sub, or use the Sub itself as cover to fire a Devastating Drake or Draco Meteor against the opponent. Roar might seem like a weird move to have, though it useful in two ways. Like in single battling, Roar can be used to "phaze" targets who attempt any setup, or stop opposing Trick Room setup. Remember Trick Room has a negative priority of -7 while Roar is -6, meaning the Trick Room user will get switched out for a random partner. If neither option suffice, well Dragon Pusle can be opted once again, though try to explore some options as well for Mence. 

The EVs here are similar to the above Salamence set, though with a bit of HP investment to if ever Salamence can setup 4 Substitutes. Note this set isn't much to deal massive damage, but attempt to get some kind of positioning going with Sub or Roar. That said the following damage calculations will feature only Devastating Drake, Draco Meteor, and Flamethrower. 

Offensive Calcs

[spoiler]

Devastating Drake ( 195 Base Power Z Move from Draco Meteor )

196 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Garchomp: 216-254 (100.4 - 118.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO

196 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Xurkitree: 186-219 (97.8 - 115.2%) -- 87.5% chance to OHKO

196 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Arcanine: 169-201 (85.7 - 102%) -- 12.5% chance to OHKO

196 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 244 HP / 88 SpD Gastrodon: 151-178 (69.5 - 82%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery

196 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Milotic: 118-139 (58.4 - 68.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery

196 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Muk-Alola: 142-168 (66.9 - 79.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

196 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados: 141-166 (82.9 - 97.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

196 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Marowak-Alola: 169-201 (101.1 - 120.3%) -- guaranteed OHKO

196 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 252 HP / 156+ SpD Oranguru: 103-123 (52.2 - 62.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

Draco Meteor (no boosts or at neutral)

196 SpA Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Arcanine: 114-135 (57.8 - 68.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery

196 SpA Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp: 216-254 (118 - 138.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO

196 SpA Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Goodra: 90-108 (45.6 - 54.8%) -- 45.3% chance to 2HKO

196 SpA Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 244 HP / 88 SpD Gastrodon: 102-120 (47 - 55.2%) -- 13.3% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery

Flamethrower 

196 SpA Salamence Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Metagross: 96-114 (51.3 - 60.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

196 SpA Salamence Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Celesteela: 88-104 (43.1 - 50.9%) -- 3.1% chance to 2HKO

196 SpA Salamence Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Magnezone: 96-114 (54.2 - 64.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

196 SpA Salamence Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Bulu: 92-110 (51.9 - 62.1%) -- 98% chance to 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery

[/spoiler]

---

Potential Teammates include, but aren't limited to:

• Steel Types - Allows Salamence to to cover against essentially all its main weaknesses in Fairy, Rock, Dragon, and Rock. (Ex. Celesteela, Metagross, Magnezone, etc.)
• Fairy Types - Most appreciate the Intimdate support and can deal with opposing Dragon-types. (Ex. Tapu Koko/Lele/Fini, Klefki, Sylveon, etc.)
• Fire Types - Can take resisted Fairy-type hits while deal with opposing Steel- and Ice-type Pokemo (Ex. Arcanine, Alolan Marowak, Torkoal, Salazzle, Incineroar, etc)
• Electric Types - Needed to deal with opposing bulky Water-types with likely Ice Beam. ( Tapu Koko, Alolan Raichu, Magnezone, Togedemaru, etc. )
• "Defensive" Pokemon - Intimidate can be useful to augment their defensive capabilities ( Porygon2, Celesteela, Tapu Bulu, Milotic, Gastrodon, etc.)

Threats include, but aren't limited to:

• Fairy-types such as Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, Alolan Ninetales, Tapu Fini, Clefable, etc
• Ice-types such as Alolan Ninetales, Weavile, Lapras, Vanilluxe, Alolan Sandslash, etc. 
• Rock-types such as Gigalith, Nihilego, Alolan Golem, etc.
• Coverage Moves consisting of Ice-, Dragon, Rock-, and Fairy-type moves.
• Trick Room.
• Powerful Special Attacks.

---

Other Notable Options

• Dragon Dance set with Moxie is potentially viable, though lacks a strong STAB to abuse like from its Mega
• Yache / Haban / Roseli / Charti Berry reduce the damage of any Ice-, Dragon-, Fairy, or Rock-type attacks. 
• Choice Scarf set ( Modest 236 EV) can outspeed Max Speed Pheromosa

---

Alright then, hopefully this suffice so will start getting sets up for this forum. Try out Salamence and don't worry if there's any deviations from it if you feel like it.

VGC 17 Moveset Analysis: Tapu Lele

(VGC 2017) Tapu Lele Moveset - Special Attacker


(Nov 28th, 2016)

Deviant Art by captainusop

Now that we've gotten a good idea of what Pokemon is "strong" in the early VGC format, we'll discuss one of the newest Legendary who's already made an impact: Tapu Lele. Looking at its base stats, Tapu Lele seems like a moderate strong Special Attacker with a high 130 SpA and decent 95 Spe. From an offensive perspective Tapu Lele has a great typing to abuse its base 130 Special Attack in Psychic / Fairy which essentially hits everything in the format that's not a Steel-type for neutral coverage at least. There are even some decent  coverage / support options Lele can run with access to Taunt, Calm Mind, Thunderbolt, and the new Fairy-type "super fang" in Nature's Madness. Now what would make this seemingly above average Psychic / Fairy special attacker even more strong? Well, how about a rather powerful ability...or terrain.

Tapu Lele is one of four Terrain summoner among the Tapu Quartet legends who can activate their respective field abilities for about five turns. Now what can this terrain be you might ask?  With the new ability Psychic Surge, Tapu Lele create a "psychic terrain" where the power of all Psychic-type moves are boosted by 50% and even blocks priority for all grounded Pokemon. Now we have a strong Psychic-type user who can essentially hit most of the format relatively hard with Psychic Terrain-boosted hits for absurd damage output. In addition to this, now that Psychic Terrain blocks almost all priority based moves, this covers Lele and its teammates from any revenge killing potential from moves like Bullet Punch or Extreme Speed.

Note not all things are good for Tapu Lele as its inhibits a low physical defenses compared to its special defense. Even so the rise of  Steel-, Poison-, and Ghost-types have made it difficult for Lele to operate as a offensive hitter, heck even it as to worry about random SE attack. Nevertheless, Tapu Lele is a major threat in the VGC 17 format with its powerful special attacks, as well as a meta-defining ability that forces players to work without priority hits.

---

Type: :psychic: :fairy:
Base Stats: 75 HP / 85 Attack / 75 Defense / 130 Special Attack / 115 Special Defense / 95 Speed
Weaknesses:  :poison: x2 :steel: x2 :ghost: x2
Resistances: :fighting:  x0.25  :psychic: x0.5
Immunities: :dragon:
Abilities: Psychic Surge - Summons Psychic Terrrain which in turn is active for 5 turns. Psychic Terrain increases the power of all Psychic-type moves and block priority for all "grounded" Pokemon. 

---

Fast Offensive Attacker

Tapu Lele @ Life Orb
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid / Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic / Psyshock
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam / Thunderbolt / HP Fire
- Protect

The following set is the standard Tapu Lele set with STABs + one coverage move. Factoring in the 50% boosts to its Psychic-type STAB attack and a high base 130 Special Attack, Tapu Lele has the potential to 2HKO most of the unresistant format with little effort. Psychic is the preferred choice for Tapu Lele for more damage output, though Psyshock can be opted to hit Pokemon on their low physical defense. Moonblast is Lele's strongest STAB Fairy-type move to hit opposing Dragon-, and Dark-types, who the latter is immune to its boosted Psychic Terrain-boosted hits.

The final "third" coverage move is entirely up to the player given their team structure, though here's some options. Dazzling Gleam lets Tapu Lele use a STAB Fairy-type spread move to hit both targets decently well. Thunderbolt can be use to hit Water- and Flying-type Pokemon like Pelipper, Celesteela, Gyarados, etc for S.E damage, or used to take advantage of the Electric Terrain boost from Tapu Koko. Lastly HP Fire can be used to hit Steel-types for moderate damage, but won't likely pickup the OHKO.

For the EV spread, a simple 4/ 252 / 252 set can suffice given the Life Orb damage will rack up and make it harder for Tapu Lele to take certain hits without proper support or investment. Timid nature is preferred so Tapu Lele can at least speed tie or outspeed those below base 95 speed. Modest nature can be used to allow Tapu Lele's Psychic attacks to hit further strong and can compromise speed for a bit of bulk.

To get a sense of just how powerful Tapu Lele hits with its Psychic Terrain boosted attack and other coverage moves, here's a list of offensive calculations. Note this is using a Life Orb 252 SpA Timid nature Lele using Psychic, Moonblast, and Dazzling Gleam.



Offensive Calcs:
[spoiler]

Psychic Terrain-boosted LO Psychic (idk why)

252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp in Psychic Terrain: 169-200 (92.3 - 109.2%) -- 56.3% chance to OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados in Psychic Terrain: 149-177 (87.6 - 104.1%) -- 25% chance to OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Koko in Psychic Terrain: 188-224 (129.6 - 154.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Bulu in Psychic Terrain: 157-187 (88.7 - 105.6%) -- 37.5% chance to OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Marowak in Psychic Terrain: 183-216 (109.5 - 129.3%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Drampa in Psychic Terrain: 164-192 (88.6 - 103.7%) -- 31.3% chance to OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Milotic in Psychic Terrain: 125-148 (61.8 - 73.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 76+ SpD Eviolite Porygon2 in Psychic Terrain: 90-107 (46.8 - 55.7%) -- 71.9% chance to 2HKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 156+ SpD Arcanine in Psychic Terrain: 138-164 (70 - 83.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Politoed in Psychic Terrain: 153-181 (77.6 - 91.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery

LO Moonblast

252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp: 242-283 (132.2 - 154.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Drampa: 229-273 (123.7 - 147.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Starmie: 121-142 (89.6 - 105.1%) -- 31.3% chance to OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 28 HP / 0 SpD Krookodile: 283-335 (162.6 - 192.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Salamence: 257-304 (150.2 - 177.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Multiscale Dragonite: 105-125 (63.2 - 75.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Goodra: 101-120 (51.2 - 60.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

LO Dazzling Gleam

252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Koko: 86-101 (59.3 - 69.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp: 151-179 (82.5 - 97.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 28 HP / 0 SpD Krookodile: 179-213 (102.8 - 122.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Pheromosa: 281-330 (192.4 - 226%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Alolan Raichu: 75-91 (55.1 - 66.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Lele: 60-71 (41.3 - 48.9%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

[/spoiler]

---

Bulky Offensive Attacker

Tapu Lele @ Psychic Seed / Psychium Z
Ability: Psychic Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 36 Def / 116 SpA / 4 SpD / 100 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Psychic
- Moonblast
- Taunt / Natures's Madness / Dazzling Gleam
- Protect

Milestones:
- Outspeeds neutral base 75
- Takes both LO Pheromosa's and Garchomp's Poison Jab and OHKOs back
-OHKOs 4 HP Garchomp with Moonblast
-Takes LO Nihilego's Sludge Bomb with the +1 SpD boost
-Can take a non-boosted Nihilego's Sludge Bomb with the Psychic Seed
-OHKOs Tapu Koko and Nihilego with Psychic with the Psychic Terrain boost

Though this set might seem experimental at best, there's has been a push for more defensive, or bulky variants of Tapu Lele. Here we have a one featuring a new item called Psychic Seed, which gives the user a +1 Special Defense boost when its Psychic Terrain. With Tapu Lele's rather high 115 Special Defense, this allows it to take on some of the stronger Special Attackers in the format, even living a LO hit from Nihilego's Sludge Bomb. Most of the EVs are diverted into HP and a bit of Defense so Tapu Lele can physical hits better, especially Super Effective hits like Poison Jab or Iron Head. In return, Tapu Lele can retaliate and get off one of its STAB options like Psychic Terrain-boosted Psychic, or use a coverage moves listed.

In terms of other options, Taunt is a great support move to block any potential setup strategies or status options the opponent tries to make. Like all the Tapus, Tapu Lele has access to a new move called Nature's Madness, which in turn is basically Super Fang. If the user is unsure about using one of its coverage move to deal heavy damage, Nature's Madness is a decent alternative to inflict vital chip for Lele's allies. Lastly Dazzling Gleam is a decently strong STAB Fairy coverage which can be used to pick off weaken foes.

Keep in mind since this Tapu Lele set is meant to be a bulky, it won't immediately OHKO things like its Life Orb / Choice Specs variants can. The goal of this Tapu Lele is to stick around the battle field as long as possible while dealing heavy damage to the opponent. To improve the set's effectiveness, Intimidate  (and even Will-O-Wisp) users like Arcanine can lower the Attack stats of a target by one stage, while ensure Lele can take physical attacker better. Snarl users like Alolan Persian, Arcanine, Mandibuzz, etc can further allow Tapu Lele to tank special hits considerably even with the Psychic Seed boost.

If for some reason you want "power" from this set, well equip Tapu Lele with a Psychium Z and just everything that's not Dark or Steel insanely hard with Shattered Psyche. Remember that this move will be boosted by the Psychic Terrain as well, making this a deadly attack to almost anything. Just know like a Z-Moves, Tapu Lele can use this once in battle. Don't worry about "wasting" this Z-Move on a "Protect" user, as they'll still take some moderate damage despite the quartered effectiveness.


Offensive Calcs
[spoiler]

Psychic

116+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Koko in Psychic Terrain: 145-172 (100 - 118.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Xurkitree in Psychic Terrain: 153-180 (96.2 - 113.2%) -- 75% chance to OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Marowak in Psychic Terrain: 138-163 (102.2 - 120.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Nihilego in Psychic Terrain: 186-218 (100.5 - 117.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Milotic in Psychic Terrain: 96-114 (47.5 - 56.4%) -- 28.9% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Mudsdale in Psychic Terrain: 130-154 (62.8 - 74.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados in Psychic Terrain: 115-136 (67.6 - 80%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

Moonblast

116+ SpA Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp: 186-218 (101.6 - 119.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 28 HP / 0 SpD Krookodile: 218-258 (125.2 - 148.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Drampa: 176-210 (95.1 - 113.5%) -- 75% chance to OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Salamence: 194-230 (113.4 - 134.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO


Shattered Psyche (175 Base Power Z - Move from Psychic)

116+ SpA Tapu Lele Shattered Psyche (175 BP) vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados in Psychic Terrain: 222-262 (130.5 - 154.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Shattered Psyche (175 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Wishiwashi-School in Psychic Terrain: 172-204 (113.1 - 134.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Shattered Psyche (175 BP) vs. 252 HP / 156+ SpD Arcanine in Psychic Terrain: 204-240 (103.5 - 121.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Shattered Psyche (175 BP) vs. 252 HP / 76+ SpD Eviolite Porygon2 in Psychic Terrain: 130-154 (67.7 - 80.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Shattered Psyche (175 BP) vs. +1 4 HP / 0 SpD Porygon-Z in Psychic Terrain: 190-225 (118 - 139.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Shattered Psyche (175 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Milotic in Psychic Terrain: 186-220 (92 - 108.9%) -- 56.3% chance to OHKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Shattered Psyche (175 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Celesteela in Psychic Terrain: 111-131 (54.4 - 64.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
116+ SpA Tapu Lele Shattered Psyche (175 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Oranguru in Psychic Terrain: 102-121 (51.7 - 61.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO


[/spoiler]


Defensive Calcs
[spoiler]


252 SpA Nihilego Sludge Bomb vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Tapu Lele: 134-162 (75.7 - 91.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Salazzle Sludge Bomb vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Tapu Lele: 122-146 (68.9 - 82.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Life Orb Garchomp Poison Jab vs. 252 HP / 36 Def Tapu Lele: 146-172 (82.4 - 97.1%) -- guaranteed
252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 36 Def Tapu Lele in Psychic Terrain: 76-91 (42.9 - 51.4%) -- 6.3% chance to 2HKO
252 Atk Life Orb Pheromosa Poison Jab vs. 252 HP / 36 Def Tapu Lele: 148-177 (83.6 - 100%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
252 SpA Celesteela Flash Cannon vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Tapu Lele: 108-128 (61 - 72.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO


[/spoiler]

---

Choice Scarfer

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
- Moonblast
- Dazzling Gleam
- Thunderbolt

The following set is a Choice Scarf set almost remeniscent of Scarf Gardevoir back in VGC 14 regarding a "fast" Fairy-type attacker. With its base 95 Speed, this doesn't a big deal for Tapu Lele, however getting a straight knockout into something like Tapu Koko with a STAB Psychic / Moonblast can surely be a suprise for the opponent. Essentially the goal of this set is to "bluff" the Scarf from Tapu Lele and ensure its not "noticed" by the opponent or hinted. If Tapu Lele can is played accordingly, it can be used to get suprised kills, or even so maintain offensive pressure against the opponent.

In terms of moveslots, Psychic and Moonblast are the main primary choice for Tapu Lele as both are relatively strong special attack which hit most of the format relatively hard. Given Tapu Lele receives a 50% boost in its Psychic attack, it should be enough to pick off an unresisted target. Moonblast can be used to hit any Dark-, Fighting-, or notable Dragon-types on the field. Dazzling Gleam can be quite effective to dealing STAB spread damage against weaken Pokemon, even helpful during late game. Finally Thunderbolt is used to hit Water-,and Flying-types like Celesteela and Gyarados hard.

In terms of speed output, not this Modest Scarf Tapu Lele can outspeed most target from up to +1 base 80, or notably a Dragon Danced boosted Jolly Gyarados. If Pheromosa is a concern for the team, note that Tapu Lele can just about 172 Speed EVs with Timid Nature. Here are some following Damge Calcs for Scarf Modest Tapu Lele.



Offensive Calcs:
[spoiler]

Psychic Terrain-boosted Psychic


236+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp in Psychic Terrain: 142-168 (77.5 - 91.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados in Psychic Terrain: 126-148 (74.1 - 87%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Koko in Psychic Terrain: 160-189 (109.5 - 129.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Bulu in Psychic Terrain: 133-157 (75.1 - 88.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Marowak-Alola in Psychic Terrain: 153-180 (91.6 - 107.7%) -- 43.8% chance to OHKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Drampa in Psychic Terrain: 136-162 (73.5 - 87.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Milotic in Psychic Terrain: 106-126 (52.4 - 62.3%) -- 99.6% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery


Moonblast


236+ SpA Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp: 204-240 (111.4 - 131.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Starmie: 102-120 (75.5 - 88.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 28 HP / 0 SpD Krookodile: 236-278 (135.6 - 159.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Salamence: 212-252 (123.9 - 147.3%) -- guaranteed OHKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Moonblast vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Goodra: 84-102 (42.6 - 51.7%) -- 4.3% chance to 2HKO

 Dazzling Gleam


236+ SpA Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Koko: 70-84 (47.9 - 57.5%) -- 90.2% chance to 2HKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp: 126-150 (68.8 - 81.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 28 HP / 0 SpD Krookodile: 150-176 (86.2 - 101.1%) -- 12.5% chance to OHKO
236+ SpA Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Pheromosa: 236-278 (161.6 - 190.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO

236+ SpA Tapu Lele Dazzling Gleam vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Lele: 51-60 (35.1 - 41.3%) -- guaranteed 3HKO


[/spoiler]

---

Potential Teammates include, but aren't limited to:

• Intimidate users - Covers Tapu Lele's low defenses to add survivability. (Ex Arcanine, Krookodile, Salamence, Gyarados, etc).
• Ground Types - Deals with Poison- / Steel-type Pokemon. (Ex: Krookodile, Garchomp, Mudsdale, etc)
• Psychic Types - Appeciate boosted STABS ( Metagross, Starmie ) 
• Steel Types - Are immune to Poison hits ( Metagross, Celesteela, Magnezone)
• Trick Room / Offensive teams who appreciate the "prioirty" buffer from Psychic Terrain. 
• Speed Control to allow Tapu Lele to outspeed targets around of above base 95. 

---

Threats include, but aren't limited to:

• Steel-types- Metagross, Celesteela, Kartana, Magnezone, etc 
• Poison-types - Salazzle, Gengar, Nihilego, Alolan Muk, etc 
• Ghost-types Moves - Gengar, Alola Marowak, Mimikyuu, etc 
• Fire-types - Arcanine, Salazzle, Torkoal, etc
• Coverage Moves consisting of Steel, Poison, and Ghost moves. 
• Opposing Terrains - Tapus (Koko, Lele, Bulu) to remove Psychic Terrain. 
• Strong physical attacks

---

Other Notable Options

• Defensive Calm Mind set (Can be made max defense) 
• Kebia / Babiri / Kasib Berry to reduce the damage of any Poison-, Steel-, or Ghost-type attacks. 
• Choice Specs set will nuke any non resistent target with STAB Psychic / Moonblast

---

Well that about does it for me for now, so cya

VGC 17 Moveset Analysis: Tapu Koko

(Nov 30th 2016)

Deviant Art by albrt-wlson

Following its reveal before Pokemon Sun and Moon, Tapu Koko was viewed as of of the many potential new threats in the VGC 17 format. Judging by its offensive stats, Tapu Koko has a blistering base 130 speed marking it down as one the fastest natural Pokemon. Both Attack and Special Attack from Tapu Koko seem mediocre-to-decent at best at 115 and 95 respectively, though not as intermediate strong. On its typing, Electric- / Fairy-type is strong offensive to most of the VGC 17 format with STAB Thunder Bolts / Dazzling Gleams. Despite the average base 70 HP / 85 Def / 75 SpD, Tapu Koko's typing lets it resist up to five types and one immunity. Looking at its movepool, Tapu Koko has some interesting coverage options like Thunderbolt, Dazzling Gleam, Wild Charge, Roost, Calm Mind, Taunt, Grass Knot, Sky Drop, and the new Fairy-type Super Fang clone in Nature's Madness. Despite having a fast 130 speed stat, Tapu Koko average attacking stats and limited movepool seem to hold it back from being a viable fast sweeper, except when looking into its ability.

With Tapu Koko's Electric Surge ability, it can summon the Electric Terrain field effect, which lasts for about 5 turns. For as long as Electric Terrain is on the field, all "grounded" Pokemon receive a 1.5x multipier boost into their Electric-type moves and prevents any Pokemon from being put to sleep. To put this into perspective of how strong Tapu Koko's Electric Terrain-boosted Electric STABs are, they are essentially receiving a Specs or Band boost as well. Thanks to its base 130 speed, Tapu Koko can get off the first attack most of the time and hit targets with its powerful Electric Terrain STAB Wild Charge, Thunderbolts, or Discharges against its foes. To top this off, Electric Terrain activates Surge Surfer for Alolan Raichu, one of Tapu Koko's best partners who now has a double speed and threaten and Poison-types on the field.

Note not everything goes well for our fellow Electric / Fairy type as their are some notable issues. Aside its average defenses, Tapu Koko's rather mediocre offense stats force it to rely on Electric Terrain-boosted STABs to pick up OHKOs. Tapu Koko lacks a strong Fairy-type STAB for itself like Moonblast or Play Rough, with Dazzling Gleam near mandatory to run. Now with Lightening Rod users such as Alolan Marowak gaining popularity, Tapu Koko have to consider using attacks like Discharge, or relying on their partners to knock these Pokemon out, otherwise rendering its Electric-type attacks useless. As touched on multiple times, the average defense capabilities lets any Ground-type, Electric-type, or a powerful STAB attack from OHKOing the frail Guardian Deity. On a final note, there are three other Tapus who can remove the Electric Terrain with their own and threaten Tapu Koko as well.

Even so, Tapu Koko remains as one of the dangerous cleaners in the VGC 17 as its potential to hit targets with powerful Electric-Terrain boosted attacks makes it a threat. Even if it fails to OHKO key targets, Tapu Koko can serve as a strong late-game who can pick off weaken targets thanks to its fast speed stat. In short, for as long as Tapu Koko is on the field with its Electric Terrain effect, it can prove difficult to beat.



Tapu Koko

Type: Electric Fairy
Base Stats: 75 HP / 115 Attack / 85 Defense / 95 Special Attack / 75 Special Defense / 115 Speed
Weaknesses:  Poison (x2) Ground (x2)
Resistances:  Fighting x0.5  Bug x0.5 Electric x0.5  Dark x0.5 Flying x0.5
Immunities: Dragon
Abilities: Electric Surge - Summons Electric Terrrain which in turn is active for 5 turns. Electric Terrain increases the power of all Electric-type moves and prevents sleep status for all "grounded" Pokemon.



Fast Offensive Attacker

Tapu Koko @ Life Orb / Choice Specs / Electrium Z / Focus Sash
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid / Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk / 30 Def
- Thunderbolt / Discharge
- Dazzling Gleam
- Hidden Power [Ice] / Discharge / Volt Switch / Nature's Madness
- Protect

At the moment, this is one of the standard variants of Tapu Koko which run either the Life Orb, Choice Specs, or even the Electrium Z. Starting with the STAB options, Thunderbolt with the Electric Terrain boost can hit most of the format rather hard thanks to the 50% boost. Pretty much unless the target is heavily invest with Special Defense or has a Wacan Berry, Tapu Koko can OHKO almost any Water-, and Flying-type out the field. Alternatively for Thunderbolt, Discharge can be utilize to bypass Alolan Marowak's Discharge and has a 30% to paralyze each two targets. Dazzling Gleam serves as Tapu Koko's answer to any Dragon-, Dark-, and Fighting-type Pokemon on the field, though notable weaker than its boosted Electric STABs.

For the third slot, Tapo Koko has a choice between Hidden Power Ice, Discharge, Volt Switch, and Nature's Madness. HP Ice is used to deal with quad weak Dragons or similar typing, though note these attacks won't pick up the OHKO. For instance, a Modest LO HP Ice isn't even a 100% OHKO on a Garchomp, who in turn could have bulk investment or a Yache Berry to retaliate back with an EQ. Once again Discharge is listed down to avoid getting locked down by Lightening Rod users such as Alolan Marowak. Volt Switch allows Tapo Koko to deal damage while get the switch initiative with its fast speed to pivot out for terrain advantage. Finally Nature's Madness can reduce the target's HP by 50%, though avoid using this with the Life Orb item.

For the EV spread, usually most sets are either 4 / 252 / 252 given Tapu Koko is a rather frail and Life Orb recoil can stack over time. Natures is usually between whether the players want to speed tie with opposing Tapo Kokos with Timid, or get extra damage from Modest. Item selection here is somewhat negotiable with Life Orb, Choice Specs, or even the Electrium Z. Life Orb allows Tapu Koko to select between moves with an increased 1.3x boost in its attacks, though receives a 10% decreases in HP every time it attacks. Choice Specs allow Tapu Koko to get another 1.5x boost in its Electric STABs to hit harder, though it will be locked into one move. Electrium Z can suffice to hit a target in Electric Terrain incredibly hard and serve as an alternative if both Life Orb and Specs are held by other teammates. If Tapu Koko needs to take one threatening hit, then Focus Sash can allow it to withstand a potential Z-Move attack or super effective hit such as Garchomp's Earthquake.


Mixed Attacker

Tapu Koko @ Life Orb
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 156 Atk / 100 SpA / 252 Spe
Hasty Nature
- Wild Charge
- Thunderbolt  / Sky Drop
- Dazzling Gleam / HP Ice
- Protect

While most standard Tapo Koko sets are fully special, remember its base 115 Attack is still respectable to utilize especially with the Electric Terrain boost. This set acts as somewhat of a lure to OHKO or deal heavy damage to things like Nihilego, Milotic (with a special defense boost), Lapras, Politoed, and other specially defensive / AV users who can take a Thunderbolt, but instead get hit with Wild Charge. Will like to point out that Wild Charge will do more damage than Thunderbolt given how Tapo Koko has a higher attack stat to utilize. For the other two options, Tapu Koko can run either Thunderbolt / Discharge, Dazzling Gleam, HP Ice, or Sky Drop. Once again, Thunderbolt / Discharge is up in the air, but it depends whether Lightening Rod Marowak is a threat to the team. Dazzling Gleam hits somewhat less, but it is Tapo Koko's best way to deal damage against Dragon-, Dark-, and Fighting-type Pokemon. Sky Drop is an interesting choice here as it allows Tapo Koko to grab a Pokemon and take it out of play for one turn before finishing its attack the next. With its base 130 speed, Tapu Koko can surely Sky Drop most Pokemon that isn't too heavy for it to carry. Lastly HP Ice is here to hit quad weak Dragons, Grass-, and Ground-types.


Fast Assault Vest



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
- Dazzling Gleam
- Volt Switch
- Nature's Madness / Hidden Power Ice / Hidden Power Fire

Milestones:
- Has a 6.3% chance to be OHKOed by Z-Hydro Pump from Golduck in Rain
- Withstands one EQ from Garchomp.
- Outspeeds base 110 Pokemon like Gengar.

It might sound odd to have an Assault Vest on a frail Pokemon such as Tapu Koko, but the idea here is to help improve the opposing matchups to weather-based teams such as Rain- and a Sun-based teams. The investment allows Tapu Koko to withstand either one Earthquake from Garchomp, or Z-Hydro Pump from Golduck in Rain, which is enough to retaliate back. With the Assault Vest, Tapu Koko can take some the stronger special attacks in the format in attempts to pivot itself around with Volt Switch, or deal damage with its coverage options. For STAB, Electric Terrain-boosted Thunderbolt is Tapu Koko's STAB option of choice to hit opposing Water- and Flying-types such as Tapu Fini, Celesteela, Gyarados, Pelipper, etc relatively hard. STAB Dazzling Gleam is Tapu Koko's main Fairy-type move for Dragon-, Fighting-, and Dark-type Pokemon, though considerably weaker to the Specs or Life Orb options. Volt Switch allows Tapu Koko to pivot around the opposing team, possibly in response for a switch in. The last moveslot is entirely up to the player's needs. Nature's Madness makes up for Tapu Koko's lack of damage output by dealing 50% to any target Pokemon, but can miss. Hidden Power Ice or Fire is mainly there to hit either Garchomp or Kartana. Keep in mind, HP Ice does fail to net the OHKO on Chomp, and while Kartana is OHKOed by HP Fire, Assault Vest sets can withstand this.


Calm Mind Setup

Tapu Koko @ Electric Seed
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 84 Def / 20 SpA / 4 SpD / 156 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam / HP Ice
- Calm Mind
- Roost

Miletstones:
-Survives STAB EQ from Garchomp/Mudsdale with +1 Def (Electric Seed)
-Outspeed Salazzle by two points.
- Can 2OHKO most neutral targets after one CM boost

The idea of this Tapu Koko set is to setup against targets that normally fear it such as Water-, Dragon-, Flying- types, etc. To those asking what does Electric Seed do, well it increases the the defense of a Pokemon by one stage, if under Electric Terrain. Essentially this allows Tapu Koko to tank a STAB Earthquake even from the likes of Garchomp and Mudsdale, which is a huge improvement. Intimidate support is ideal for this Tapu Koko set as it can further take physical hits better than before. In terms of the moveslot, Thunderbolt and the choice of HP Ice / Dazzling Gleam are the ideal attacking moves, though watch out for any Pokemon who resist BoltBeam, or Tapu Koko's STABs. Calm Mind and Roost is the crux of this main setup as it allows Tapu Koko to boost its Special Attack and Special Defense to become a special tank. Once boosted, Tapu Koko can either attack with either of the following attacks, or use Roost to recover back HP. Once boosted Tapu Koko can hit most targets relatively hard with its attacks, but know that the Electric Terrain boosts will fade away after 5 turns as it gradually setups.


Potential Teammates include, but aren't limited to:

Alolan Raichu - Gains double the speed with Surge Surfer activated and threatens Poison types.
Electric Types - Receives 1.5x boost in STABs Electric hits ( Alolan Raichu, Xurkitree, Vikavolt, Alolan Golem, etc)
Intimidate Users - Lowers damage output for physical attackers ( Gyarados, Krookodile, Salamence, etc)
Psychic Types - Threatens Poison-type Pokemon for Tapo Koko ( Tapu Lele, Metagross, Alolan Raichu, Starmie, etc)
Water Types - Threatens most Ground-type Pokemon (Gyarados, Starmie, Tapu Fini, Gastrodon, Milotic, etc)
Steel Types - Beats opposing Fairy-types (Kartana, Celesteela, Metagross, Magnezone)
Ground Types - Beats opposing "Lightening Rod" users like Alolan Marowak while takes Discharge well. ( Garchomp, Gastrodon, Mudsdale, etc )
Rain - Overpowers opposing Ground-, Rock-, and Fire-types (Politoed, Pelipper, etc)


Threats include, but aren't limited to:

Poison-Types - Salazzle, Gengar, Nihilego, Alolan Muk, etc
Ground-Types - Garchomp, Krookodile, Mudsdale, Gastrodon
Grass-Types - Tapu Bulu, Parasect, Trevenant
Lightening Rod - Alolan Marowak, Togedemaru
Coverage Moves consisting of Poison- and Ground-type moves.
Opposing Terrains - Tapus (Bulu, Lele, Fini) to remove Electric Terrain.
Trick Room-Based Teams (Torkcoal, Oranguru, Drampa, etc)
Overall Strong Attacks as Tapu Koko has average defenses.


Other Notable Options

Air Balloon and Shuca Berry to mitigate the damage done by Earthquake.
A Fully Physical Offensive Tapu Koko can be opted.
A Defensive Screen Sets suggested by Jamesspeed in his video.
An Assault Vest Tapu Koko set suggested by Wolfey in his video.

Two down, Two to go. After covering the Tapus, does anyone want me to do an overview of the a certain mon/core? If so post down below. In addition, anyone is welcome to suggest/post sets, or leave discussion about Tapu Koko in the comments below.